Desertification - Algeria

In Algeria, the principal problem is desertification. What was once lush forestry is now shrubbery and dirt. The process of desertification took place many centuries ago and has progressively gotten worse. The process was extremely accelerated by the introduction of European-style agriculture methods that took place in the 1800's and 1900's. Algeria used shallow digging with simple tools whereas the European-style was to use deep cutting methods over large areas. This intense style lead to dusty soil that washed away very easily with the wind. Each year, Algeria loses 40,000 hectares(10,000 square meters) of it's most fertile lands due to desertification. Algeria is also 90% desert.

Other problems that Algeria is facing that make matters worse are water shortages that lead to regular droughts, pollution, lack of sewage control, and pollutants from oil industries. The Mediterranean Sea has been contaminated by oil industries which has caused fertilizer runoff and soil erosion.
In 1981, the High Commission for the Development of the Steppe (HCDS) was set up to regenerate the High Plateau. This large area is home to about 7 million Algerians. It has much sheep herding and contains very important rivers due to little rainfall. The HCDS claims that since it's project has started that 2.6 million hectares of steppe have been restored, while 7 million still require attention. President Bouteflika has set aside 2.5 billion dollars for the fight against the desert and the development of their regions.

By Andrea Belaidi

Desertification in Algeria, Willem Van Cotthem 2007

Algeria, Junior Worldmark Encyclopedia of the Nations, 2009