Thesis (Ph.D.) - Cairo University - Institute of African Research and Studies - Department of Natural Resources

Soil salinity is one of the most important considerations for monitoring soil degradation that threat some regions in Egypt. This study focused on the assessment and monitoring of soil salinity in different Egyptian regions. The first objective of this study was attempting also to update some information such as physical and chemical properties; total and available nutrients using different methods of transformation and analysis such as: soil analysis technique, SALTMED model, GIS and RS analysis. The soil analysis technique aimed to building database for the studied area, through database, digital maps were produced using ArcGIS 10.3, in order to assess or evaluate the soil properties in different samples under physiographic units [fluvio marine, Nile alluvial and desert formation] for collected 29 soil profiles (101 samples). In addition, after analysis using SPSS 20.0 to identify regression analysis between EC and soil properties, the results showed that of the soils had revealed different changes and strong correlation between EC and each of ESP, CEC, hydraulic conductivity, field capacity, available water, fine sand, clay, total K, total Fe, total Mn and total Cu. The second objective of this study was to calibrate and validate the SALTMED model using field data of different Egyptian regions. The calibration focused primarily on soil moisture and crops in field, measured soil salinity and salt relative concentration. The validation processes of soil salinity was based on the use of calibrated plant parameters based on field measurements and records.

Issued also as CD