4.3 Variation of Flood and Sediment Discharge in the River
Basin
The upper and middle reaches of the Qinhe River Basin are geographically
characterized by steep gradients, predominantly due to the presence of
valleys and mountains. As a result of the low vegetation coverage and
intense but brief precipitation, flood-related incidents frequently
occur in the downstream urban regions. Rainstorms and floods represent
primary driving forces for the transportation of sediments within the
basin. Over the years, various water and soil conservation measures have
been implemented within the basin, with a focus on water conservancy
projects aimed at constructing reservoirs to regulate floods and reduce
water and soil loss. In light of these developments, the current study
aims to investigate the time-series of flood and sediment discharge and
their link to human activities within the basin during the flood season
between 1971 and 2000. Furthermore, the study aims to explore the
benefits of water and soil loss control, flood control, and disaster
prevention within the basin in response to forest and grassland
conservation measures, as well as engineering measures.