Using GIS to Identify Land Use Cover Change and Measure Urban Sprawl Based on Agricultural Land: A Case Study of Ait Amira in Central-Western Morocco
摘要
Urbanization has led to a decline in agricultural land, which has sparked a global debate and prompted research into its social and environmental consequences. This chapter analyzes changes in land use over 54 years, from 1968 to 2022, based on aerial photographs and Google Earth satellite imagery processed using open-source Arc GIS tools. The data indicate a noteworthy rise in the built-up area, accompanied by a decline in both bare and agricultural land in the Chtouka region of Souss, particularly in the village of Ait Amira, situated in central Western Morocco. This growth is attributed to the stable agricultural labor force from both urban and rural areas throughout Morocco, leading to the development of various urban and rural centers. The actions and practices of the local rural population have resulted in changes in land use and adverse social effects. This study fills a crucial research gap regarding urban sprawl in the Souss region. Through a geographical approach involving GIS and aerial imagery, the data was meticulously corrected and processed for accurate field analysis. Findings predict a reduction of over 356 ha of agricultural or open land due to urban expansion by 2024. To address these consequences, the study suggests scientific guidelines for policymakers and the scientific community, aimed at designing strategies to control urban growth and lessen its environmental and social impacts, with a focus on preserving agricultural land.