Identification of suitable sites for rainwater harvesting using GIS-based multi-criteria approach in Nusa Penida Island, Bali Province, Indonesia

Abstract The critical step in increasing water availability and land productivity areas with freshwater scarcity, such as arid semi-arid, is identifying suitable sites for Rain Water Harvesting (RWH). Identifying RWH site-specific due to a wide variety of region’s characteristics. Biophysical (slope, soil texture, drainage density, use), hydrological (runoff potential), socio-economic (distance road, distance river, settlement) parameters the study area were implemented integrating multi-criteria decision analysis (analytical hierarchy processes) Geographic Information System (GIS) evaluate Nusa Penida Island, Indonesia. This study’s hybrid method effective tools sites. result also indicated that approximately 38% Island highly suited RWH. These are characterized by dryland farming dominant use, gentle slope, high runoff potential, moderately fine texture. initial identification potential could be valuable information completing conservation programs several purposes. approach contributes developing methodology, especially dry regions