Catchment Area
Definition
A Catchment Area, in GIS and hydrology, refers to the geographic region from which rainfall and surface water flow into a single river, lake, or reservoir. This natural drainage boundary is crucial for water resource planning, flood risk assessment, and environmental monitoring. It may also refer to the area served by a service facility, such as a hospital or school, in demographic or urban planning contexts.
Application
Catchment areas are used in hydrological modeling, watershed management, infrastructure planning, and environmental impact studies. In urban analysis, they help define service zones for utilities, education, and retail accessibility. Tools like flow accumulation and terrain models help identify and delineate catchment boundaries using digital elevation data.
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of identifying a catchment area in GIS?
Identifying catchment areas helps manage water flow, predict flooding, and allocate services based on geographic influence zones.
2. What is the purpose of identifying a catchment area in GIS?
Using DEMs, flow direction, and accumulation algorithms, GIS identifies natural drainage boundaries and contributing surface areas.
3. What is the purpose of identifying a catchment area in GIS?
Yes, due to land use change, urban development, or natural events like landslides or erosion.
4. What is the purpose of identifying a catchment area in GIS?
Hydrology, civil engineering, urban planning, agriculture, and public health sectors use catchment analysis for strategic planning.
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