Dryland Farming Research Articles

PEMETAAN POTENSI SUMBER DAYA AIR UNTUK PERTANIAN LAHAN PRODUKTIF (STUDI KASUS: DESA KAMBUHAPANG DAN DESA KAMBATAWUNDUT)

Desa Kambuhapang and Desa Kambatawundut are villages located in the Lewa District of East Sumba Regency. This area is characterized by arid conditions and experiences an 8-month-long dry season. Most of the population in this region is engaged in agriculture, particularly dryland farming. The main water supply for agriculture in this area comes from low rainfall, resulting in limited water availability. The purpose of this study is to assess the water discharge potential in these two villages. Secondary data, including rainfall data, was obtained from two stations: the Waingapu meteorological station and the Lewa Paku rain station. Additionally, climatological data from 2012 to 2021 was used. ArcGIS 10.7 software was employed to map the area using Digital Elevation Model (DEM) data. The Modified Penman method was used to determine evapotranspiration, while the F.J. Mock method was applied to calculate the reliable discharge. The results showed that the average annual water availability, according to the F.J. Mock method, is 16.45 m³/s for the Lay Mbeda River and 16.54 m³/s for the Wai Wei River. The villages of Kambuhapang and Kambatawundut have sufficient water availability, with a total of 74.18% across an area of 63.12 km². The adequate water availability in these two villages is evident from the minimum discharge during the dry season, ranging from 6.60 to 7.12 m³/s. This indicates that the villages have sufficient water resources to support the expansion of productive agricultural land for the local community. The utilization of these water resources could be further optimized by providing supporting infrastructure to increase runoff storage, such as water reservoirs, small ponds, or retention basins.Keywords: mapping, water potential, water availability, waingapu, lewa paku

Mulching Improves the Soil Hydrothermal Environment, Soil Aggregate Content, and Potato Yield in Dry Farmland

Mulching could effectively improve the soil hydrothermal environment, improve changes in the soil structure, increase entropy, and conserve soil moisture to solve the problem of grain reduction caused by perennial drought in Northwest China. Thus, a two-growing-season field experiment (2020–2021) with five treatments (PM1, biodegradable plastic film mulching; PM2, plastic film mulching; SM1, straw strip mulching; SM2, crushed corn straw full mulching; and CK, no mulching as the control) was conducted to investigate the effects of different mulching materials on the soil hydrothermal environment, soil aggregate distribution, stability, and tuber yield of rainfed potato farmland in Northwest China. Over two growing seasons, mulching planting, on average, increased (p < 0.05) the soil moisture at the 0–200 cm depth by 9.0% relative to CK (SM2 (11.6%) > SM1 (10.3%) > PM2 (8.6%) > PM1 (7.0%)). The mulching treatments significantly regulated the soil temperature during the whole growth period, in which plastic mulching significantly increased the soil temperature of the 0–25 cm soil depth during the whole growth period by 2.1 °C (PM2 (2.1 °C) > PM1 (2.0 °C)); meanwhile, straw mulching significantly reduced the soil temperature by 1.4 °C (SM2 (0.9 °C) > SM1 (0.6 °C)). All mulching treatments improved the soil macroaggregate content and soil aggregate stability in all soil depths from 0 to 40 cm, with increases of 31.4% and 27.1% in the mean weight diameter (MWD) and 22.6% and 21.2% in the geometric mean diameter (GWD) compared with CK, respectively. Straw and plastic mulching significantly increased the fresh tuber yield by 12.5% and 12.6% compared with CK, respectively. The increases were greatest in SM2 and PM2. Crushed corn straw full mulching is difficult to sow and harvest; therefore, straw strip mulching could improve the soil hydrothermal environment, increase production, and provide an environmentally friendly technology for dryland potato production.

Optimizing Cereal Crop Performance with Nutrient Priming

The fundamental building blocks for the success of stand establishment for any crop plant are better germination and robust seedlings. Pre-treatment of the seeds is one of the best methods that may possibly improve germination and maintain the uniformity and stability of the seedlings. Primed seeds usually exhibit synchronized and early germination and sometimes greater total germination percentage over a range of environmental conditions. This enhancement has been linked to osmotic correction, metabolic repair during imbibition, and the accumulation of chemicals that promote germination. Nutri-priming is a good alternative to meet plant nutritional requirements. Seed priming with macro or micronutrient (nutripriming) application has been recently done on various agronomic crops including rice, maize and wheat; lead to better germination and establishment. It aims to combine the positive effects of hydro priming with the nutritional aspect of fertilizers. Crop seeds can be primed with either micro or macronutrients, which improves the nutrient content and increases the germination, sprouting, and water uptake efficiency. Primed seeds performed better under diverse environments especially under sub optimal conditions at sowing and resulted in higher yield compared to unprimed seeds. Priming requires specific temperature and time, if it is not followed then the seed can be deteriorated due to embryo protrusion. Due to readily available food during germination, primed seed are better able to complete the process of germination in a short time and cope with environmental stresses including low temperatures. In fact, it may be regarded as a useful method for enhancing crop establishment in regions with unfavourable agro-climatic conditions (rainfed, dry farming, and dry land farming) with increased yield, tolerance to stressful situations, resistance to diseases, crop competitiveness against weeds, and water use efficiency.

Long-term effects of agronomic practices on winter wheat yield and NUE in dryland regions of USA and China: a long-term meta-analysis

Dryland agriculture is fundamental to global crop production and vital to food security. Conservation tillage is extensively practiced in USA wheat cultivation. Meanwhile, the adoption of conservation tillage by Chinese farmers is limited. This meta-analysis compared the yield and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) between conservation tillage and conventional tillage (CT) with different types of cropping systems, mulching methods, levels of nitrogen fertilizer (NF), and addition of manure. The meta-analysis presented that conservation tillage at high-NF enhanced the yield and NUE, and reduced the yield and NUE at low-NF, compared to CT. The interaction of conservation tillage with leguminous cover crops (LCC) and manure application increased the yield and NUE at low-NF, compared to CT. Non-leguminous cover crops (NLCC) increased the yield and NUE under high-NF than low-NF. The interaction of conservation tillage with management practices showed that the no-tillage (NT) with leguminous cover crops (LCC) significantly increased wheat yield by 58% and NUE by 47% under low-NF compared to CT. However, increasing the rate of NF did not increase the yield under such interaction. Cropping systems, mulching types, and manure application mainly determined the effects of conservation tillage on wheat yield and NUE. The adverse impact of CT on yield and NUE could be alleviated with the application of LCC and manure under moderate NF. We demonstrate that adding LCC and manure have a generally substitutive relationship with N fertilizer, resulting in a significant increase in wheat yield and NUE at low-NF doses as at high N fertilizer dosages. Therefore, based on the obtained results, moderate NF with LCC and manure application is recommended for growing winter wheat in dryland regions of the USA and China.

Land Use and Land Cover Change in East Java Indonesia from 1972 to 2021: Learning from Landsat

This study analyses land use and land cover (LULC) changes during the last five decades (1970–2021) in East Java Province, Indonesia. The changes are analysed by comparing four maps interpreted from Landsat images (MSS 1972, TM 1997, OLI 2013, and OLI 2021). The main research procedures consist of (1) data collection, (2) field survey, (3) image classification, and (4) LULC change interpretation. The classification uses the maximum likelihood algorithm, achieving an overall kappa accuracy of > 75%. The classification produces eight classes, i.e., built-up land (BU), heterogeneous agricultural land (HAL), bare soil (BS), paddy fields (PF), open water (OW), vegetation (VG), shrubland (SH), and wetlands (WL). The analysis shows a significant shift in land use from 1972 to 2021, with HAL declining by 46%, SH by 91%, and BS by 88%. In contrast, PF has increased by 105%, VG (forest and plantation) by 64%, and built-up areas by a remarkable 366%. These changes show a significant shift from dryland agriculture, shrublands, and barren lands to irrigated regions, vegetated areas, and urban growth. Furthermore, there are increases in water bodies due to the construction of several reservoirs to support water availability. In coastal regions, the development of inland aquaculture leads to a proliferation of wetlands (salt evaporation ponds, fish ponds, and rice-fish integrated farming).

Study on effect of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria on sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) under gnotobiotic conditions.

The rhizosphere is enriched with diverse microflora, allowing for delving prospective microorganisms to enhance crop growth and yield for varied soil conditions. Demand for millet growth-promoting microorganisms is a contemporary need for dryland agriculture. Therefore, a detailed survey was conducted in northern Karnataka, India, to identify the millet growing areas, particularly sorghum. The rhizobacteria from the sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) were assessed for promoting seed germination using the paper towel method and classified based on their efficiency. The elite isolates were positive for indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellic acid (GA), phosphate, zinc oxide solubilization, and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) production. The test isolates were antagonistic to Macrophomina phaseolina and Fusarium sp. and inhibited completely. Further evaluation of the cultures on sorghum growth-promoting attributes under pot culture conditions showed that the plants inoculated with PG-152 (Bacillus subtilis) recorded the highest plant height, chlorophyll content, root dry weight, shoot dry weight, and total dry weight under ideal conditions of fertilization. Two isolates, namely, PG-152 and PG-197, performing superior under pot culture conditions, were identified as Bacillus subtilis and PG-197 as Enterobacter sp., respectively, using 16S rDNA analysis. The sequences were allowed to screen open reading frames (ORF) and found several ORFs in Enterobacter cloacae and Bacillus subtilis, respectively. This study found that the rhizosphere is vital for identifying prospective isolates for biocontrol and plant growth-improving microorganisms.

Climate and Soil Geochemistry Influence the Soil Organic Carbon Content in Drylands of the Songliao Plain, Northeast China

AbstractThe understanding of the spatial distribution of soil organic carbon (SOC) and its influencing factors is crucial for comprehending the global carbon cycle. However, the impact of soil geochemical and climatic conditions on SOC remains limited, particularly in dryland farming areas. In this study, we aimed to enhance the understanding of the factors influencing the distribution of SOC in the drylands of the Songliao Plain, Northeast China. A dataset comprising 35,188 measured soil samples was used to map the SOC distribution in the region. Multiple linear regression (MLR) and random forest models (RFM) were employed to assess the importance of driving indicators for SOC. We also carried out partial correlation and path analyses to further investigate the relationship between climate and geochemistry. The SOC content in dryland soils of the Songliao Plain ranged from 0.05% to 11.63%, with a mean value of 1.47% ± 0.90%. There was a notable increasing trend in SOC content from the southwest to the northeast regions. The results of MLR and RFM revealed that temperature was the most critical factor, demonstrating a significant negative correlation with SOC content. Additionally, iron oxide was the most important soil geochemical indicator affecting SOC variability. Our research further suggested that climate may exert an indirect influence on SOC concentrations through its effect on geochemical properties of soil. These insights highlight the importance of considering both the direct and indirect impact of climate in predicting the SOC under future climate change.

Resilience of dryland farm households in the mountains and their adaptability to environmental and social challenges

Resilience of dryland farm households in the mountains and their adaptability to environmental and social challenges

Growth and biochemical composition of green seaweed Chaetomorpha linum (O.F. Müller) Kützing (1845) cultured in a range of ionic profiles

Seaweed aquaculture in Inland Saline Water (ISW) can utilise degraded land to produce valuable products. ISW is characterized by its different ionic profile to ocean water (OW), particularly the ratios of sodium (Na+) to potassium (K+) ions, and magnesium (Mg2+) to calcium (Ca2+) ions. The feasibility of seaweed cultivation in varying ionic profiles is not yet well understood. This study investigates the growth of Chaetomorpha linum by length (SL) and biomass (TB), cultured in several ionic profiles by mixture of ISW with OW over two 15-day experiments. The first experiment (EXP 1) investigated growth across a broad range of ionic profiles. C. linum was then cultivated across a more specific range of profiles in the second experiment (EXP 2), based on EXP 1 results. Tanks (50 L) were randomly organised outdoors and salinity was maintained at approximately 25 ppt. SL and TB of seaweed was recorded every 3 days. The proximate and mineral composition of harvested seaweed on Day 15 was also analysed. A significant negative correlation (p < 0.001, r = −0.835, N = 13) was observed between non-discrete TB specific growth rate (SGR) and increasing K+ of media in EXP 1. A significant positive correlation (p < 0.001, r = 0.769, N = 28, EXP 1) was observed between potassium (K) in dry matter (mg.g−1) and K+ in media, suggesting lower K+ in media causes increased TB due to higher water flow rate into cells. Calcium (Ca) content (%d.b.) was much higher in K+ deficient media, indicating Ca accumulation occurs in cells to for ion homeostasis when K is not available. Positive SL SGRs across ionic profiles also indicate this species is capable of a high level of internal ion homeostasis. This study provides context for commercial cultivation of C. linum in varying water types, and presents an avenue for salinity-affected dryland farmers to diversify their income through ISW aquaculture.

EFFECT OF RABBIT MANURE AND ROW ARRANGEMENT ON CROP YIELD UNDER FINGER MILLET AND GROUNDNUT INTERCROPPING SYSTEMS IN A SEMI-ARID NIGERIA

Field trials were conducted at the Research and Training farm of the Centre for Dryland Agriculture, Bayero University Kano (Latitude 11º 58' N and Longitude 8º26' E and 475 m above sea level) and at community-based demonstration farm, Dawakin Kudu (Latitude 11º 84 N and Longitude 8º 59” E) Kano State, Nigeria during the 2019 rainy season, to investigate the effects of rabbit manure (RM) and row arrangement (RA) on finger millet and groundnut intercropping system. The treatments consisted of six row arrangements (1:1, 1:2, 2:1, 2:2, 2:4, and alternate stand) and four levels of rabbit manure (0, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 t ha-1) and one level of NPK fertilizer. The treatments were laid out in a split-plot design, with row arrangement (RA) occupying the main plot and rabbit manure (RM) occupying the sub plot, which were replicated three times. Findings revealed that Rabbit manure application significantly (P &lt; 0.05) affected most finger millet and groundnut yield parameters, except for row arrangement which had minimal impact. The optimal rate of rabbit manure application depended on the specific parameter, location, and crop. For finger millet, application of RM increased spike weight, panicle weight, 1000-grain weight, and total grain yield at Dawakin Kudu but only affected spike weight at BUK. For groundnut, RM application increased the number of pods per plant, mean pod weight, and 100-kernel weight at Dawakin Kudu, while only affecting the number of pods per plant at BUK. Intercropping was generally more productive than sole cropping, with the most productive combinations varying by location. Therefore, it could be recommended for farmers in the Sudan savanna to consider the possible adoption of the application of rabbit manure at a rate of 2.5–3.5 t ha-1 to increase finger millet and groundnut yields.

A Study of Gender Perspectives on Farmers' Livelihood Resources in a Dryland Farming Community of Lombok Island, Indonesia

Aim: A case study on Lombok Island, Indonesia, examined livelihood resources among rain-fed rice farmers from a gender perspective. Study Design: Using a descriptive approach, the study purposely selected dryland and rain-fed farming communities reliant on agriculture. Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in the southern part of Lombok Island between December 2023 to January 2024. Methodology: Data from 30 respondents (15 male, 15 female farmers) assessed livelihood resources across human, natural, financial, social, and physical aspects. Analysis employed categorical techniques and mode calculations. Results: Male farmers predominated in managing human resources and natural resources such as land and water ownership. Females excelled in household water use, technology adoption, and accessing financial aid. Both genders managed income and savings similarly, with males showing greater agricultural knowledge and communication skills. Conclusion: These insights underscore the nuanced gender dynamics in resource management and highlight the need for gender-responsive policies to foster sustainable livelihoods in vulnerable dryland communities.

Residue Addition Can Mitigate Soil Health Challenges with Climate Change in Drylands: Insights from a Field Warming Experiment in Semi-Arid Texas

Texas cotton production is facing challenges from increased temperatures and extended droughts. We sought to determine whether applying a multi-species grass mulch on the surface of cotton fields in a semiarid region would mitigate some of the negative effects of climate change. We used open-top chambers (OTCs) to mimic climate warming and compared whether the effects of residue addition were similar between dryland and irrigated cotton fields located in the High Plains region of Texas during the summer of 2021. The OTCs raised the average air temperature by 2 °C. Under experimental warming, residue addition increased moisture content in non-irrigated (i.e., dryland) soils (+9.2%) and reduced the daily temperature range (by −1.4 °C) relative to uncovered soils. Furthermore, when pooled across irrigation and warming treatments, the addition of residue increased microbial biomass, soil respiration (+78.2%), and cotton yield (+15.2%) relative to uncovered soils. OTCs further enhanced the residue effects on microbial biomass by 34.9%. We also observed higher soil organic matter, microbial biomass, cotton biomass, and yield in irrigated fields compared to dryland, irrespective of residue addition. Our findings suggest that residue addition in dryland agriculture can mitigate the adverse effects of warming by stabilizing soil microclimates and promoting microbial growth and biomass by providing a more labile source of carbon, which, in turn, could boost the yield of cotton plants.

Pearl millet phenology assessment: An integration of field, a review, and in silico approach

AbstractPearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R.Br.] is an essential subsistence cereal for food security in dryland farming systems of the semiarid tropics (e.g., in sub‐Saharan Africa) and has improved tolerance to drought, heat, and salinity stress compared to other domesticated cereals. Assessing the variation on phenology is critical toward devising effective adaptative management strategies for crop adaptation to current and future climate change. In this context, pearl millet presents a vast genetic diversity, exhibiting sensitivity to temperature and photoperiod. Hence, this study aims to describe the genotypic variability in the phenological responses of pearl millet to temperature and photoperiod, particularly affecting leaf number with implications on the overall total time to flowering. The dataset encompassed 21 publications from seven countries, with experiments conducted from 1965 to 2023, including three field studies from the United States. Broad variability has been reported for phyllochron values ranging from 45 to 111°Cd leaf−1, with a mean value of 67°Cd leaf−1. Thermal time to panicle initiation ranged from 340 to 594°C, but no response to photoperiod duration was found due to the nature of dataset. Maximum number of leaves per shoot ranged from 11 to 25, showing response (1.55–2.15 leaf h−1) to photoperiod due to variations in thermal time to flowering (from 875 to 1346°Cd). Thermal time to flowering increased ca. 323°Cd h−1 under day durations longer than 13.3 h, below which basic vegetative phase duration was close to 1033°Cd. Based on the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator simulations, different combinations of the above responses (in silico cultivars) generated a great range of times to flowering (44–120 days) for locations in Senegal, Brazil, India, and United States. The findings of this study can help breeders to explore the phenological genetic variability of pearl millet and provide inputs for crop growth models to evaluate future in silico scenarios.

Appropriate flame-spraying treatment exacerbates thermal oxidative degradation of residual polyethylene films

In dryland farming, plastic film mulching can significantly increase crop yields, but the resulting residues impair soil health. Heretofore, only few studies had examined how heat treatment facilitates the rapid degradation of polyethylene (PE) residual films. Herein, we characterized the variations in micro-morphology, functional groups, and crystallinity of PE residual films after moderate heat exposure using a self-made flame-spraying equipment. The results revealed that solid residues (SR) obtained from flame-spraying showed a gravimetric weight loss of 9.39 %–15.35 % compared with untreated PE residual films (UPF). Scanning electron microscope equipped with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy revealed considerable pits, cracks, and visible roughness in appearance and an increase in the oxygen-to‐carbon (O/C) atomic ratio. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified characteristic oxygen-containing functional groups and double bonds. X-ray diffraction showed that flame-spraying treatments did not alter the crystal form of polymer, but increased the crystallinity. Higher flame-spraying temperatures resulted in larger oxygen-containing bond indices and lower crystallinity, suggesting a more severe decomposition of PE residual film. The possible volatile gaseous products at different reaction temperatures were predicted using thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TG-FTIR). Degradation of the PE residual film started at 220 °C, and concentrated release of major products such as long-chain aliphatic hydrocarbons, ketones, and CO2, occurred in the temperature range of 340 °C–440 °C. These results highlighted the effectiveness of the moderate flame-spraying method in accelerating rapid decomposition of residual films, and a flame-spraying temperature range of 220 °C–340 °C should be recommended to avoid potential environmental risks induced by the release of large quantities of degradation products. This study will contribute to enhance our understanding of the thermal oxidative degradation behavior of PE waste and provide a scientific basis for the rapid and clean establishment of PE residual films mitigation in agricultural fields.

Intensive agriculture, a pesticide pathway to >100 m deep groundwater below dryland agriculture, Cordoba Pampas, Argentina

Groundwater pesticide pollution in shallow groundwater is a well-established global phenomenon. However, deep aquifers are widely thought to be naturally protected from such modern contaminants, by confining geological barriers and upwards hydraulic gradients. Here we document pervasive pesticide pollution in >100 m deep artesian wells in a sedimentary aquifer below dryland agriculture. The vertical distribution of key groundwater markers, including numbers and concentrations of pesticides, stable (δ18O & δ2H) and radioactive (3H &14C) isotopes and ion concentrations were used to develop a conceptual model of pollutant transport to deep groundwater. Tritium, stable isotope and pesticide distributions in unconfined groundwater indicate that water table rise to <1 m below the surface (due to anthropogenic landscape modification and periodic flooding), has created a rapid pollutant ‘doorway’ to groundwater. Despite a lack of deep borehole pumping for irrigation, these rising water tables have permanently inverted previously upward hydraulic gradients towards the underlying semi-confined aquifer in some areas. Physical heterogeneities and/or leaky domestic boreholes then act as preferential transport avenues for surface pollutants to both unconfined and semi-confined groundwater. These pathways allow small aliquots of highly contaminated surface water and modern unconfined groundwater to mix with the pre-existing pre-modern deep groundwater, resulting in mixed isotopic signatures in deep wells (e.g., radiocarbon <5 pMC but detectable tritium) and detections of multiple synthetic pesticides in the deep aquifer, including AMPA at concentrations up to 4.93 µg/L and Metolachlor up to 0.015 µg/L. Our results demonstrate how semi-confined deep groundwaters may be contaminated by current agricultural techniques even where deep groundwater exploitation is limited. We urge measures to eliminate these pollutant pathways.

Effect of Eighteen Years of Continuous Crop Residue Application on Crop Yields, Soil P Fractions, and Crop P Uptake in Conservation Tillage Under Semi-Arid Tropical Rainfed Conditions

The continuous use of crop residue in soil can enhance the crop yield and potential availability and mobility of P fractions to crops in conservation tillage. A field experiment was conducted to assess the long-term effects of surface crop residue applications on soil P fractions and their relationship with P uptake and crop yields. Field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad, India during 2005 to 2022. The experimental treatments applied were: T1 - no crop residue application, T2 - application of crop residue @ 2 t ha-1, T3 - application of crop residue @ 4 t ha-1, and T4 - application of crop residue @ 6 t ha-1 in conservation tillage. The test crops viz. sorghum (Sorghum vulgare) and cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) were grown in a yearly rotation every year in the kharif season in conservation tillage. The results of the long-term study revealed that the per cent increase in sorghum (Sorghum vulgare) grain yield with the application of crop residue at the rate of 2, 4 and 6 t crop residue ha-1was to the tune of 7.9, 16.1 and 26.0%, respectively over no crop residue application. Similarly, the per cent increase in the cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) seed yield was to the extent of 25.2, 43.0 and 64.1% in 2, 4 and 6 t ha-1, respectively over no crop residue application. The sorghum and cowpea stover yield also significantly (p=0.05%) increased with the added levels of the crop residue. Significantly higher P uptake by sorghum and cowpea was recorded in 6 t crop residue ha-1 as compared to the other crop residue treatments. Results of the current study also showed the significant positive response of long-term crop residue application on the P fractions viz., water-soluble phosphorus (WS-P), aluminum bound P (Al-P), iron bound P (Fe-P), calcium bound P (Ca-P) and reductant soluble P (RS-P), and on available P and total P in soil as compared to no crop residue application. The average percent contribution of P fractions toward the sum-total of extracted P was in the order: Fe-P (30.8%)&gt;RS-P (30.7%)&gt;Al-P (24.2%)&gt;Ca-P (9.4%)&gt;WS-P (4.8%). The WS-P and Al-P were found to be the P fractions indicating their specificity by cowpea crop, and WS-P and Ca-P were found to be P fractions indicating their specificity by sorghum crop. The results of the present study will be highly useful in understanding the effect of crop residue application in conservation tillage on the P fractions and their contribution toward P uptake and crop yields.

Social networks can mitigate climate change-related food insecurity risks in dryland farming systems in Ghana

Social networks can mitigate climate change-related food insecurity risks in dryland farming systems in Ghana

Soil Microbial Properties of Durum Grown after Camelina, Carinata, Cover Crops, and Fallow

Novel crop rotation is an important factor influencing the composition of soil microorganisms. However, the effect of introducing oilseed and cover crops (CCs) into monoculture durum rotations on soil microbial communities is not clear in the Northern Great Plains. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of 2-year durum (Triticum durum D.) rotations with Ethiopian mustard (Brassica carinata A.) or camelina (Camelina sativa L.) or a 10-species forage/CC mix planted to replace fallow rotations with wheat on soil microorganisms. This study was designed as a randomized complete block with three replications in a no-tillage system. The results showed that total bacterial proportion was significantly higher in durum following fallow and camelina compared to durum following CC and carinata. Total fungal proportion was significantly higher in durum following CC compared to durum following oilseed crops and fallow. The fungal-to-bacterial ratio was significantly higher in durum following CC compared to durum following camelina and fallow. The crop species, soil pH and highly variable rainfall influenced the microbial community dynamics. The abundance of specific microbial groups due to crop-related changes might play a key role in the yield of subsequent crops and soil biological health. This study provides valuable insights into the use of CC mix and oilseeds as an alternative crop for fallow in a wheat–fallow system under dryland farming conditions. Future work is required to elucidate the biological mechanisms and functions of the soil microbial communities in the preceding and subsequent crop relative to soil health and crop productivity.

Content Analysis of Knowledge and Adoption of Climate-resilient Cotton Production Practices among Dryland Farmers

Cotton is a vital crop for smallholder farmers in India, particularly in the rainfed regions of Andhra Pradesh. The dryland farming is vulnerable to climate change, water scarcity, and soil degradation, leading to reduced crop yields and decreased livelihood security. Critical interventions like conservation agriculture, micro irrigation, and integrated nutrient management are essential to address these challenges. Despite their importance, the adoption of these interventions among dryland farmers remains limited. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and adoption of critical interventions among dryland farmers in cotton cultivation. The results showed that 75-100% of farmers had knowledge about basic practices like sowing time, seed rate, and spacing, while 50-75% knew about pest and disease management practices. However, only 25-50% were aware of drought mitigating measures, and 0-25% knew about advanced practices like micro irrigation and anti-transpirants. The adoption of critical interventions was also low, with 75-100% adoption of basic practices, 50-75% adoption of pest and disease management practices, and 25-50% adoption of drought mitigating measures. The study highlights the need for awareness and training programs to improve the knowledge and adoption of critical interventions among dryland farmers. The findings suggest that there is a significant knowledge and adoption gap among dryland farmers, particularly regarding advanced practices. Addressing this gap is crucial to enhancing the livelihoods of dryland farmers and promoting sustainable cotton production in the region.

The water–energy–food–ecosystem nexus in North Africa dryland farming: a multi-criteria analysis of climate-resilient innovations in Morocco

Smallholder farmers, who mostly engage in low-value agriculture in the drylands of Northern Africa, were the first to have felt the effects of climate change, with threats to their livelihoods and food security. The increasing costs of agricultural production, poor water and energy infrastructure, loss of agricultural land due to urban expansion, fragmented resource management, and unsustainable management practices all contribute to this vulnerability to climate change. This highlights the urgent need for innovative practices in farming systems. Within the framework of the water–energy–food–ecosystem nexus, this paper explores innovative practices in dryland farming systems, by assessing their impact on water, energy, food, and ecosystem through stakeholder perception. In this work, we aim to present a systems approach for assessing the resilience of the water–energy–food–ecosystem nexus in arid and semiarid regions. By using a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) approach, the study—which focuses on the Fès–Meknès region in Morocco—involves local actors to help researchers identify the key variables in order to assist farmers in their adaptation to climate change. The findings revealed different priorities between farmers and other stakeholders regarding the adoption of agricultural innovations. Farmers prioritize innovations that guarantee higher profitability and more market opportunities, such as integrating olive trees with cereal crops, by highlighting the importance of sustainable income sources. Meanwhile, stakeholders, such as researchers, engineers, government officials, and agribusiness entrepreneurs, prioritize innovations that emphasize high water use efficiency, which is crucial for the resilience of dryland farming areas: for instance, rainwater harvesting or the use of drought-resistant crop varieties that directly address the need for water conservation. But in doing so they are overlooking broader aspects within the water–energy–food–ecosystem nexus.