Soil Loss Models for Somalia

Authors : Abdinasir Abdullahi Mohamed, Levent Başayiğit

Pages : 146-151

Doi:10.55979/tjse.1336047

View : 58 | Download : 69

Publication Date : 2023-12-29

Article Type : Review Paper

Abstract :Soil erosion stands as a significant environmental concern impacting both agricultural productivity and natural ecosystems across various regions worldwide. The soil losses attributed to erosion exacerbate concerns about food security and land degradation in Somalia, a country already grappling with numerous socio-economic challenges. This study aims to evaluate the erosion risk in Somalia by examining potential techniques that offer valuable insights for sustainable land management and resource planning. Emphasizing the utilization of remote sensing data, geographic information system (GIS) techniques, and hydrological modeling, the research highlights the exploration of erosion risk factors and their spatial distribution nationwide. Topographic data, soil properties, land use and land cover data, precipitation models, and vegetation indices could be employed to identify erosion-prone areas and sensitive points in Somalia. Furthermore, analyzing historical erosion data can aid in calibrating and validating predictive models. Continuous monitoring of sensitive areas over the years is recommended, considering the role of human activities such as ongoing deforestation, poor agricultural practices, and excessive grazing, which contribute to escalating erosion risks on Somali lands. Decision-makers should focus on methodologies that can be utilized to implement efficient erosion management techniques ensuring environmental sustainability across Somalia.
Keywords : CORINE, Erozyon, RUSLE, SLEMSA, Somali