Land degradation reduces the ability of the land to perform many biophysical and chemical functions. The main aim of this study was to determine the status of land degradation in the study area using remote sensing and geographic information system.
The satellite data together with other geospatial datasets were used to quantify different categories of land degradation. The results were validated in the field and an accuracy of 85 per cent was observed. Land use/land cover of the study area was determined in order to know the effect of land use on the rate of land degradation.
Normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI) and slope of the area were determined using LANDSAT-enhanced thematic mapper plus (ETM+) data, advanced space-borne thermal emission and reflection radiometer. Digital elevation model along with other secondary data were analysed to create various thematic maps, viz., land use/land cover, geology, NDVI and slopes used in modelling land degradation in the Kashmir Himalayan region.
The vegetation condition, elevation and land use/land cover information of the area were integrated to assess the land degradation scenario in the area using the ArcGIS ‘Spatial Analyst Module’. The results reveal that about 13.19 per cent of the study area has undergone moderate to high degradation, whereas about 44.12 per cent of the area has undergone slight degradation.
The study demonstrates that remote sensing and GIS techniques are helpful in identification, assessment, monitoring, mapping and classification of degraded lands. It has attempted a methodology of implementing three important indicators of land degradation at a regional scale. This combines the estimates of vegetation cover, land use/land cover and slope.
Areas where the suggested indicators are affected by land degradation have been defined. These areas are considered to be the prime targets for land degradation that warrant further study. Another area ripe for further research would be to develop and implement more indicators of land degradation in order to provide a more comprehensive picture of this complex phenomenon.
The implementation of the methodology described in this paper has proven successful in determining the spatial extent of various categories of degraded lands in the area. Slightly degraded areas can be recovered with the proper land use planning and detailed monitoring.
Vegetation, land use/land cover and slope are important factors that help in determining the spatial extend of land degradation. Results show that karewas soils that support most of the horticulture, viz., apple and almond plantation in the area are degrading. Therefore, it is recommended to monitor and manage these landscapes properly.
Wetland eutrophication is a serious threat to the natural habitat of migrating birds and should be checked along with deforestation in the area. Land degradation indicators, however, are dynamic at time-scales longer than a year. Thus, to use the methods of this study to identify progressive land degradation, a longer record needs to be examined.
The present scenario of land degradation in the area is very alarming and needs proper land use planning and management. Therefore, further research should be carried out by considering more indicators.
Download the paper here -
/articles/geospatial-tools-assessing-land-degradation-budgam-district-kashmir-himalaya-paper-journal