Suitability and Feasibility Assessment of Land Cover in Rawah District During the Wet Season (2004–2024)

Abstract

This study evaluates the spatial suitability and land capability of land cover in Rawah District during the wet season from 2004 to 2024. Utilizing Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques, the research establishes a comprehensive framework based on a set of natural and anthropogenic criteria, including land use, soil characteristics, water resources, and climatic factors. These parameters were analyzed to delineate the levels of spatial suitability and land capability across both the wet and dry seasons. The findings reveal a pronounced spatial variation in suitability and capability to degrees throughout the district. Areas exhibiting high spatial suitability and land capability are predominantly concentrated near the Euphrates River and within the alluvial plains. Conversely, these levels decline significantly in zones remote from water sources and are heavily affected by aridity. Furthermore, GIS techniques proved instrumental in generating highly accurate spatial maps that track the spatiotemporal dynamics of the land cover. This integration delivers a rigorous scientific database essential for supporting environmental planning and fostering the sustainable utilization of natural resources in Rawah District, Al-Anbar Governorate.