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  3. 2(39)2025
  4. Soil erosion risk assessment in arid Mediterranean regions using GIS and the MEDALUS Model: The Soubella sub-Catchment, Algeria

Soil erosion risk assessment in arid Mediterranean regions using GIS and the MEDALUS Model: The Soubella sub-Catchment, Algeria

JGD.
2025;
Volume 2(39)2025, Number 2(39)
: 16-28
https://doi.org/10.23939/jgd2025.02.016
Received: August 28, 2025
Authors:
  1. Djamel Khoudour
  2. Sofiane Bensefia
  3. Zohra Bidi
1
University of Mohamed BOUDIAF
2
University of Mohamed El Bachir El Ibrahimi
3
University of Mohamed BOUDIAF

This study investigates soil erosion and land degradation in the Soubella sub-watershed of the Hodna region, Algeria, an area shaped by dryland climatic conditions ranging from semi-arid to arid. To evaluate erosion risk, the MEDALUS (Mediterranean Desertification and Land Use) model was combined with GIS-based spatial analysis. Soil erosion represents a critical environmental challenge in water-limited regions, where harsh climate and human pressures intensify land degradation. The methodological approach relied on four indices: Soil Quality (SQI), Climate Quality (CQI), Vegetation Quality (VQI), and Anthropogenic Quality (AQI). These indicators were derived from remote sensing data, GIS tools, and field surveys, offering an integrated framework for assessing ecosystem vulnerability. The sub-watershed spans 1,837.33 km², with elevations ranging from 376 to 1,871 m and an average slope of 19.02 m/km, indicating moderately rugged terrain. The semi-arid climate is characterized by high temperatures, scarce and irregular rainfall, and significant variability. At the Soubella dam site, the mean annual rainfall is only 289 mm, highlighting the climatic stress on soil and vegetation. The erosion sensitivity map revealed three categories: non-affected areas (27.5%), sensitive areas (16.1%), and highly sensitive areas (56.4%). This pattern illustrates the combined influence of climate, relief, vegetation cover, and land use in driving erosion dynamics. The findings highlight the predominance of highly sensitive zones, underlining the fragility of dryland ecosystems and the need for preventive measures. By identifying erosion-prone sectors, the research provides essential guidance for decision-makers to implement sustainable land management strategies that mitigate erosion risks and enhance resilience in the Hodna region.

Erosion sensitivity
Soubella sub-Catchment
Dryland environment
MEDALUS
GIS
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