Mapping and evaluating soil salinity in the Northern Jordan Valley: strategies for sustainable agriculture

Abstract

Soil salinity represents a critical environmental challenge that undermines agricultural productivity and accelerates soil degradation in arid and semi‐arid regions. In addition, it is a critical issue in Jordan, particularly in the Jordan Valley (JV) region, which is regarded as “the food basket of Jordan” as the region is experiencing a gradual increase in salinity. This study aims to assess soil salinity in the Northern Jordan Valley (NJV) using a comprehensive approach that encompasses (1) geochemical and mineralogical analysis of salt composition, (2) spectral characterization via reflectance spectroscopy, (3) GIS-based spatial mapping of salt distribution, and (4) evaluating the extent and origin of salinity. In this region, soils are classified as non-saline, slightly saline, or strongly saline. Citrus, the predominant crop and one that is highly sensitive to salinity, is grown in soils with elevated levels of calcite and quartz. The rise in soil salinity is attributed to several factors, including the inherent salinity of irrigation water, the types of crops cultivated, the absence of advanced irrigation technologies, mismanagement of fertilizers, and local climatic conditions. Consequently, the outcomes of this study are pivotal for devising effective strategies to mitigate soil salinity and promote sustainable agricultural practices.