Mapping impacted soils of war-affected farmers in Kharkiv Oblast
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The war in Ukraine has disrupted agriculture and food security in Kharkiv Oblast. Since February 2022, military operations have caused extensive soil disturbance, contamination, and alterations to the landscape. A geospatial impact assessment was carried out using very high-resolution satellite imagery and field observations to evaluate the effects on agricultural land. The assessment covered 11 349 square kilometres – 37 percent of the region – excluding a 40-kilometre buffer from the frontline. A total of 420 615 craters were mapped, with an average density of 66 craters per square kilometre. The highest densities were observed in the Oskilska, Iziumska and Chkalovska communities. An estimated 4 213 hectares of cultivated land were directly affected by physical soil disturbances, while 28 268 hectares were potentially contaminated by munitions. The volume of displaced soil was calculated at 376 310 cubic metres. The findings underscore the urgent need for targeted demining, soil restoration, and support for smallholder farmers. They also demonstrate the value of using satellite imagery combined with ground data to identify priority areas for recovery. Focused efforts in the most heavily impacted zones are essential to restore agricultural productivity and strengthen food security.