A study on classification of vegetation zones based on flow regimes in Riparian wetlands

Wetlands play an important role in cycling water resources, organic matter, water purification, and ecosystem conservation. Understanding flow regimes is essential for effective wetland management because it significantly influences wetland succession and circulation. This study aims to develop a methodology for quantifying flow regimes of the Jangdan Wetland (Imjin River) and the Binae Wetland (Namhan River). The study utilized water level duration curve (LDC) based on historical water level data from 2008 to 2023 for the Binae Wetland and from 2003 to 2023 for the Jangdan Wetland to analyze hydrological flow regimes. Flow regime diagrams describing the inundation characteristics over time, were then constructed using the LDC and the digital elevation models (DEM) of the wetlands. To understand the relationship between vegetation communities and hydrologic regime in the wetland, this study classified nine vegetation zones based on the tolerance of associated plant species to inundation (in weeks or months) reported for plant species in previous studies. The study revealed that the Jangdan Wetland were dry primarily on most days but experienced complete inundation during flooding events. In contrast, the Binae Wetlands were found to be frequently inundated, with approximately 40 % of the area experiencing regular flooding, while 20 % of the higher elevation areas were only inundated once every few years.