Using spectral indices to assess land degradation in the Wadi al-Muhamadi basin, west of Anbar, Iraq

Abstract

Land degradation is characterized by the reduction and loss of biological and economic productive capacities of lands. It is a global phenomenon and often has adverse effects at the local level. This study is to assess the state of land degradation in the Wadi alMuhamadi basin, west of Anbar. Using spectral evidence based on remote sensing data and the results of space data. To assess land degradation and vegetation cover changes in the valley basin, and spectral data (EMI - LDI - DBSI - SI - CI - NDVI) were used to calculate the values of degradation within the lands of the basin. The results showed that the area of barren lands is constantly increasing by 0.02, 52.61 and 42.57% For the study years sequentially. Area of simple improvement with dense vegetation decreased by 0.12 and 0. 16 and0.42% for the same years, respectively.