Ismail M., R. K. Yacoub and M. M. Shoman( 2013). LAND SUITABILITY EVALUATION OF THE EASTERN PART OF EL QATTARA DEPRESSION IN EGYPT USING RS & GIS Minufiya J. Agric. Res. Vol.38 No. 6(3): 1743-1761 (2013)
Abstract: The study aims to identify the land quality and crops suitability of east Qattara Depression area in the province of Matrouh governorate using geostatistical analyses, GIS and RS. Soil suitability maps for different crops are also, produced in the current and potential situation (with making some soil improvements). The results of current land suitability illustrated that, about 30% of the studied area is highly suitable (without limitations) and about 42% is marginally suitable (with moderate limitations). The results of potential land suitability revealed that about 40% of the studied area is highly suitable (without limitations), about 33% is moderately suitable (with minor limitations) and about 42% is marginally suitable (with moderate limitations). The results show that about 65% of the studied areas are marginally suitable for alfalfa and barley crops (with moderate limitations). After apply some improvement to soil properties, about 55% of the studied area is classified as moderately suitable (S2) for alfalfa and barley, and about 21% is marginally suitable (S3) for alfalfa and barley. Also the results indicated that, the olives crop has three suitability classes (S1, S2, and S3) in both the current and potential situation. Beans, wheat, cotton, groundnuts, and sunflowers are marginally suitable (S3) with moderate limitations in the current situation. In the potential situation these crops will have moderately suitability (S2) with minor limitations.
Keywords: (Remote Sensing, Geostatistical Analysis, GIS, Land and crops suitability, Limitations.)
