An Analysis of the Contribution of Morphogenetic Factors in Salinity of Lands in Sarab Plain

Salinity of lands around Ormieh lake watershed, specifically to its northeast,east and southeast as well as a development of salt marsh which harms agricultural lands originates from morphological problemes. This paper is an analysis of the main factors related to this phenomenon in parts of the Ormieh lake watershed (Sarab plain). In this study, experiments were carrid out and results obtained of soil, surface water, and ground water, at different points in Sarab plain .Then, such varibles as Electrical Conductivity (EC), Sodium Adsorption Ratio (SAR), Exchangeable Sodium Percentage (ESP) and Total Soluble Salt (TSS) were analysed. The isodepth groundwater maps of Sarab plain have been drawn on the basis of water table data of pisometric as well as observatory wells. The results indicate the cause of salinity of the lands in Sarab Plain to be of geological origion (its adjacency to the marl and gypsum formation). A contribution of factors such as semiarid climate, evaporation and salt groundwater uplift along with saline surface water have intensified the salinity process and increased the development of salinity throughout the lands of Sarab plain.At present, salinity phenomenon threatens agricultural lands of Sarab Plain. Transfer of salts by Ajchi river toward Tabriz Plain constitute a salt pollution source for groundwater and surface water.