The Shiyang River Basin in northwest China is facing serious ecological issues due to overuse of water resources. This has led to vegetation degradation and desertification, especially in the Minqin Oasis. The key relationships between human water use, falling groundwater levels, soil salinization, and land desertification have been explored. Recommendations include better water allocation, monitoring groundwater levels, and improving water use efficiency to prevent further environmental deterioration in the area.