Interactions of land use, climate and soil development in the context of settlement history in the Decapolis-Region (Northern Jordan)

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Several authors postulated that severe degradation of soils in Jordan and the Levant was caused by agricultural mismanagement and deforestation. This idea served as explanation of historic developments like decay and abandonment of cities. However it is not yet clarified whether the present erosion is merely a function of land use or gradual warming since the last ice age. Historic field systems were partially preserved and are reflected by distinct soil development, indicating that the impact of land use could be more complex and less devastating than previously assumed. The project aims to acquire a better understanding of soil arid landscape transformation, its relation to land use systems and to climate change. It applies a comparative analysis of soils and colluvia, archaeological material, field systems and historic sources. The results will be evaluated with regard to possible future development and climate change.