Afforestation as a factor of physically geographical changing: A case study of Deliblato sand

Abstract

The paper analyzed basic physical-geographical characteristics and changes caused by afforestation. The aim of the paper is to point out the transformation of the natural environment initiated by afforestation, to present positive and negative implications of this action, and to emphasize the importance of the consideration of the cause-and-effect relationships during concrete action in the field. By applying analytical – synthesis and comparative methods, a presentation of the natural features of the Deliblato sand and changes that were made as a result of afforestation, is given. The results of the research present positive changes which are reflected in the stabilization of unbound sand, development of the pedogenetic process and improvement in the microclimate conditions in the forested sectors. Negative changes in afforestation are reflected in the reduction of the area’s steppe vegetation and the consequent intensity of forest fires.