Contribution of Remote Sensing to the Evolution of Ivorian Coastal Lacustrine Environments: The Case of Lake Hebe (Southeastern Côte D’Ivoire)

The Ivorian coastal zone hosts a wide variety of hydrosystems such as lagoons, estuar ies, rivers, and lakes, which play essential ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic roles. Lakes, in particular, serve as vital freshwater reserves for surrounding populations and are also used for fishing, irrigation, tourism, and recreation. However, these fragile ecosystems are increasingly subjected to both natural and human-induced pressures, including uncontrolled urbanization, intensive agriculture, sand extraction, and the proliferation of aquatic vegetation. These factors contribute to increased sedimentation, a reduction in water depth, and the progressive degradation of water quality. This study focuses on Lake Hebe, located in southeastern Côte d’Ivoire, covering an area of approximately 274.53 hectares. Using remote sensing data and bathymetric analyses, it examines the spatio-temporal dynamics of the lake over a thirty-year period (1988–2018). Satellite imagery was used to monitor variations in surface area and changes in land use around the lake, while bathymetric surveys highlighted its morphology and sedimentation processes. The results reveal significant hydromorphological changes caused by both natural and anthropogenic pressures. Finally, decision-support tools and sustainable management strategies are proposed to preserve the ecological integrity of Lake Hebe and other lacustrine environments in Côte d’Ivoire.