Determining sediment composition and settling velocities of Namadope reservoir in Luuka district, Uganda

Sedimentation significantly affects water storage capacity, quality, and the longevity of reservoirs. This study investigated sediment composition and settling velocities in the Namadope Reservoir, Luuka District, Uganda. Sediment samples were collected using stratified random sampling, and particle size distribution analysis revealed spatial variation in sediment deposition. Coarse sediments (> 63 μm) were predominant in inflow zones, while finer particles (< 63 μm) accumulated in central and outflow areas. Settling column tests showed that coarse sediments settled much faster (0.909 cm/s) than fine sediments (0.035 cm/s). These findings highlight how sediment dynamics are influenced by reservoir hydrodynamics. The results provide critical insights for designing effective sediment management strategies to extend the reservoir’s operational lifespan and improve water resource sustainability.