Based on what you learn from these resources, write a brief essay giving specific examples of how human activity has contributed to the problem of desertification in the Sahel region. How has the problem affected Lake Chad? How has it endangered the local population's way of life?

Use of agricultural lands, poor irrigation practices, deforestation, and overgrazing.

Explanation:

Human activity has greatly contributed to the problem of desertification in the Sahel region. Factors such as use of agricultural lands, poor irrigation practices, deforestation, and overgrazing are the main problems created by human activities. Over extraction of water by humans for their daily needs is the main problem that greatly affected lake Chad. Due to lowering of water in the lake, the people that settle around the lake and depends on this lake migrated to other regions due to this water crises.

Explanation:

Human activity, including irrigation practices, hydroelectric dams, and intense agricultural use, have led to desertification in the Sahel region. In addition, global warming has added to the problem. Over time, the soil becomes overused and sterile. As that dry and arid soil moves, it begins to encroach on local bodies of water. Lake Chad, as a result, has shrunk in size. Just 40 years ago, this lake contained 15,000 square miles of water. It now contains just over 500 square miles of water.

The locals of this region depend heavily on both fertile soil and healthy bodies of water for survival. Desertification can greatly endanger their way of life. For example, famers cannot produce the necessary crops, and fishers cannot rely on as much seafood. The article mentions that fishers who used to be able to fill hundreds of traps can now barely fill one. Desertification in the Sahel and its impact on Lake Chad will have a lasting effect and could possibly mean a different way of life for generations to come in the region.