Environmental Impacts of Shelter. Belts and Plantations Along Shirian Elshamal Road

Abstract

Desertification can lead to the destruction of well established human communities. This is due to human activities and or natural causes. This may lead to reduction of land productivity which affect the presence of man and animals. When condition become harsh man and animal migrations occur. This study was conducted at north khartoum State and Northern State a long Shirian Elshamal Road. The Objective of this study was to assess the environmental impacts of shelter-belts and plantations established a long Shirian Elshamal Road. The estabishment of water points, Shelter-belts and plantations made it possible to combat desertification and provide services. Methods of data collection were by a pilot survey, a questionnaire, books, references and interviews. This study was conducted at three sites and these were Goz Abudulaa, Tamtam and Almultaga. The total area for these shelter- belts and plantations were 330 feddans. This study showed that establishment of shelter-belts and plantations helped to combat desertification, to protect roads, populated areas and agricultural land. Also the study showed that shelter-belts and plantations helped to stabilize moving sands and sand dunes. The study also showed that there was decrease in soil erosion and increase of biodiversity. Residents at the study area showed that people settled and migration decreased because of water, education and health services. Also Mosques and kalawis were established. Generally the standard of living became better than before. The Study indicated that there is a need for establishment of more shelter-belts and plantations at arid and semi- arid areas. There is also a need for extension and training of inhabitants to establish of shelter- belts and plantations.