Analysis of Anthropogenic Influence on Desertification Processes in the Northern Caspian Region According to Satellite Data

Abstract

Pasture loads are one of the key anthropogenic factors in the dynamics of the state of vegetation and soil cover of arid landscapes. The purpose of this study is to establish the spatial distribution of pasture loads in the Chyornye Zemli region using remote sensing data from space, geoinformation technologies, and statistical data. Mapping of livestock farms, sheepfolds, and other places of concentration of livestock for 1984–1986 and 2020 is carried out in this work. Both periods are characterized by a surge in desertification processes and a sharp increase in the areas of open sands and deflated lands. The areas of pastures with different loads during cattle grazing are established; patterns of spatial distribution of mobile sands depending on soil-forming rocks and distance from livestock farms are also determined. In recent years, compared with 1984–1986, the density of farms on sandy soils has increased, which has led to overgrazing, the destruction of vegetation, and the activation of Aeolian processes. Approximately 80% of pastures exceeded the permissible grazing standards, and 90% of pastures are located in a 3-km zone around the places of concentration of livestock. The results can be used to regulate pasture loads in the region to prevent the desertification of landscapes.