Environmental analyses are investigations of the environmental conditions on the basis of indicators. These include the recording and analysing of natural as well as man-made characteristics of the landscape. In the specific context, it is crucial to select indicators which reflect the environmental conditions. This should include the problems. The selected indicators are to be recorded. These assessments establish the basis for answering the landscape sensitivity issue and the development of resource management concepts (Beck et al. 2004; Thomas and Allison 1993).

Environmental Analyses in the Gina River catchment

In the Gina River Catchment an environmental analysis is necessary in order to assess soil erosion risk and water balance. This is done by an international project-seminar ‘Landscape Sensitivity’ managed by Prof. Dr. Schütt, Freie Universität Berlin.

For the assessment of soil erosion risk and water balance natural as well as man-made characteristics of the catchment are to be recorded in each defined morphological unit. Special focus is given on indicators showing soil erosion damage and indicators affecting soil erosion risk in the Gina River catchment. Data are collected, prepared and analysed using several methods.

On the basis of these data, soil erosion risk and water balance can be assessed and concepts for a sustainable management of limited water and soil resources can be developed (Beck et al. 2004).

The methods used in the environmental analysis in the Gina River catchment are presented next.