Vol. 7 No. 1 (2026)

Standard Journal Issues

Hydrological Analysis of Al-Rafee Watershed for Sustainable Rainwater Harvesting

Published 2026-03-12

  • Ali Kahdim Tilab
    • ,
  • Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed
    • ,
  • Mohammed Bahjat Thamer

Ali Kahdim Tilab
Middle Technical Universit, Al-Suwayrah Technical Institute, Iraq

Mohammed Abdullah Mohammed
Ministry of Education, Baghdad Education Directorate, Third Submission, Iraq

Mohammed Bahjat Thamer
Al-Mustansiriyah University, College of Education, Iraq

Abstract

This study aimed to conduct a hydrological analysis and assess the potential for rainwater harvesting using GIS-AL technologies for the Al-Rafee’ watershed, located in the eastern part of Iraq within the governorates of Salah Al-Din and Diyala Provinces. The total area of the basin is 212.19 km², lying between latitudes (34°33’18"–34°33,49"N) and longitudes (44°35’22"–44°46’17"E). The study relied on the SCS-CV model to estimate surface water runoff volume. The findings indicated the presence of three hydrological soil groups: B, C, and D. The land cover was found to be diverse, with agricultural lands occupying the largest area (91.12 km²), while barren lands had the smallest coverage (0.22 km²). The study also showed high Curve Number (CN) values and low retention (S) values. Furthermore, it concluded that it is possible to establish reservoirs to collect rainwater at the identified locations, with the aim of developing the studied region for future investment opportunities.

Keywords

Al-Rafee, Valley, water harvesting, sustainable development, GIS-AL

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