In collaboration Iranian Hydraulic Association

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant professor, Department of Environmental Engineering ,Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment,, University of Birjand, Birjand, Iran.

2 MSc in Hydroinformatics, Department of Water Science and Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Birjand

3 MSc in Land use planning, Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, University of Birjand

10.22077/jaaq.2025.9003.1101

Abstract

Aquifer depletion due to excessive extraction and reduced rainfall threatens water resources in arid and semi-arid regions. Runoff is a key factor in aquifer recharge, water resource management, and flood prediction. In these regions, changes in rainfall and soil surface characteristics have a significant impact on runoff and water resources. Accurate runoff assessment is essential for flood management, land use optimization, and water resource planning. In this study, the SCS-CN model was used to assess runoff using Google Earth Engine in the Birjand watershed. The SCS-CN model estimated the runoff amount of the Birjand plain using soil texture, land use, soil hydrological groups, and satellite precipitation data. The results show that there are four types of soil textures in the region that directly affect the amount of runoff. Data analysis showed that 27% of the area has very low runoff (0-6 mm) and 28% has low runoff (6-12 mm), while 25% has moderate runoff (12-20 mm), 13% has high runoff (20-30 mm) and 7% has very high runoff (30-51 mm). The highest runoff was observed in the northeastern and central areas of the basin, which is related to more intense rainfall and lower soil permeability. In contrast, the southwestern areas, due to high soil permeability and more vegetation, have the lowest runoff. This research can be an effective scientific basis for water resources management and flood forecasting in similar areas.

Keywords

Main Subjects