Evaluating different patches, Using LFA method to control wind erosion (Case study: Hanitiyeh rangelands of Ahvaz city)

In long-term، wind erosion has considerable impacts in rangelands. The aim of this study is to understand the changes of Hanitiyeh rangelands in 30 kilometers of East of Ahvaz city and its function. In order to this، using two transects of 42 meters length in wind gradient، patch and inter patch with 5 repeat (including Shrub Log Complex، Bush، Grass، Shrub، Shrub-Grass and Bare open soil) were measured. In addition، the list of floristic and vegetation were measured. And then using Landscape Function Analysis (LFA) to measure the three indices of stability، infiltration and nutrient cycle، for each growth form with 11 soil surface indices. MANOVA and correlation analysis showed that Bush form more increase soil surface stability to other forms. And also indicates that soil of grass growth form showed higher nutrients cycle index. Infiltration Index showed no significant differences among the five growth forms. Evaluating a rangeland، helps expert to recognize rangeland changes and evaluating it. Wind erosion control is carried out on increasing soil cohesion، thus improving soil resistance to wind. Also the studies about rangeland function with simple index in soil surface reflect of management and natural changes.