Application of the Bergsma Model for Estimating Gully Erosion and Its Geomorphological Implications in the Al-Naft Valley Basin, Kirkuk Governorate

Al-Ali, Ismail Abir Karin

doi:10.32894/1992-1179.2026.168444.1335

	Application of the Bergsma Model for Estimating Gully Erosion and Its Geomorphological Implications in the Al-Naft Valley Basin, Kirkuk Governorate"
Kirkuk University Journal: Humanity Studies
Volume 21, Issue 1, March 2026, Pages 324-348 PDF (1.29 M)
Document Type: Research Paper
DOI: 10.32894/1992-1179.2026.168444.1335
Author
Ismail Abir Karin Al-Ali^*
Kirkuk University, College of Arts, Department of Geography
Abstract
Erosion is considered one of the main causes of land degradation worldwide, particularly in the extensive arid and semi-arid regions, due to its significant environmental and geomorphological impacts. Accordingly, this study aimed to estimate gully erosion in the Wadi Al-Naft basin, Kirkuk Governorate, by applying the Bergsma coefficient and utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques. The results showed that erosion intensity ranges from very low to moderate and high, with the area of slight erosion reaching 17.666 km², moderate erosion 103.584 km², and high erosion 135.383 km², while very high erosion recorded the smallest area of 1.425 km². The findings also revealed that moderate erosion is the dominant type in the basin, reflecting a relative balance between surface runoff energy and the resistance of surface formations, particularly in areas with moderate slopes. Accordingly, the study recommended directing soil conservation measures toward zones of moderate, high, and very high erosion by enhancing natural vegetation cover and reducing unregulated human activities, especially in the upper parts of the basin.
Keywords
erosion; oil valley; Perksma; land cover

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Application of the Bergsma Model for Estimating Gully Erosion and Its Geomorphological Implications in the Al-Naft Valley Basin, Kirkuk Governorate"