Identification of zones at risk of erosion by the combination of a digital model and the method of multi-criteria analysis in the arid regions: case of the Bechar Wadi watershed

Erosion and solid transport is a tricky and complex problem that negatively affects natural and urban environments. In Algeria, the effects of this phenomenon are apparent; their impact is no less devastating in the long term than the other spectacular catastrophic phenomena that can be observed. Sixty-five large dams in Algeria are threatened by the reduction of 62% of their storage capacity because of the siltation problem (ANBT) (National Agency for Dams and Water Transfers). The main objective of this work is the evaluation of the impact of the erosion phenomenon on Bechar watershed which is in an area characterized by an arid climate. The universal soil loss equation was used. This model is based on the combination of the five factors (erosivity, erodibility, topography, vegetation cover and support practices) that directly influence this phenomenon. Analytical hierarchy process is used to give a weighting value of each factor according to its degree of influence on the phenomenon. The sediment delivery ratio is calculated to determine the amount of soil that will arrive at the outlet of the watershed and contribute to the storage structures siltation. The obtained results will undoubtedly help decision makers to understand the threat of erosion degree in the study area in order to better take the necessary measures to face this issue.