Modeling of soil erosion based on geospatial techniques and the RUSLE model for the Ugam Chatkal National Park, Uzbekistan

Soil erosion significantly impacts agriculture and the environment, posing threats to food security, economic stability, and social development . Today, modern technologies are effectively used by world scientists to assess soil erosion and take measures against it. This study leverages modern technological advancements for the evaluation and management of soil erosion, specifically within the Ugam Chatkal National Park in Tashkent region. This research employed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model to assess erosion processes and quantify annual soil loss in the park. Thematic layers (R,P,C,K,LS) for this model were created using GIS. In this way, the impact of each factor on soil erosion can be seen more clearly. According to the obtained results, it was found that the R and LS factors have a greater effect on soil erosion than the other factors. Findings indicate a heightened susceptibility of the Ugam Chatkal National Park to water erosion. The estimated average annual soil erosion rate ranges between 0.00 and 250 tons per hectare per year (t ha-1 yr-1). The results underscore the need for developing and implementing strategic measures to prevent water erosion in the park and to mitigate its impacts. The study emphasizes the importance of current technologies in recognizing and addressing environmental issues, particularly soil erosion, which has far-reaching implications for ecological preservation and sustainable development. This study not only sheds light on the erosion dynamics of the Ugam Chatkal National Park, but it also stresses the critical importance of taking proactive actions to protect the park’s ecological integrity. Failure to treat erosion in time could result in lasting damage to the park’s rich biodiversity and scenic vistas. The integration of modern technologies such as GIS and the RUSLE model not only enhances our understanding of soil erosion processes but also empowers conservation efforts, offering a promising pathway towards ensuring the long-term sustainability of natural ecosystems.