Soil salinity threatens agriculture in northwest China, urgent management needed.
Understanding soil salinity variations is crucial for agriculture in arid areas. A study in Xinjiang, China used geostatistical analysis to study soil salinity in the Ili River Irrigation Area. They found that soil salinity varied widely, with higher levels in central areas. Salinity was highest in grasslands, followed by croplands and forests. The study showed that salinity increased from the edges to the center of the area. By mapping soil salinity, the researchers identified problematic areas for better soil management in the future.