Transformation of the relief of the southern Astrakhan region (Russia) after the expansion of agricultural land at the beginning of the last century

To establish the causes and consequences of changes in the relief of the southern Astrakhan region in the period 1900–1970.

Comparison of cartographic materials of past years with data in recent satellite remote sensing images. The materials were superimposed on a geoformation program: then the hydrological elements of the relief and the Baer hills were outlined and measured for the purpose of quantitative and qualitative analysis of changes in the territory (before and after reclamation works and the currently existing relief).

The analysis of the materials revealed a significant transformation of the relief, which has served as an impetus for the development of a semidesert zone in this area.

The work carried out revealed the anthropogenic impact on the relief through which most of the territory was subject to drainage as a result of reclamation works to increase in arable land.

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