Integrating mitigation measures for karst rocky desertification land in the Southwest mountains of China

Abstract

Karst rocky desertification is a unique landscape phenomenon that causes land degradation. Scientists throughout the world are continuously exploring methods for its management. In the southwest mountain areas in China, karst rocky desertification restricts sustainable ecological and economic development, prompting government and academia to focus on environmental mitigation and elimination of poverty in the area. We performed an in-depth analysis of past mitigation models and techniques in the karst area, considering the low utilization efficiency of surface water resources. On the basis of the hydrogeological features of karst and its development, we propose the following technologies for the efficient use of karst surface water resources: on dolomite slopes, surface runoff was collected from gulley confluences, rainwater was collected from road surfaces, and surface springs were diverted into sunken cisterns. In areas with mixed limestone and dolomite, a pavement rainwater catchment facility can be constructed. The development and utilization of surface water resources in karst mountainous areas should be based on their unique hydrogeological structures, and the appropriate technology or model should be selected. We then undertook a study of comprehensive rocky desertification control technology, which considered the low land productivity in rocky desertification areas. A technical model of rocky desertification mitigation was also formulated. In this model, ecological and industrial benefits improve the technologies and the economy in karst areas. Overall, this study aims to provide research-driven technological solutions to address ecological deterioration, poverty, and economic challenges caused by rocky desertification in mountainous karst areas.