Analisis hidrografi sungai Sesayap Hilir untuk kelayakan terminal khusus kayu

Abstract

The development of a dedicated timber terminal requires a hydrographic assessment to ensure navigational safety and operational feasibility. This study aims to analyze tidal characteristics, current patterns, and water depth conditions in the Lower Sesayap River, North Kalimantan, as a basis for evaluating the feasibility of developing a dedicated industrial timber plantation (HTI) terminal. Data were collected through field observations of tides, measurements of current velocity and direction at the surface, middle, and bottom layers, and bathymetric depth measurements. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive and comparative approaches to evaluate the relationship between tidal dynamics, current patterns, and the technical requirements for terminal operations. The results indicate that the study area is characterized by a semidiurnal tidal regime, with two high tides and two low tides each day. Current patterns across all water layers are relatively uniform, with current velocities classified as weak to moderate and directions generally following tidal phases. The water depth in the study area also meets the minimum requirements for vessel navigation and maneuvering. These findings indicate that the hydrological conditions of the Lower Sesayap River support the development of a dedicated timber terminal to facilitate the safe and efficient transportation of forest products from industrial plantation forests.