GIS spatial model based for determining actual land degradation status in Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, North Nile Delta

Degradation factors cause serious limitations to agricultural productivity of land of Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, North Nile Delta. Therefore, there is a need for identifying the soil degradation types due to soil natural pedological process. This research work aims to determine the actual degradation status in the investigated area using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Based on soil physiographic units, 160 soil profiles were dug, soil samples were collected and analysed, then soil classification was established. The results demonstrated presence of many potential degradation processes; (soil compaction, water logging, salinization and sodification). It was noted that one of major factors of land degradation in the area was soil sealing. Therefore, Fuzzy model were established to calculate the changes of land use land cover in the last three decades to assess quantitative land degradation caused by soil sealing. Land degradation caused inappropriate agricultural practices mainly associated with conservation measurements absence; improper time use of heavy machinery, over irrigation, and human intervention in natural drainage.