Land degradation indicators in Kuwait

In and regions, such as Kuwait, land degradation is exacerbated by the scarcity of rainfall and intensive wind and water erosion. In Kuwait seven land degradation indicators were recognized and described. These are: soil erosion by wind and/or water; deterioration of vegetation cover; soil crusting and sealing; soil compaction; soil contamination by oil; and soil salinization. Four areas in Kuwait, namely Al Mutlaa, Ras Al-Sabiyah, Sulaibiyah and Ahmadi-Al-Dahr, were studied to assess the extent and magnitude of land degradation. Remote sensing images and the following parameters were investigated in each area: vegetation cover; soil bulk density; infiltration capacity; and top soil resistance. The areas showed significant variations in vegetation cover, and increase in erosion by wind and water and soil compaction. Based on the percentage of vegetation cover and the physical properties of the soil, three classes of land degradation are identified. These classes are: severe; moderate; and slight. Overgrazing was shown as a main cause of land degradation, followed by military operations, quarrying and camping. Copyright (c) 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.