Delineation of the Luvuvhu Headwater Catchment using high-resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs)

Abstract

Hydrological studies pivot on the proper understanding of the drainage system that is under investigation. It is imperative to delineate the catchment and better visualise the area, especially in headwater catchment assessments. Advances in technology have improved how catchments are delineated and visualised. This has become integral to understanding how the river system is distributed and the basis for hydrological studies. Against this background, this research delineated the Luvuvhu Headwater Catchment (LHC) using high-resolution Digital Elevation Models (DEMs). The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) Global DEMs with a cell size of 30m resolution were used. Four DEMs covering the study area were mosaicked before analysis and processed to 10m x 10m resolution. The research results were compared against the conventionally used maps in similar studies. The delineated map showed a highly defined stream network that was more detailed than the previously used maps. The use of high-resolution DEMs thus produced a detailed stream distribution of the LHC. Coupling catchment delineation with ground-truthing will enhance the understanding and sustainable management of headwater catchments.