Application of a hierarchical multi-scale framework to delineating spatial units of watersheds (Case study: theTil-abad Watershed, Golestan Province)

To characterize and to assess all the complexities and to develop river ecosystem management plans, it is needed that all components at different spatial and temporal scales to be considered. In this regard, a hierarchical multi scale framework has been applied as a flexible, open ended approach to conduct hydro-morphological assessment and also to support river basin managers through exploring the causes of hydro-morphological management problems and devising sustainable solutions. The framework has been suggested by REFORM Project (REstoringrivers FOR effective catchment Management). Generally, the hydro-morphological assessment framework and management plan cycle in river basins consists of four main steps as: 1) Delineation and characterization of spatial units; (2) Hydro-morphological assessment of past, current and future trends; 3) Identification and prioritization of pressures and 4) Developing management plan and implementing measures for restoration and rehabilitation. Based on the interim results of an ongoing PhD research program, this paper focuses on the first step in the framework for the Til-abad Watershed in Golestan Province, North of Iran.

Remote sensing techniques and the GIS environment complemented by a series of field surveys, and some data and information on hydrology, climate, topography, geology and land cover, valley characteristics, and channel and floodplain morphology were utilized to divide the river system into internally consistent spatial units including bio-geographical regions, catchments, landscapes, river segments, river reaches and geomorphic units.

Based on the above-mentioned methodological framework, the hierarchy of spatial units in the study area contains two units of bio-geographical region, one unit of catchment, four units of landscape, eight segments units and 26 Reach units.

The results of this research has important contributions to systemic hydro-morphological assessment and development of management plans in the Til-abad Watershed by increasing process understanding and by providing descriptions on the characteristics and the relationship between different spatial units. This hierarchical multi-scale framework has the applicability and generalizability to other river basins in Iran formulating the integrated assessment and management practices. Based on the above-mentioned methodological framework, the hierarchy of spatial units in the study area contains two units of bio-geographical region, one unit of catchment, four units of landscape, eight segments units and 26 Reach units. The results of this research has important contributions to systemic hydro-morphological assessment and development of management plans in the Til-abad Watershed by increasing process understanding and by providing descriptions on the characteristics and the relationship between different spatial units. This hierarchical multi-scale framework has the applicability and generalizability to other river basins in Iran formulating the integrated assessment and management practices.