Abstract:
The present study aims to delineate the groundwater potential mapping by using geospatial
technology through based Multi-criteria decision (MCD) methods in the Laska catchments, Omo
Basin, Southern Ethiopia. Groundwater potential zone (GWPZ) mapping is essential for the most
effective use and conservation of this valuable resource. Therefore, regarding the importance of
groundwater resources, there is a need to develop a low-cost, quick-to-implement method for
assessing groundwater resources and management techniques. Using a combination of
geographical information systems based Multi-criteria decision in the present study with nine
thematic layers such as Geology, Drainage density, Elevation Slope, Rainfall, Land use land
cover(LULC), Lineament density, Soil type, Topographic wetness index(TWI) are preparing and
study for Groundwater potential zone model. Weights were assigned to each class in all of
thematic layers and sub-thematic criteria based on their characteristics and water potential
capability using the Multi-criteria decision technique. The result of the study shows there are
three different types of groundwater potential zones: low, moderate, and high. It is shown that
26.36% (105.96 km2) of the research area is in the "high" groundwater potential zone, 64.79%
(266.50 km2) is in the "moderate" category, and 8.84% (29.45 km2) area is in the "low"
groundwater potential zone of the total study area. The Groundwater potential zone is validated
with existing data from water wells and spring yield data in the research area. Finally, this
research study is important because it contributes to the understanding of groundwater
resources, which enables planning, sustainable management, and effective use for a variety of
uses, including irrigation and drinking water, particularly in study regions with water scarcity.
