Assessing the appropriate place for wetland stormwater management development in a semi-arid ecosystem

The current research investigates the effect of the construction of wetlands in regulating hydrometeorological fluctuations in semi-arid locations, such as the Bnaslawa sub-district of Erbil, Iraq. Climate-related rainfall variability, surface runoff, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions have particularly affected semi-arid areas, necessitating integrated solutions for long-term water management. A spatial suitability analysis was carried out to identify the best wetland locations, followed by hydraulic simulations with EPA SWMM to estimate runoff reduction during various return times of maximum 24-hour precipitation. Two kinds of trees, willow (Salix spp.) and poplar (Populus spp.), were chosen for their ecological adaptation to semi-arid regions and potential for enhancing wetland function. Simulation outcomes show that constructed wetlands significantly reduce peak runoff, lower total surface discharge, and provide additional ecological services such as carbon absorption and greenhouse gas reduction. The planting schemes demonstrate significant biomass potential, highlighting the importance of vegetation in hydrological regulation. Overall, this study shows that integrating constructed wetlands with adaptive vegetation strategies reduces flood risks while also contributing to environmental change prevention in semi-arid landscapes, providing a feasible framework for sustainable water management in similar regions around the globe.