Landscape patterns changes and relation to water infiltration of Krueng Peusangan Watershed in Aceh

Abstract

Abstract Watershed has played an important source of ecosystem services (ES). The Krueng Peusangan watershed (KPW) is considered to be the “lungs” and ecological border in the central region of Aceh, Indonesia. This study aims to monitor landscape patterns in the watershed area of 2009-2019 and to predict changes in 2039 and their relationship with infiltration. The selection of this research area is due to the notion that KPW is one of the numerously deforested watersheds in the country. Temporal spatial monitoring of landscape (land use/cover, LUC) patterns are required to inform policy and support future spatial management planning towards sustainability. Landscape patterns changes in KPW, including the extent of loss and addition of forest over the last few years, have not been quantified. In constructing the regional development policies, information regarding the effects of landscape changes and climatic patterns on ecosystem services is essential. Therefore, the knowledge development of this relationship is encouraged. The comparison value between potential and actual infiltration could identify the watershed category. The upstream area of KPW is classified as a significantly critical watershed due to LUC changes. Therefore, it is deemed necessary to improve the absorption zone for the continuation of groundwater protection.