Document Type : پژوهشی
Authors
1 Department of Geography Education, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran
2 Department of Science Education, Farhangian University, Tehran, Iran
Abstract
Gorgan Bay, one of the most important wetlands in northern Iran, has experienced significant water level fluctuations with severe environmental consequences for surrounding areas. This study employs a comparative analysis of spectral water indices to monitor water level changes in Gorgan Bay. Previous studies have documented substantial water level variations, leading to substantial ecological and economic losses, highlighting the urgent need for effective management strategies. The present research utilizes Landsat 5 and 8 images to investigate water level changes in Gorgan Bay through a comparative assessment of spectral water indices (NDWI, MNDWI, AWEI, and NDPI). The findings reveal that MNDWI outperforms other indices, with an average RMSE of 21/66, for water extraction from Landsat imagery. MNDWI-derived water area estimates indicate an increase of 2384 hectares between 1990 and 2000, a decrease of 1488 hectares between 2000 and 2010, and a further decrease of 11080 hectares between 2010 and 2020. The alarming 11080-hectare decline in water area from 2010 to 2020 underscores the need for intensified efforts in Gorgan Bay's water level monitoring and management. This study emphasizes the potential of satellite imagery and spectral water indices, particularly MNDWI, as valuable tools for effective water level monitoring and management in Gorgan Bay. The results can serve as a scientific guide for managing and planning water level changes in Gorgan Bay.
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