Mapping of a Pond Site from UAV-Based Photogrammetry

The precipitation regime is changing with global warming. This situation creates a risk of drought in some regions and water management becomes even more important. Water retaining structures are needed in order for agricultural activities to continue regularly. Ponds are preferred because of their high benefits for the environment, ecology, protection of groundwater, and economy. An irrigation pond is going to be built in Mersin province, Boztepe village. The study area, located in the Middle Tauride orogenic belt, is under the influence of the left-lateral strike-slip Ecemiş Fault Zone. The study area, characterized by the typical Mediterranean climate, is very suitable for agriculture. In this study, the pond site was modelled in 3D using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Using UAV pictures, Digital Surface Map (DSM), slope map, and orthophoto of the region were created in Agisoft Metashape software at high resolution. The information obtained by the remote sensing method has been transferred to the GIS environment. The volume and 3D surface area of the pond were calculated in ArcGIS from this model. Hydrological modelling of the region was created using the DEM data generated. With this study, the model of the pond site was created in a short time with a low-cost UAV. The obtained model of the terrain can be used as a basic base for the engineering project of the pond.