Can geomorphometry support the design and management of watershed control structures?

Nowadays, thanks to advances in remote sensing techniques, it is possible to perform frequent surveys at increasingly lower costs and with resolutions that effectively capture the evolution of ongoing dynamic processes. High-Resolution Topography data (HRT) and Geographic Information System (GIS) environments are essential for geomorphometric analyses that can be carried out at both temporal and spatial scales, useful to support the planning and design of watershed control structures. Indeed, through multi-temporal Digital Terrain Models (DTMs), geomorphometric indices, and field validation, it is possible to obtain information that is very suitable for assessing the effectiveness of past interventions, understanding the interactions between sediment dynamics and existing control structures, identifying critical issues, and implementing strategies to improve the management and the future planning in catchments. This research conducted geomorphometric analyses in various Italian catchments equipped with watershed control structures and highlighted the importance of sharing and effectively transferring the acquired knowledge to decision-makers. This can be achieved through clear communication, concrete examples, and user-friendly tools that can help to mitigate the geo-hydrological risk and promote more sustainable resource management.