Natural Factors Contributing to the Phenomenon of Agricultural Land Erosion in Basrah Governorate

Abstract

This study was conducted to identify and clarify the impact of natural geographical factors on agricultural lands in Basrah Governorate through an extensive review of previous studies, research, and a field study of the study area. A group of natural geographical factors interacted with each other and with other factors, directly or indirectly, in determining the phenomenon of land erosion in Basrah Governorate. These factors included the geographical location and its clear effects on defining many other geographical characteristics, the geological situation distinctive to the study area and its impact on soil type, and the flat terrain that characterizes most parts of Basrah. Additionally, the climatic characteristics with their various elements placed the study area within the arid and semi-arid region, which has a clear effect on soil properties, along with water resources and natural vegetation. The study results showed that these factors, whether combined at times or acting individually at others, directly and indirectly affected soil characteristics and quality, facilitating the processes of erosion of arable lands, their exposure, reduction of green areas, and a decrease in the number of trees, especially palm trees, which once occupied vast areas of the eastern region of Basrah Governorate.