The use of geoinformatics in investigating the impact of agricultural activities between 1990 and 2010 on land degradation in NE of Jordan

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Land degradation and water scarcity are pressing global issues for Jordan, particularly concerning agricultural land. The situation is expected to worsen, as agriculture is a key contributor to the country's gross domestic product and a primary income source for many communities. Various natural factors, including climate conditions, and human activities, such as poor agricultural practices and groundwater mismanagement, have led to soil quality decline and groundwater deterioration. Degradation manifests through improper farming techniques, including excessive use of biocides and fertilizers, inadequate soil conservation methods, and over-extraction of water, which causes salinization. Geoinformatics, encompassing remote sensing, Geographic Information Systems, and GPS, is crucial for evaluating and monitoring environmental conditions. These technologies help assess land condition trends, particularly in tracking desertification and land changes over time. In northeastern Jordan, geoinformatics techniques were employed to study the impact of agricultural activities on land degradation, utilizing the DRASTIC index to evaluate groundwater vulnerability and develop a model for assessing land degradation risks.