النمذجة الخرائطية الخصائص الكيميائية للتربة لتقييم التدهور في ناحية اشنونا لعام 2023 باستخدام تقنيات GIS

Abstract

Spatial modeling of soil characteristics has become a vital topic of increasing interest among geographers and environmental researchers, due to its significant role in assessing soil suitability for various uses and determining the degree of degradation in its physical and chemical properties caused by human activities or climate change. Employing such models has become essential for studying areas that suffer from clear environmental problems, including the Ashnona subdistrict, which is considered one of the important agricultural regions but is facing serious challenges due to soil degradation. In this context, an applied field study was conducted, during which 19 soil samples were collected from various locations within the study area at depths ranging between 0–30 cm. The coordinates of the sampling sites were recorded using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technologies to construct an accurate spatial visualization of the distribution of physical and chemical soil properties. After collection, the samples were transported to the laboratory of the Baqubah Agriculture Directorate in Diyala Province for laboratory analysis using specialized instruments. The results led to the creation of an important database to understand the relationship between soil properties and the level of environmental degradation in the area. The study focuses on the use of cartographic modeling to assess the soil characteristics of the Ashnona subdistrict, including organic matter, pH level, electrical conductivity (salinity), calcium carbonate, and calcium sulfate. The modeling results revealed significant variation in soil suitability for agriculture among different districts, with declines in organic matter and increases in alkalinity and salinity observed in some areas. These findings underscore the urgent need for agricultural and administrative interventions to preserve agricultural productivity and ensure the sustainability of natural resources in the region