The presence of chloride ions in water can be established by adding dilute trioxonitrate V acid to a sample of the water in drops followed by aqueous silver trioxonitrate V.
If a white precipitate is formed, which is soluble in excess aqueous ammonia solution, then the presence of chloride ion in the water sample is ultimately confirmed.
Vegetation helps pack and keep the soil in place because of their roots. Vegetation can also help block wind. The desert does not have this kind of protection.