Spatial diversity of gully density of the Lublin Upland and Roztocze Hills (SE Poland)

Abstract

Compared to other regions in Poland, the Lublin Upland and Roztocze Hills are distinguished by the density and size of gully systems. In this area, morphometric analyses using GIS tools were performed based on digital data processed from 1:10 000 topographic maps and the Digital terrain Model. The results obtained allowed distinguishing of 17 "gully regions", i.e. areas characterized by a high concentration of gully forms. The analysis of distribution of gullies in relation to other environmental elements demonstrated that the particularly intensive development of gullies in specific areas was associated with geomorphological, geological, hydrogeological, and paleogeographical factors. The anthropogenic impact, i.e. intensive, long-term agricultural management and consequent deforestation, was of great importance as well. The gully regions identified are characterized by a varied surface area and dissection density that in extreme cases reaches over 10 km/km2. From the economic point of view, the phenomenon is unfavourable, as it leads to fragmentation of arable land and intensification of erosion processes. On the other hand, gully regions offer attractive landscape and natural values, therefore some areas have been included in various protection programmes.