MORPHOMETRIC ANALYSIS OF RIVER DURA, NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA: IMPLICATION FOR WATERSHED MANAGEMENT AND EROSION CONTROL

Abstract

River Dura watershed lacks comprehensive morphometric characterization, hindering evidence based 
watershed management and erosion control. This study quantitatively analyzed the morphometric dynamics of 
River Dura from 1990 to 2020 using GIS techniques, remote sensing data (Landsat TM/ETM+, SRTM DEMs), 
and field measurements across 30 sampling points. Key linear, areal, and relief parameters including channel 
width difference, meander belt width, sinuosity index, meander ratio, braid index, and bifurcation ratio were 
computed to assess hydrological behaviour and erosion susceptibility of the river. Results revealed a spatially 
heterogeneous pattern characterized by alternating active peaks (e.g., SP6, SP12, SP18, SP24, SP30) and 
stable troughs (e.g., SP3, SP9, SP15, SP21, SP27). A progressive downstream transition from a relatively 
straight, confined upper course to a mature, dynamically active meandering lower course was observed, 
evidenced by increasing sinuosity, meander belt expansion, and channel lengthening. The dendritic drainage 
network and mean bifurcation ratio of 4.2 indicate overall geomorphic stability with slight structural 
influence. Braided zones (SP4, SP11, SP17, SP23 and SP29) were identified as sediment-rich areas requiring 
upstream erosion control. The findings enable a quantitative framework for prioritizing erosion-prone zones, 
implementing targeted bioengineering interventions in active peaks, preserving stable troughs with minimal 
interference, and establishing setback zones along migrating meander belts. This study assists policymakers 
and environmental managers actionable insights for sustainable watershed management and erosion control 
in the River Dura watershed and similar alluvial river systems in North Central Nigeria.