Bathymetry And Siltation Analysis Of Abuloma Inland Water, Rivers State

Siltation, the accumulation of sediment particles in aquatic environments, poses significant challenges to water resource management, ecological health, and infrastructure maintenance. To effectively monitor and manage siltation, accurate data acquisition methods are crucial. Bathymetric data offer high-resolution spatial data, allowing for precise identification of sediment accumulation zones and the tracking of sediment transport pathways. This study focuses on siltation monitoring within an inland water channel: Abuloma River, using the bathymetric surveying data, which involves measuring the depth and morphology of water bodies. The bathymetric data was acquired using MK III single beam dual frequency echo sounders, processed and analyzed using Qinsy software. ArcGIS software was used to quantify sediment deposition rates, distribution, and changes in underwater topography. The result of the study shows a siltation rate of 762.249m3/year. This study underscores the importance of bathymetric surveying as a powerful tool in siltation monitoring efforts. It emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary collaboration between hydrologists, engineers, ecologists, and GIS specialists to effectively analyze and interpret the collected data. Ultimately, siltation monitoring using bathymetric surveying data contributes to a holistic approach in managing sediment-related challenges and promoting sustainable water resource management practices.