Estimation of Groundwater Recharge Using GIS Based Wetspass-M Model: The Case of Dedaba Watershed, Rift Valley Lakes Basin, Ethiopia

Abstract

The Dedaba watershed, located within the Rift Valley Lakes Basin in Oromia, Ethiopia, is experiencing significant changes driven by agricultural expansion, land use and land cover (LULC) changes, and a growing population. These dynamics, combined with insufficient watershed management, have resulted in water resource depletion, pollution, and environmental degradation. The escalating demand for groundwater, driven by the population increase, present a considerable challenge in this region. This study utilized the WetSpass-M (Water and Energy Transfer between Soil, Plants, and Atmosphere under quasi Steady State – Monthly) model, a spatially-distributed water balance model, to assess seasonal and annual groundwater recharge, actual evapotranspiration, and surface runoff in the Dedaba watershed. The model integrates spatially distributed data on precipitation, potential evapotranspiration, temperature, wind speed, soil types, LULC, and topography. These datasets, processed using GIS techniques, allowed for the generation of detailed spatial water balance components. Calibration and validation of the model were conducted using observed groundwater levels and streamflow data, ensuring accurate simulations. The calibrated WetSpass-M model revealed groundwater recharge estimates ranging from 0.46 to 65.4 mm/year, with an average of 37.47 mm/year, representing 3.4% of the total recharge. To understand the impacts of LULC changes on groundwater recharge, the model was applied using LULC data from 1990 and 2020. Results indicated a continuous decline in recharge rates over this period, underscoring the significant influence of LULC on groundwater resources. Specifically, the model estimated recharge at 3.29 mm in January 1990, peaking at 6.03 mm in September, and dropping to 0.13 mm in December. By 2005, these values had decreased, with January at 2.84 mm, September at 5.2 mm, and December at 0.12 mm. The downward trend persisted into 2020, with recharge starting at 2.61 mm in January, peaking at 4.52 mm in September, and reaching 0.12 mm in December. The study highlights the critical need to consider temporal variability and long-term trends in groundwater recharge for sustainable water management in the Dedaba watershed. The analysis of LULC changes shows a rapid urban expansion, reduction of forests and grasslands, and consequent threats to groundwater recharge. Mitigating these risks requires collaborative efforts, including promoting afforestation, water-conserving urban farming, sustainable agricultural practices, and artificial recharge techniques. Future research should incorporate climate change projections to enhance groundwater recharge predictions and improve water resource management strategies.