Assessing erosion risks in the gypsiferous steppe of Litigio (NE Spain). An approach using GIS

The gypsiferous steppe of Litigio in NE Spain constitutes an enclave of great environmental interest. This characteristic badlands landscape represents a unique semi-arid steppe within Occidental Europe. The ecosystem is very fragile, soils are skeletal, poorly developed and prone to erosion. The xerophytic vegetation is scarce and overgrazing makes its natural regeneration difficult. These physiographic conditions, along with the semi-arid climate and anthropogenic impact, may lead to desertification. Land evaluation is a first step for land use planning and landscape conservation. A raster-based geographical information system was used to integrate the database and to qualitatively assess erosion risks by combining soil types, land classes, land use and slopes. The land use proposed limits agriculture and forestry to specified areas on the thematic maps. Areas vulnerable to erosion are also identified for best landscape conservation.