Case studies

Devastating sand and dust storms: the role of Sustainable Land Management (SLM) for an Icelandic fishing town

This WOCAT Policy Brief explores the issues behind sand and dust storms in Iceland and sustainable land management efforts to reduce impacts on the coastal harbor of Thorlákshöfn. The policy brief also touches on the possible longer term impacts of efforts to control sand and dust events on environment, particularly from the introduction of non-native species.

Canadian Prairies: Changing farming methods to reduce SDS

The 1930s' Canadian Prairies faced severe dust storms due to drought and traditional farming methods like Summer Fallow. Despite initial resistance, the adoption of conservation tillage, driven by economic shifts, reduced wind erosion, dust storms, and improved climate conditions. This method increased soil protection, decreased average temperatures, and boosted precipitation by 2006. Find out more in this case study.

Lordsburg Playa Nature-Based Management

The Lordsburg Playa has been a source of numerous SDS events, which have unfortunately contributed to at last 21 fatalities since 2012. The New Mexico Department of Transportation and partners have used a nature-based approach to improve natural conditions on the playa leading to a dramatic increase in vegetation to reduce the likelihood of SDS events along one of the major transportation corridors in the southern United States. Find out more in this case study.

Owens Lake SDS Site Realtime Monitoring

Owens Lake, dried by water diversion for use in Los Angeles, became a major source of dust emissions from its exposed playa. To manage this, the Great Basin Unified Air Pollution Control District has employed extensive monitoring systems and fieldwork to identify dust sources, evaluate control measures’ effectiveness, and adjust strategies as needed. This comprehensive system is further described in this case study.

Iceland SDS Management – A Nature-based Approach

Iceland's Viking-era forests were depleted by human activity, leading to widespread erosion and sand encroachment on farmland. Control efforts began in the 12th century, evolving to include fences, revegetation, and soil fertilization. The Hekla Afforestation Project, launched in 2006, restores birch forests near Hekla volcano to reduce SDS risks, utilizing natural regeneration and local involvement. More information in this case study.