الآثار البيئية لزحف الكثبان الرملية في محافظة القطينة

Abstract

This study discussed the phenomenon of sand creeping and sanddunes movement and their environmental impact on Al-Gitaina Province. The objective of the study was to know the source of sand and how it was transported to the area. In addition, the causes and factors that had led to spreading of the phenomenon have been elaborated. The study endeavoured to investigate the environmental impacts in terms of economics and social effects, due to sand encroachment on the study area. It aimed at the provision of data-base, information for the authorities, and decision-makers, to assist in setting plans, policies and strategies. To achieve these objectives, a number of research approaches were adopted, such as the historical, the inductive, the statistical, analytical, and descriptive approach. Also the research conducted a field work for information not available in the references through field measurement for sanddunes movement, interviews with officials and questionnaire. Furthermore, the researcher used other techniques, including, aerial photographs, settlite images for the year 1964 and 1984 to detect changes in plant cover and number of sanddunes. Spreading and measurement of sanddunes, movement in winter and summer in 2004. In addition, grain size analysis of soil samples from both inside and outside the study area to identify soil types. Also sample of sand were analyzed to explore the heavy minerals to confirm or disconfirm the similarities between sand of the area and sand of western – White Nile area (KordofanQoz). Also sample of sand was analyzed to know how these sands were transported to the area. The study reached several results. Including the following: The source of sand in the study area is Western White Nile Area (North Kordfan Dunes).