Determination of Groundwater Potential Using WetSpa Hydrological Model, GIS and RS Techniques and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) (Case Study: Balukhluchay Watershed, Ardabil)

Due to the importance of groundwater potential maps in exploration, exploitation and management of groundwater resources, groundwater potential map of Balukhluchay watershed was prepared in this study. Therefore, 6 criteria along with12 sub-criteria, that affect infiltration and groundwater recharge, were used. Criteria and sub-criteria maps were prepared in raster format using existing base maps, WetSpa hydrological model and also RS and GIS techniques. Criteria and sub-criteria weights were determined using analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and groundwater potential map was prepared by combination of criteria and sub-criteria maps based on assigned weights. Results showed that 10.53 and 14.61 percents of the studied area had high and good groundwater potential respectively which were located in eastern and south-western part of watershed and were in relation with permeable rocks and low slope. Also, more than 50 percent of the area had low groundwater potential which was in relation with low-permeable rocks located in steep mountainous hills.