Block­Module for the Surface Application of Biologies to Mountain Meadows and Pastures

Abstract

It was shown that the constant use of mountain meadows and pastures leads to soil depletion and deterioration. Liquid microorganisms-based biologies are considered to contribute to the soil fertility restoration. It has been revealed that there is a lack of serial samples of small-sized maneuverable machines for small contour areas, which could superficially apply solutions of biologies to mountain meadows and pastures.Research purpose To develop and manufacture a laboratory model of the unit for the mountainous area based on the Feng Shou 180 mini-tractor, which could reduce the slope areas degradation processes.Materials and methods A laboratory sample of the machine has been substantiated and developed. Its design is adapted to work with degraded soils in the mountains with a slope of cultivated areas up to 15 degrees. The technology was tested in the mountainous zone of the Republic of North Ossetia-Alania at an altitude of 1540 meters above sea level. A technical examination of a laboratory sample of a block module for biologies surface application was carried out according to the adopted standards.Results and discussion A block-module has been developed for biologies surface application to mountain meadows and pastures. It was identified that the unit laboratory sample complies with the agrotechnical requirements and the terms of reference. The following necessary parameters were calculated: tank capacity is 300 liters, application rate is 0.109 liters per second, pipeline diameter is 12 millimeters. It was determined that the use of the block-module increased the yield of perennial grasses in the mountain zone by 15-20 percent in one year, made it possible to strengthen the turf, which will prevent the development of water and wind erosion in the future.