Assessing desertification tendencies in semiarid regions with serpentine soils: A case study of Korgun/Alpsari

Desertification represents a significant challenge to environmental sustainability, particularly in semi-arid regions. It is, therefore, crucial to accurately identify and protect the areas at risk. The objective of this study was to evaluate the potential for desertification in the region by analysing the physical and chemical properties of serpentine soils in the vicinity of Alpsarı Pond in Korgun District of Çankırı Province. In order to gain insight into the processes of desertification, a range of indicators were employed, including data about soil properties, climatic factors such as precipitation and temperature, vegetation patterns, and topographic features. The study revealed that the desertification risk values (CR) ranged from 3.33 to 6.04, with an average of 5.09. The risk of desertification exhibited moderate variability. The environmentally sensitive area index (ESAI) exhibited a range of 1.37 to 1.52, with an average value of 1.44. These values indicate that the area is at a critical sensitivity level, and the natural characteristics of serpentine soils, combined with semi-arid climatic conditions, may increase the risk of desertification and erosion in the region. Consequently, the principal strategies for mitigating the region's desertification and erosion risk have been identified as vegetation protection and regeneration, slope control, effective water management, salinity and nutrient management. Furthermore, implementing continuous monitoring programmes and disseminating information regarding soil conservation to the local population will facilitate the protection of these sensitive areas. This study provides a significant data set for the comprehension of the environmental sensitivity and desertification trends of serpentine soils.