An Evaluation of Desertification Trend Using Water Electrical Conductivity Index and IMDPA Model: A Case Study of Kashan Basin, Iran

Water as the symbol of life is one of the most important elements in the nature. Due to more importance of this element in arid، semi-arid regions than other climatic areas، the proceedings should be done for proper management of using water to prevent creating of critical conditions. The desertification is considered as the third important global challenge after climate change and shortage of fresh water in 21th century. In this research، intensity of desertification has been investigated by using IMDPA model and electricity conductivity (EC) index that indicates groundwater quality during 1975 to 2010 in Kashan plain. In this regard، the final score of each zone was calculated based on the geometric mean in both periods and ultimately، the intensity of desertification was determined based on the quality of groundwater in each zone. The results showed that more than 99% of the Kashan plain is located in very severe desertification class.