Quantitative modeling of dunefields high and space using geomorphometric studies in central deserts of Iran

Wind, as a major driving factor on soil erosion in arid and semi-arid areas, needs to be investigated precisely to prevent its undesirable effects. The main purpose of this research was to determine the spatial variability of wind erosivity and sand drift around Urmia Lake. For this aim, the anemometry data of eight synoptic stations adjusted to the Lake were analyzed for the whole period time. Annual wind-roses showed that despite the very high spatial and temporal changes of wind variables (speed and direction), major prevailing winds were blown from the East and West, respectively. Also, annual storm-roses depicted that the erosive winds blew mainly from South and Southwest direction. These winds had a unidirectional regime in summer and spring, while in fall and winter, a multi directional regime was observed. The results of calculated sand drift power by Fryberger and Dean Formula indicated a low to moderate class of wind erosion potential and the final direction of sediment transport was mainly to northeast. According to the Letu-Letu equation, sand transport flux is varied between 0.05 to 0.76 Ton/m/year. Although the windiness of study area is moderate, the Tsoar sand mobility index is less than one, indicating inactive sand dunes. However, due to the low vegetation established on the sand dunes surface, it can be drawn that the role of human factors (especially cattle grazing and trampling) as well as the salinity caused by the drying of the Lake are responsible for this situation.