Sediment quality evaluation utilizing hydrogeomorphological factors in northwestern Iran

Abstract Understanding the factors that influence sediment is vital for comprehending erosion and watershed conditions. Exploring the relationships and interactions between environmental and hydrogeomorphological factors and erosion and sediment processes is essential. In Ardabil province, northwest Iran, 98 sediment samples were collected from streambeds to investigate the relationship between hydrogeomorphological factors of watersheds and sediment quality. The integrated quality index (IQI) of sediments was calculated from their physicochemical characteristics, and its correlation with environmental factors was assessed using stepwise regression. The findings revealed an inverse relationship between Elevation and sediment quality index, with non-standard ß and standard ß coefficients of -0.000694 and − 0.393, respectively, significant at the p < 0.01 level. Vegetation cover and slope variables show a direct correlation with IQI at p < 0.05 level, with standard coefficients of + 0.001 and + 0.002, and unstandardized ß coefficients of + 0.235 and + 0.225. The IQI indicates that a value closer to one at sampling locations signifies better sediment quality, making these sites relevant for erosion and sediment management. The sediment quality index is a crucial measure for evaluating environmental conditions and land degradation, helping to prioritize areas for intervention. Therefore, identifying the environmental factors affecting sediment in each watershed is essential.