Morphometric watershed prioritization for sustainable agriculture and water management on Santa Cruz island, galápagos

Abstract

Efficient water management is essential for agricultural sustainability, especially on islands where freshwater resources are limited and vulnerable. On Santa Cruz Island (Galápagos, Ecuador), the majority of the water supply originates from underground aquifers that face threats such as saltwater intrusion, contamination, and increasing agricultural and urban demand. This study aims to identify and prioritize watersheds with favorable conditions for sustainable water management focused on agriculture. A morphometric analysis of 24 watersheds was conducted, assessing characteristics such as shape, relief, and linear features to estimate erosion vulnerability and water availability. The results enabled classification of watersheds according to their potential for water conservation and agricultural use. Five priority watersheds (SW15, SW22, SW19, SW1, and SW14) were identified as having favorable conditions for water retention and sustainable agricultural practices. Other watersheds with higher erosion susceptibility require conservation measures to prevent soil degradation. This prioritization serves as a practical tool to focus efforts and resources on the most suitable areas for water management and sustainable agricultural development on the island. Overall, the study supports strategic planning to strengthen resilience against water scarcity and climate change in volcanic island environments.