Geomatics-Based Approach for Detecting Erosion Prone Areas in the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco: A Case Study of the Imini Basin

Water erosion and mud floods create major obstacles to sustainable development in North Africa, particularly within drainage basins rich in natural resources. This study investigates the dynamics of water erosion in the Imini basin, located in the Middle High Atlas region of Morocco. Utilizing a geomatics approach that integrates Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) techniques, we generated detailed maps of slope gradients, lithological types, land use, and vegetation cover. These maps were instrumental in applying the PAP/CAR model, a robust qualitative assessment tool for water erosion analysis. Our results indicate that 47% of the basin is subject to strong erosion, 22% to medium erosion, and 31% to weak erosion. These findings highlight the Imini basin's considerable vulnerability to erosion, emphasizing the urgent need for strategies to enhance land resilience and soil stability. The cost-effectiveness of the employed methods also facilitates their application across larger areas, enabling them to assist decision-makers in sustainable development planning.