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Sudan Journal of Agricultural Research

Study of major features of land degradation in Butana region of the Gezira state, Sudan

Meheissi, B.M.  Elmobark, A.A.

 Abstract

This study was conducted in the semi-arid climatic zone of Butana region of the Gezira State, Sudan. The main objective was to study the major features of land degradation as a result of environmental deterioration in the region. It used reports from different sources, aerial photographs, Thematic Mapper, topographic maps and stereoscope.Both field and office work were exercised to unravel causes for climatic changes, soil degradation, erosion hazards and vegetation and pastoral degradation that occurred in the area. A comparative method was used to show changes that occurred during the last four decades. The comparison was mainly between this study and studies executed during the sixties of the past century in Butana region. The study revealed that the climatic conditions, soil properties and vegetation have undergone changes at variable degrees. The present day major climatic changes included but not limited to a decrease in rainfall and a short rainy season compared to those of 1960. The soil particle size distribution was significantly changed especially in the silt fraction, whereas soil pH and ECe were slightly altered. Woodland and pastures were severely degraded due to overgrazing, wood cutting and drought periods. The decline in annual rainfall is the major factor inducing such degradation in the region.

Sudan Journal of Agricultural Research Vol. 17 (2011) PP. 49-64