Contour Farming Research Articles

Farmers' Awareness of Land Degradation and Adoption of Soil and Water Conservation Practices in Hidebu Abote, Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, land degradation is a serious problem that affects both overall economic growth and agricultural output. Even while nutrient depletion, soil erosion, and deteriorating soil quality are serious issues, many land conservation initiatives today neglect to consider the expertise of farmers and local requirements. This study's primary goal was to evaluate farmers' knowledge of land degradation and their practice of soil and water conservation techniques in Ethiopia's Hidebu Abote. Data were gathered through focus groups, key informant interviews, household surveys, secondary data analysis, and focus groups. According to the findings, over 75% of the participants were aware of the factors that contribute to land degradation, such as poverty, rocky terrain, bad farming techniques, overgrazing, overcultivation, and soil erosion. Farmers used techniques such as contour farming, fallowing, fanyajuu, cut-off drains, soil bunds, and manure application in addition to more modern methods of conserving water and soil. The adoption of soil and water conservation methods by farmers was impacted by several factors such as age, gender, size of family, educational background, NGOs' incentives, farm size, land tenure, and distance from homestead. The study indicates that encouraging farmers to manage and conserve their land should be the priority for any policy or program aiming at land resource management and soil conservation. Policymakers and development professionals can use the findings as guidance to create efficient interventions to alleviate land degradation in the research area and other comparable contexts.

Rainfall Patterns and Groundwater Dynamics: Implications for Soil and Water Conservation in Kodihalli Sub-Watershed, Haveri District, Karnataka, India

The Kodihalli sub-watershed (4D4D2f) is lies between 14028’23.68”-14034’20.103” North latitudes and 75026’49.224”-75031’44.208” East longitudes and covers an area of about 4398.83 ha. with an average annual rainfall of 783.0 mm (2014-2021). The maximum rainfall of 439.0 mm is received from June to September, 226.0 mm from October to early December and the remaining 118.0 mm is received during the rest of the year. The number of rainy days (>2.5 mm) varied from 13-24 days per year. On an average, the number of rainy-day events likely to produce runoff (20 to 30 mm) are about 2 to 8 rainy days per year with moderate variation across the years. The Actual Evapotranspiration (AET) over the years 2014 - 2021 in the Kodihalli sub-watershed varied from 383.0 to 770.0 mm. During 2014 - 2021, the average annual AET (621.0 mm) was less than the average rainfall (783.0 mm). The average AET/P ratio between 2014-2021 was about 0.79 which is less than the sustainable limit of about 0.80. The soils of watershed viz., sandy clay loam (IR 10 mm/hr) and sandy clay (IR 14 mm/hr) resulted in more infiltration rate than clay (2 mm/hr) and clay loam soils (7 mm/hr). Soil infiltration during a rainstorm is closely related to a number of factors such as the intensity and kinetic energy of the rainfall, soil surface conditions and soil properties such as those related to aggregate stability. For effective soil and water conservation, maximum area of about 3769 ha (85.7%) requires graded bunding and 267 ha (6.06%) area requires contour bunding.

Sustainable Water Resource Planning for Alanda Micro Watershed Using Geospatial Techniques

Groundwater is a vital natural resource, especially in areas lacking surface water bodies. About one-third of the global population relies on it for drinking, irrigation and industrial purposes. However, excessive and unregulated exploitation has led to a rapid decline in water tables, emphasizing the need for sustainable groundwater management. The Alanda micro watershed in Barshitakli Taluka, Akola District, Maharashtra, spans 11.39 km², with a sub-humid climate and uneven monsoon rainfall averaging 780 mm. The region faces high water stress in summer, with dried bore wells and farmers relying on rain and groundwater for irrigation. The water resource development plan for Alanda micro watersheds integrates GIS, remote sensing and AHP to identify groundwater potential zones. The Alanda micro watershed soil and water conservation plans were developed using GIS, remote sensing and the AHP method. Thematic maps were overlaid in ArcGIS, applying weighted factors from a pairwise comparison matrix to identify groundwater potential zones. These zones, categorised as high, moderate and low potential, highlight that the largest area has moderate potential, suggesting good opportunities for conservation measures. The survey of the study area identified existing soil and water conservation structures, including 3 farm ponds, 1 check dam and a contour bund. Additional recommendations include 5 farm ponds, 4 check dams, contour trenches and bunding measures, along with agronomic practices for effective surface and groundwater management.

Environmental impact of modern agricultural practices: Strategies for reducing carbon footprint and promoting conservation

Modern agricultural practices have significantly transformed food production, leading to increased efficiency and productivity. However, these advancements have also had notable environmental impacts, particularly concerning carbon emissions and resource depletion. This study explores the environmental impact of contemporary agricultural practices, emphasizing the need for strategies to mitigate carbon footprints and enhance conservation efforts. Agriculture contributes substantially to greenhouse gas emissions through sources such as livestock, synthetic fertilizers, and fossil fuel consumption. These emissions contribute to climate change and global warming. Additionally, modern farming practices often lead to deforestation, habitat loss, and soil degradation, exacerbating biodiversity loss and reducing soil health. Water usage in agriculture also poses significant challenges, with high water consumption and pollution from runoff affecting water resources and aquatic ecosystems. To address these issues, several strategies can be employed to reduce the carbon footprint of agriculture. Adoption of sustainable farming practices such as conservation tillage and no-till farming can enhance soil carbon sequestration, improving soil health and reducing emissions. Agroforestry and cover cropping further contribute by capturing atmospheric carbon and improving soil structure. The integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power in farming operations, along with energy-efficient technologies, can also reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower overall greenhouse gas emissions. Promoting conservation involves implementing practices that protect and restore natural resources. Soil conservation methods, including erosion control techniques like terracing and contour plowing, help maintain soil health and prevent degradation. Efficient water management strategies, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, reduce water consumption and mitigate pollution from runoff. Biodiversity conservation can be supported through the preservation of natural habitats and the promotion of biodiverse farming systems, which enhance ecosystem resilience and stability. Effective policy frameworks and support mechanisms are crucial for driving the adoption of these strategies. Government policies, including environmental regulations and incentives, play a pivotal role in encouraging sustainable practices. Research and innovation are essential for developing new technologies and practices, while education and extension services ensure the dissemination of knowledge and best practices to farmers. Modern agricultural practices have significant environmental impacts, but through the adoption of sustainable practices and innovative strategies, it is possible to reduce carbon footprints and promote conservation. Continued research, supportive policies, and effective implementation of conservation strategies are essential for achieving a more sustainable agricultural future. Keywords: Environmental Impact, Agricultural Practices, Carbon Footprint.

Mapping and modeling of water erosion in the Revubué river Sub-Basin, Moatize, Mozambique

This study investigated water erosion in the Revubué River Sub-Basin, Moatize, Mozambique, utilizing advanced mapping and modeling techniques. Through detailed land use surveys and application of the Potential Erosion Model (EPM), we identified areas with moderate to severe erosion rates (φ = 0.54), particularly in zones of intensive agriculture (15% of the study area) and mining (1% of the study area). The results highlighted the influence of undulating topography (average slope of 9%) and intensive agricultural practices on erosion rates (0 – 25 ton/ha). Urgent implementation of soil conservation practices, such as contour plowing and terracing, was recommended to mitigate soil loss, improve agricultural productivity, and promote environmental sustainability. Agricultural sustainability was emphasized, focusing on investments in sustainable agricultural practices to preserve long-term soil health. Raising awareness among farmers about the impacts of soil erosion and implementing effective management practices were considered crucial. Extension services were recognized as key agents in disseminating knowledge for promoting eco-friendly agricultural practices.

Assessment of urbanization impacts on soil erosion and groundwater recharge in Enugu, Southeastern Nigeria

The study of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) in Enugu, southeastern Nigeria, is crucial for understanding its effects on erosion and groundwater recharge. Different LULC types, coupled with varying slope gradients and soil types, create a complex interaction that influences soil stability and water infiltration in the region. This research aims to assess the distribution of LULC types, slope gradients, and soil types in Enugu, and to evaluate their impacts on erosion rates and groundwater recharge potential. Data for LULC, slope gradients, and soil types were collected and analyzed to determine their spatial distribution and characteristics. The study employed GIS techniques to map these variables and assess their interactions. Erosion potential and groundwater recharge capacity were evaluated based on the characteristics of the LULC types, slopes, and soils. The analysis revealed that trees cover the largest area (3709.74 km²), playing a significant role in stabilizing the soil and reducing erosion through their extensive root systems and canopy cover. Rangeland (2631.81 km²) also contributes to soil stability, although less effectively than forested areas. Crops (192.40 km²) have mixed impacts on erosion depending on agricultural practices. Built areas (1162.69 km²) present challenges due to impervious surfaces, which increase surface runoff and reduce groundwater recharge. Slope gradients were found to correlate with erosion processes and groundwater dynamics. Gentle slopes (0 - 1.81 degrees) cover 1870.15 km² and facilitate infiltration, enhancing groundwater recharge. Moderate slopes (1.81 - 4.06 degrees), covering 3275.46 km², are more prone to erosion, while steeper slopes (4.06 - 11.73 degrees) covering 2176.54 km² experience accelerated runoff and increased erosion rates. The steepest slopes (11.73 - 44.06 degrees) are the most erosion-prone areas, requiring significant intervention. The soil analysis showed that Dystric Nitosols (4052.80 km²) with the lowest K-factor (0.0178) are least prone to erosion and have high infiltration capacity, making them beneficial for groundwater recharge. Plinthic Acrisols (2732.53 km²) and Ferric Acrisols (102.36 km²) exhibit moderate erosion susceptibility. Dystric Fluvisols (793.92 km²) with the highest K-factor (0.0223) are highly erosion-prone. Gleysols (20.69 km²) have low to moderate erosion susceptibility. The interplay between LULC types, slope gradients, and soil types significantly influences erosion and groundwater recharge in Enugu. The study highlights the need for targeted land management practices, such as afforestation, contour farming, terracing, and the use of cover crops to mitigate erosion and enhance groundwater recharge. This research provides a comprehensive analysis of the relationships between LULC, slope gradients, and soil types in Enugu, offering valuable insights for developing effective land management strategies to address erosion and groundwater recharge challenges.

Reducing vulnerability to climate change among millet and sorghum farmers in Ghana: interrogating the contribution of climate-smart agriculture in northwestern Ghana

Reducing vulnerability of smallholder farmers to climate change is a global issue. One approach viewed as important in reducing farmers’ vulnerability to climate change is Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA). CSA is often seen as an approach to redefine, reposition and sustainably manage agriculture. Given the importance of CSA practices in sustaining the food needs of many farm households in sub-Saharan Africa and Ghana, this study investigates CSA practices that were introduced to farmers by Center for Indigenous Knowledge and Development (CIKOD), interrogates the contributions of CSA to reducing farmers vulnerability to climate change and established the relationship between CSA and climate change adaptation. The study employed a mixed method approach, using 146 smallholder millet and sorghum farmers. Questionnaire and interviews were used to generate primary data for analysis. Descriptive statistics, involving Chi-square test and relative importance index were used to analyze the questionnaire while thematic analytical approach was used to analyze the interviews. The results of the study revealed that CSA practices such as crop rotation, weed control, contour farming, and land rotation are deployed by smallholder farmers to respond to drought, dry spell and flood in the Municipality. Asset holding capacity, credit, access to climate information, and extension services were found to be key determinants of farmers’ adoption of CSA practices. The study recommends the need for the Ministry of Food and Agriculture to provide some technical support to smallholder farmers to successfully adopt these practices for sustainable farming. Again, the study recommends the need for non-governmental organizations and development partners, which over the years have shown interest in promoting CSA practices among farmers, to continuous to support and promote the adoption of CSA by farmers.

Physical and Chemical Properties of Soil of Different Villages of District Solan, Himachal Pradesh, India

The research was conducted to assess the physical and chemical properties of soils from twenty-one villages of Solan district, Himachal Pradesh within its geographical coordinates ranging from the latitude 30°44’53” to 31°22’01” N and longitude 76°36’10” to 77°15’14” E, during 2023-2024, India. The villages represent diverse landforms, including contour farming, plains, and slopes. Soil samples were collected from two depths, 0-15 and 15-30 cm, and analysed them using standard laboratory protocols. The predominant soil texture was sandy loam, bulk density ranges from 1.22 to 1.39 Mg m-3, particle density from 2.42 to 2.67 Mg m-3, and percent pore space varied between 40.50% and 46.68%, while the percent water holding capacity ranges from 37.65% to 45.53%. Soil pH ranged from 6.61 to 7.47. Electrical conductivity was measured between 0.18 and 0.34 dS m-1, indicating non-saline conditions. Organic carbon content was medium 0.30% to high 0.61%. The available nitrogen content ranged from 232.68 to 279.64 Kg ha-1, available phosphorus from 37.23 to 64.54 Kg ha-1, and available potassium from 262.14 to 365.34 Kg ha-1. These findings provide valuable insights into the soil health of the region, with implications for agricultural practices and land management.

Innovative Soil Management, Soil Amendments and Soil Conservation Strategies for Boosting Horticultural Crops Yields

Innovative soil management, soil amendments, and soil conservation strategies are pivotal in boosting horticultural crop yields. By integrating cutting-edge techniques, such as precision agriculture and organic amendments, these approaches optimize soil health and fertility, enhancing plant growth and productivity. Soil amendments, including biochar, compost, and green manures, improve soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability, creating a favourable environment for horticultural crops. Additionally, soil conservation practices like cover cropping, contour ploughing, and agroforestry prevent erosion, maintain soil organic matter, and promote biodiversity. These strategies collectively contribute to sustainable agriculture, ensuring higher yields and long-term soil productivity while mitigating environmental impacts. Through a holistic approach to soil management, horticulturists can achieve robust crop performance and resilience against climatic challenges.

Climate-smart water management practices for sustainable agriculture in Uganda

ABSTRACT The aim of the study is to assess climate-smart water management practices for sustainable agriculture in the Lake Mutanda catchment area, Kisoro District, Uganda. The study was led by specific objectives, specifically: assessing the effects of flooding on agricultural productivity, and smallholder farmer's responses to rainfall variability for the past 20–30 years, investigating climate-smart water management practices for sustainable agriculture, and analyzing the seasonal variations of the physicochemical water quality parameters. The study used a mixed research design, which used mixed methodologies to collect and analyze data using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A straightforward random sampling approach was used to determine the sample size. Three hundred and ninety-seven respondents participated in the study. Quantitative data was analyzed using the R programming language, and qualitative data was analyzed using ATLAS.ti. The study identified climate-smart water management practices like mulching, terracing, contour farming, conservation tillage, agroforestry, and fertilizer management. Most of the respondents (29.7%) cited a reduction in soil fertility, 57.9% of the total sampled respondents had noticed changes in rainfall variability, and 67.3% reported a decrease in rainfall. The majority (38% of the participants) use mulching to reduce running water into the catchment areas. Turbidity, temperature, and DO were beyond the WHO-permitted levels.

Mixture of winter cover crops reduces surface runoff and sediment production under no‐tillage system for Oxisols

AbstractOne of Brazil's efficient soil and water conservation practices is the no‐tillage system (NTS). Nonetheless, erosion during rainfall still causes soil and water losses in this system. Therefore, this study aimed to assess surface runoff in different cultivation systems and sediment production during rainfall events. In macro‐plot 1 (non‐terraced catchment [NTC]), we adopted the NTS management with up‐ and down‐slope farming without including mechanical runoff control practices, which most regional producers use. In macro‐plot 2 (best management practices [BMPs]), we optimized crop rotation by incorporating a mixture of cover crop species in autumn and implemented contour farming practices. In macroplot 3 (terraced catchment [TC]), we adopted the same soil management practices as the NTC macroplot, including mechanical runoff control using broad‐based terraces. We used rainfall data to create hyetographs, hydrographs, and sedimentographs, aiming to evaluate the impact of management practices on surface runoff and sediment production. The surface runoff was reduced by 81% (BMPs) and 88% (TC) compared to the NTC system. There was also a reduction in suspended sediment concentration, around 33% (BMPs) and 63% (TC), compared to the NTC system. Despite conservation systems have shown effectiveness in reducing surface runoff and sediment production, monitoring these systems during periods not influenced by the La Niña phenomenon is necessary to assess the impact of rainfall events on soils with conservation practices in extreme events. The study findings provide guidance and recommendations for agricultural producers and field technicians globally, offering criteria for selecting optimal soil and water management practices in no‐till systems. This promotes a conservation‐oriented approach to agriculture.

Estimation of agricultural productivity loss due to soil loss in Buayan-Malungon River Basin, Philippines: A foundation for watershed protection and agricultural development

The Buayan-Malungon River Basin (BMRB) is currently experiencing intolerable soil loss due to improper agricultural practices, and unsustainable land uses. This problem disrupts important ecosystem services such as provisioning, regulating, cultural, and supporting. This article provides an estimate of the agricultural crop productivity losses due to soil loss. The study estimates productivity losses through regression analysis by using nitrogen (N) fertilizer as a proxy for soil quality. The result revealed that N-fertilizer had a significant effect on corn yield. The predicted soil loss in BMRB in 2020 reached 41,308 tons/ha. Hence, the total soil loss cost in the river basin reached PhP 218,023,624 in 2020. This cost can be minimized if farmers practice a contour farming system as it helps to improve soil quality and control soil loss, which leads to sustainable farming and environmental sustainability.

Woody species alongside earth contour bunds enhance the soil water‐infiltration capacity in the Sahel, West Africa

AbstractLand degradation, including the loss of tree, forest and vegetation cover, and its related loss of water availability are the main constraints affecting the rainfed agricultural systems in West African Sahel and dry savanna. Therefore, farmers are implementing various soil and water conservation techniques such as zaï pits, half‐moons, contour stone and earth bunds to improve crop production through reduced erosion and enhanced water retention. This study explores the effect of woody and herbaceous vegetation established along earth contour bunds on soil infiltration capacity in southern Mali. The soil infiltration measurements were carried out from September to December 2019 using single ring infiltrometers up‐slope and down‐slope of the bunds built on contour lines in 2015 and 2016 with four types of vegetation: (1) natural annual herbaceous vegetation; (2) planted Andropogon gayanus (perennial grass); (3) planted Gliricidia sepium (woody species) and (4) planted Acacia colei (woody species). The field‐saturated hydraulic conductivity (Kfs) was estimated from the infiltration data and subjected to statistical analysis to compare the effect of the four types of vegetation on soil infiltration capacity. The results revealed significant differences in infiltration rate and Kfs between the four vegetation types. The highest infiltration rate and Kfs were observed for earth contour bunds reinforced with woody species G. sepium (299.5 ± 0.6; 45.3 ± 1.4 mm h−1), followed by A. colei (232.2 ± 2; 38.2 ± 1.6 mm h−1). These were followed by the grass A. gayanus (189.4 ± 2.5; 33.0 ± 1.7 mm h−1) and natural annual herbaceous vegetation (132 ± 2.3; 20.7 ± 1.9 mm h−1). In addition, soil water‐infiltration rate and Kfs were higher for down‐slope compared to up‐slope areas for the two woody species. In practice, it is appropriate for farmers to reinforce contour bunds with woody species and perennial herbs given the beneficial effect on soil water infiltration and retention capacity and the expected socio‐economic benefit they can get from them.

Morphometric parameters based prioritization of watersheds for soil erosion risk in Upper Jhelum Sub-catchment, India.

Soil erosion is the inherent and destructive threat affecting agricultural production and livelihood of million mouths. The increased frequency of floods and land use/land cover changes has made Upper Jhelum Sub-catchment susceptible to soil erosion risk. Morphometric based watershed prioritization for soil erosion risk may help in sustainable management of natural resources. Thus, this paper endeavors to prioritize watersheds of Upper Jhelum Sub-catchment in India based on morphometric parameters for soil erosion risk using geospatial techniques. Weights to the morphometric parameters were assigned through a multi-criteria decision method. The watersheds in the Sub-catchment have been categorized into low, medium, high and very high priority classes based on prioritization ranks that were determined by computing the compound value for the soil erosion risk, based on prioritization ranks obtained through compound value for the soil erosion risk. The results revealed 1E1D3 and 1E1D8 watersheds accorded very high priority. The watersheds namely IE1D2 and IEID4 were found under high priority. Medium priority for soil erosion risk was determined in IEID5 and IED7 watersheds while 1E1D1 and IE1D6 watersheds were identified for low priority. The study calls for implementing soil conservation practices in the Sub-catchment. The Sub-catchment can be made less hazardous for the soil erosion risk by implementing contour farming, building check dams, terrace farming, afforestation and limiting large scale overgrazing. The findings of this study may offer valuable insights for stakeholders for conservation of soil resource. The approach utilized in the study may be linked with soil loss estimation for effective conservation of natural resources in further future studies.

DEVELOPMENT OF MACHINE UNIT FOR RESOURCE-SAVING TECHNOLOGIES OF SOIL PROCESSING

Water and wind erosion are possible on crop rotation fields. By using various agrotechnical techniques, it is possible to minimize soil erosion. One of these techniques is the creation of shafts about 10 m wide and 80-100 cm high at a certain distance. Effective agrotechnical anti-erosion techniques are slitting, special porous and comb plowing, organization of soil-protective crop rotations, strip placement of winter and spring crops, grain and row crops, creation of buffer strips of grasses, liming of washed lands and drains. In the steppes or areas where the topography of arable land has a slope, it is recommended to use various technologies of minimal tillage to counteract wind and water erosion. Surface treatment of the land ensures the accumulation of plant residues in the surface layer of the soil. This increases the amount of organic matter in the upper layers, which, in turn, improves the strength of the aggregates and the resistance of the soil to the action of raindrops and wind gusts. When plowing sloping fields, contour plowing is a useful method of reducing the risk of erosion. It uses the topography of the field to absorb water, preventing it from running down the rows. Crop residue remaining on the surface is also a factor in which minimal tillage protects the land from erosion. In general, both plants and their remains on the surface effectively slow down the speed of movement of both water on the surface of the soil and air above it. From a physical point of view, plant cover growing on the surface, as well as plant residues, effectively protects the ground, for example, from the impact of raindrops. If we talk about traditional crops, it should be noted that perennial grasses provide the best protection, and cereals can moderately resist erosion. When growing row crops, such as sugar beet or corn, most of the land remains uncovered, meaning that these crops provide less protection. The worst option from the point of view of erosion is steam without growing any crops and without preserving the harvest residues on the surface. Analysis of existing machines for soil protection against wind and water erosion was carried out. The proposed design of the machine for plowless tillage.

Integrated Modeling of Land Degradation Dynamics and Insights on the Possible Future Management Alternatives in the Gidabo River Basin, Ethiopian Rift Valley

Land degradation is a pivotal environmental concern, bearing substantial impacts in the Gidabo river basin (GRB) in Ethiopia, prompting a critical need for effective mitigation strategies. In this study, we aimed to assess the dynamics of land degradation pathways in the context of change in climate and land use. The identification of potential erosion hotspots and the appraisal of management strategies was also carried out. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) and the Good Practice Guidance (GPG) framework was employed. The results revealed a compelling synergy between land use dynamics and climate changes, asserting joint and individual prevalence in influencing surface runoff and sediment yield. The past simulation revealed 4–5.9% and 24–43% increments in mean annual runoff and sediment yield, respectively. While the near (2021–2040) and mid (2041–2060) future scenarios displayed varying trends under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. Furthermore, sub-basins prone to soil erosion risk were identified, thereby enabling targeted conservation efforts. The assessment of trends in land degradation neutrality (LDN) unveiled the expansion of land degradation trajectories (by 26%) from 1985–2003 to 2003–2021. This might be attributed to the dynamic interplay between climate and land use land cover (LULC) change, with croplands and bare land emerging as high-risk degraded areas. Addressing these concerns, soil/stone bund, terracing, contour farming, and reforestation practice can significantly reduce the annual sediment yield in the future. The integration of soil erosion indicators with LDN sub-indicators can provide a more comprehensive approach that can lead to more effective land management and restoration strategies to achieve the LDN goal. The findings of this study could contribute crucial insights and substantial implications for policymakers, land managers, and conservationists. Moreover, future efforts should be directed to expand investigations into diverse land degradation pathways and mitigation measures.

Spatial Estimation of Soil Erosion Using RUSLE Model: A Case Study of Sangareddy Telangna State, India

Soil erosion is a major environmental challenge that affects agricultural productivity, water quality, and land management. To address this issue, accurate estimation and spatial mapping of soil erosion rates are essential for effective soil conservation planning and management. This study focuses on utilizing the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model to estimate and map soil erosion rates in the Sangareddy district of Telangana State, India. The RUSLE model integrates several factors contributing to soil erosion, including rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, slope length and steepness, cover management factor, and conservation practices. These factors were derived from geospatial datasets, including rainfall records, soil characteristics, topographic data, land use/land cover maps, and conservation practices information. By applying the RUSLE model, the study estimates the average annual soil erosion rates across the Sangareddy district. The spatial distribution of soil erosion is then mapped using geographic information system (GIS) techniques, providing valuable insights into the area’s most susceptible to erosion. These findings can inform decision-makers and land managers in prioritizing and implementing appropriate soil conservation strategies to mitigate erosion and protect valuable soil resources. The spatial estimation of soil erosion using the RUSLE model provides a scientific basis for land-use planning, conservation program implementation, and policy formulation to promote sustainable land management practices. It highlights the need for effective erosion control measures, such as contour farming, terracing, afforestation, and appropriate land use practices, in order to minimize soil erosion and preserve the soil quality in Sangareddy and similar regions.

Uncovering the Impact of Erosion Conservation Techiques on Soil Attributes in Shivaliks of Lower Himalayas of Jammu, India

The present study uncovering the impact of erosion conservation techniques on soil attributes in Shivaliks of lower Himalayas of Jammu. Soil erosion is considered as the main cause of land degradation in hilly areas espially in outer Himalayas. Although the problem persisted on the earth for a longer period, it has become severe in recent times due to increased man-environment interactions. The study was conducted in 2021 at the Merth village of Jammu and Kashmir, India, which is situated in the Kathua district. The catchment area investigated had a clay loam texture and a slope gradient of 3-6%, with a total area of 24.8 acres. The result shows that mean value of bulk density under various erosion control techniques was highest in overgrazing prevention (1.40g cm-3) followed by perimeter runoff control, terrace farming and contour plowing and was lowest in cover crop (1.33g cm-3). The carbon content also increased with the and was highest under cover crop. Carbon act as bridge between nutrient, water and soil. The study strongly recommends adoption of resource conservation techniques for reducing soil erosion & water conservation in submontane Shivaliks.

ANALYSIS OF CONSTRAINING FACTORS REGARDING ADOPTION OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICES IN THE POTHOHAR, PUNJAB

The current study was conducted at Institute of Agri. Extension, Education and Rural Development, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad in 2022. Rawalpindi district was selected purposively as it receives maximum rainfall. Four out of seven tehsils of Rawalpindi were selected purposively based on maximum numbers of farmers. A sample size of 381 respondents was drawn using surveysystem.com. Proportionate sampling technique was used to interview 214, 104, 32 and 31 farmers from tehsil Gujar Khan, Rawalpindi, Kotli Satiyan and Kahuta respectively. Mix methods research design was used to conduct the study. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using well-structured interview schedule and a comprehensive interview guide respectively. Research findings revealed that awareness and adoption level of farmers regarding various soil and water conservation practices was unsatisfactory. High level adoption gap was found regarding different soil and water conservation practices: crop rotation (92.4%), intercropping (99.7%), cover cropping (99.8%), terracing (96.1%), broad bed and furrow system of land configuration (96.6%), sowing drought resistant varieties (86.3%), contour farming (85%) and mulching (97.9%). It was concluded that farmers were not only deprived of the advisory services but also the required trainings and technical assistance regarding adoption of conservation measures. Therefore, provision of trainings and demonstration facilities were strongly recommended to educate the farmers regarding basic soil and water conservation measures. Moreover, farmers should also be provided with financial assistance in form of subsidized input supply.

Effects of contour farming and tillage practices on soil erosion processes in a hummocky watershed. A model-based case study highlighting the role of tramline tracks

To reduce water erosion, one of the most severe land degradation processes on arable soils, conservation measures such as contour farming or reduced tillage practices can be applied. The general effectiveness of these measures on reducing soil erosion is well understood, however, little is known about the influence on tramline tracks, which have considerable impact on the transport of sediment and runoff. This study assesses the impact of reduced and conventional tillage and slope-related tramline directions on runoff and soil erosion rates at catchment level. For this purpose, a published and freely available dataset was used consisting of soil loss and runoff data modelled for a single soil erosion event considering courses and structural properties of tramlines (cf. Saggau et al., 2022). The orientation of tramlines against the slope direction was defined as contouring efficiency (Cef) and calculated by an approach that relates slope and tramline directions. Finally, results of the statistical analyses are compared with mapped soil erosion data. Results show that i) high-resolution derivation of Cef, based on tramlines, shows reasonable results in capturing variations in slope curvatures within the fields, ii) increased Cefs can significantly reduce runoff and soil erosion in tramlines and, iii) reduced tillage indicates significantly lower runoff and soil erosion rates in tramlines and cultivated areas. The results reveal that tramlines have strong interrelations with surface runoff, water connectivity and soil erosion. The consideration of tramlines in process-based models should be employed in other model approaches as it improves assessments of soil erosion risk and efficiencies of conservation measures, which are necessary in taking appropriate actions in support of soil and water conservation.