Stream Network Modelling from Aster GDEM Using ArcHydro GIS: Application to the Upper Moulouya River Basin (Eastern, Morocco)

Abstract

This paper discusses the integration between GIS and hydrological models and presents a case study relating to the upper section of Moulouya River Basin (UMRB) situated in the east of Morocco. The Basin is an inland watershed with a total area of approximately 10,000 km 2 , stretching in the junction between the Middle Atlas, the High Atlas Mountain and the Middle Moulouya basin. From ArcGIS ArcHydro framework data models, different parameters of the Moulouya River and its catchment area have been defined. DEM based ArcHydro model was run on Aster-GDEM V2 data at a horizontal spatial resolution of 30 meters. Several raster and vector products of the Upper Moulouya River and its catchment area have been defined at the end of the model. Final results of the models were discussed and compared with the reality. These results can be used in baseline for advanced hydrology and geomorphology research on the catchment area. They can support for decisionmaking on ground and surface water resource, distribution and management.