Characterization and Classification of the Soils of Buraka Micro-Watershed in Haryana for Integrated Development

Abstract

A detailed soil survey was undertaken to characterize and classify the soils of Buraka micro-watershed in Mewat region using remote sensing and GIS techniques. Based on interpretation of remote sensing image data and ground truth verification, seven physiographies viz., Aravalli hill tops, side slopes, inter-hill basin, upper piedmonts, middle piedmonts, lower piedmonts and stream terraces were identified. On the basis of field study and laboratory characterization, ten soils (Buraka A to Buraka J) were identified in the watershed area. They were classified as per soil taxonomy and categorized under different land capability and irrigability subclasses as per their limitations and potentials. The study showed that Buraka A, B, C, E, H and J soils belonged to Entisols covering 305.80 ha (56.4%) area, whereas Buraka D, F, G and I soils belonged to Inceptisols covering 206.70 ha (38.10%) area. Buraka C, E, H and J soils were loamy sand to sand in texture, very low in organic carbon (OC) content (0.4–1.8 g kg−1) and very low in CEC [0.77–3.75 cmol(p+)kg−1] and rated under land capability subclasses IIIse, IVes and irrigability subclasses 3st and 4st, respectively. Buraka D, F, G and I soils were sandy loam in texture, low to medium in OC content (1.9–5.7 g kg−1) and low in CEC [3.05–6.18 cmol(p+)kg−1] and rated as land capability subclasses IIIs, IIIes and irrigability subclasses 2s and 2st, respectively. Buraka A and B soils occuring on Aravalli hills were shallow in depth, loamy skeletal in texture with moderate to strong stoniness and rockiness and prone to severe erosion. They were rated under land capability subclasses VIes, VIIes and irrigability subclass 6st, respectively. The watershed area suffers from various constraints affecting crop productivity. Hence, proper soil and water conservation measures along with good agronomic practices may be adopted for enhancing productivity. The hilly areas may be brought under grasslands and forestry to protect from erosion and improve soil quality.