The Department of Geology at the College of Science discussed a PhD thesis entitled (Studying and constructing geopark sites using remote sensing in the northeast of Maysan Governorate). The researcher's dissertation, Egypt Mahmoud Khalaf, aims to identify the geological sites (Geosite) and the important geological elements (Geopoint), choose the appropriate sites for the establishment of the geopark, build the (Missan Geopark data Bank) a database for the geopark, and identify the best sites for building the basic infrastructure of the geopark in the region.
The study included the use of satellite visuals after making improvements and analyzing them using geographic information systems. Five geological sites were identified: Al-Tayeb, Al-Band, Al-Zubaidat, Al-Bajaliya, and Al-Fakkah, which were clearly characterized by structural and geomorphological features and the concentration of geoeconomic activity in them, such as oil fields, gravel and sand quarries, groundwater wells, and others. A questionnaire was made that included four categories related to the topic of geotourism. Analyzing the results of the questionnaire, remote sensing data and the results of the field work, by dividing each site into one or more geological points according to accessibility and natural diversity in each site.
The results were reached. The results of the study, through the analysis of satellite visuals, field work and the questionnaire, proved that the area is suitable to be a future geopark.
The study recommends the need to promote the region and its scientific importance for academic bodies through holding courses, training workshops and conferences on the region and applying and developing this study on many geological sites in the Iraqi governorates to establish and develop geological and environmental reserves. Strengthening the media and promotional aspect of the region in order to preserve the geological heritage and archaeological sites therein.
