Evaluation of Groundwater Vulnerability of Yishu River Basin Based on DRASTIC-GIS Model

Abstract

The evaluation of vulnerability is a crucial aspect in the sustainable development, utilization, and preservation of groundwater resources. This study utilizes a comprehensive approach, integrating systematic analysis of hydrogeological conditions and the utilization of observed and collected data. The evaluation of groundwater vulnerability in the Yishu River Basin (YRB) was conducted by employing the DRASTIC model, along with the zone overlay function of GIS software. Seven evaluation indicators were considered in this assessment. The findings demonstrate that the groundwater vulnerability in the YRB can be categorized into five divisions: excellent, good, medium, poor, and very poor, accounting for 14.5%, 42.3%, 27.9%, 14.0%, and 1.3% respectively. The areas with low vulnerability are predominantly located in the eastern part of the study area, covering the largest proportion of the total area. Conversely, areas with high vulnerability are found alongside both banks of the Shu River, forming narrow strips. Although these areas have smaller overall coverage, they contain dispersed water sources that require careful attention. These research findings provide valuable scientific insights and serve as a reference for urban planning, land use management, and groundwater resource protection in the YRB. The formulation and adoption of targeted protection measures in accordance with different groundwater vulnerability zoning, the formulation of scientific groundwater resource development and utilization programs, and execution of land resource planning are of great significance from the perspective of groundwater resource protection.