Long-Term Assessment of Spatiotemporal Silting Patterns in Moroccan Dams via Bathymetry-GIS Integration

In regions facing the dynamic challenges of environmental change, the sustainable development of water management strategies is paramount. In the Moroccan landscape, where the increase in water demand, driven by population growth and intensified by the adverse effects of climate change accentuating the siltation of reservoirs, the importance of dams in the management of water resources requires a thorough understanding of spatiotemporal siltation models. This research work presents an in-depth investigation of siltation phenomena within Moroccan dams, over a long period. Using an integrative methodology, the research combines century-old bathymetric data with Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies. The resulting interactive maps make it possible to identify regions most sensitive to dam siltation and provide a complete overview of temporal changes. The analysis highlights the omnipresence of siltation in all Moroccan watersheds. The Moulouya basin is distinguished by its unique pedological characteristics and its arid climate, exacerbated by intense rainfall and deforestation. The results provide valuable information for decision-makers and water resource managers, offering essential information for strategic planning and the implementation of targeted measures to mitigate the impact of siltation.