From 12 to 16 October 2026, researchers from the Soil Reclamation Laboratory of the Institute of Geography, Public Legal Entity under the Ministry of Science and Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan, participated in a scientific research expedition on the topic “Study of Desertification Processes in the Soils of Absheron and Southeastern Gobustan and Comprehensive Measures to Combat Them.”

The expedition was led by I. Guliyev, PhD in Agricultural Sciences and Associate Professor. The expedition members were M. Mustafayev, Doctor of Agricultural Sciences; S. Talibi, PhD in Agricultural Sciences; S. Isgandarov, PhD in Physical and Mathematical Sciences; and D. Bakhishov.

The main objectives of the expedition were to examine the current condition of the soil cover in the study areas, investigate the natural and anthropogenic factors influencing the development of desertification processes, assess soil degradation characteristics, and establish a scientific basis for practical measures aimed at protecting soil resources.

As part of the expedition, field research was conducted at the Pirsaatchay Reservoir, the Toraghay and Otmanbozdag mud volcanoes, and in the Jeyrankechmez area. The studies examined the geomorphological characteristics of the areas, the condition of the soil surface, the distribution of vegetation, the potential impact of surface runoff on soil cover, and environmental factors associated with desertification.

During field observations, the effects of relief, arid climatic conditions, the uneven distribution of atmospheric precipitation, and vegetation cover on soil conditions were examined. Observations were also conducted to determine soil susceptibility to water erosion and wind erosion (deflation), assess the protective condition of the soil surface, and evaluate degradation risks.