Multisensor analysis of desertification processes in the Bishri Mountains (Syria)

Via remote sensing evaluation techniques analysis of desertification processes with special emphasis on wind erosion are demonstrated at the example of a semi-arid area in the Syrian Steppe. Expansion of eolian sands is strongly correlated to the main wind direction, the occurence of slightly erodible sand layers and the drainage pattern. A ‘like value’ correction was applied to multitemporal Landsat-TM scenes to compare the distribution of eolian sands and vegetation covers. Drainage systems, supplying the material for wind erosion could be traced in detail with spatially high resolving panchromatic data. ERS1 data were used to classify surface types of different roughness. The results of image classification and image interpretation will be integrated in GIS analysis for the definition of suitable combating strategies and the identification of promising rehabilitation plots.