Geomorphological Analysis of the Bokoya Massif Watersheds (Central Rif, Morocco) Using Geospatial Techniques

Abstract

New tools, such as remote sensing and GIS, have made it easier to determine a watershed's parameters and indices. The study described the hydrological processes that affectthe watershed, including landforms, geologic structure, and terrain features, which areimportant for managing natural resources and conserving watersheds. This work aims to determine the different parameters of the watersheds that drain the Bokoya Massif, mainly coveredby the Al-Hoceima National Park, to deepen the knowledge of their hydraulic and hydrological functioning.Our study area experiences semi-arid weather. The annual precipitation varies from year to year.Physical and morphometric analysis was performed using GIS and remote sensing data. The analysis's findings were confirmed by comparing them to actual data. The results showed that the Bokoya massif shows a dense hydrographic network, drained by three principalwatersheds and several other small basins. These significant watersheds indicatea smaller surface area (A < 250 km²).and a form approaching elongation, as they are mature and represent a state of equilibrium.Indicating the susceptibility of the watersheds to erosion.The studied watershedsare distinguished by a short duration of water flow from upstream to downstream and an irregular flow regime with a large daily flood discharge. The rate of erosion in these major basins is high. Geology shows its impact, whose active tectonics and lithology modify the hydrographic network and influence the infiltration rateof runoff water.The limestone formations of the Bokoya massif exhibit a parallel hierarchy, with the drainage density being highest at the level of the main watercourse to the north.