The use of geographic information systems in determining groundwater potential: Case studies (Zaman Stream and Serink Stream sub-basins in the Hakkari region)

Even if the amount of precipitation does not decrease due to climate change, the decrease in the snow effect on water resources due to the increase in surface temperatures increases the importance of the use of groundwater in water supply in high mountainous regions. The amount and distribution of groundwater in the Zap Water Basin, which is located on the Alpine-Himalayan mountain formation belt and consists of the narrowest and deepest river valleys, were tried to be determined. When the meteorological data for many years are evaluated, the most obvious changes detected are the decrease in snowfall and the increase in the amount and frequency of maximum precipitation in the Zap Water basin. Using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technologies, basin parameters were determined and hydrogeology, moisture index, distance to wells and springs, slope, drainage density, land use, precipitation and linearity maps were produced in raster format. Each of the maps was reclassified by giving different weight coefficients. Finally, a map showing the areas with high groundwater potential with high pixel values was produced from these combined maps. The areas with high groundwater potential in the Zapsuyu Basin are limestone dolomites of different ages covering large areas in the south of the basin and partly Yüksekova alluvium, conglomerate and sandstones. Knowing the amount and distribution of groundwater will contribute to water management in terms of effective and efficient use.