Characterization of the Soil Properties of Different Agricultural Land Uses
Chapter One
Objective of the study
This research seeks to:
- Assess the quantitative differences in soil properties across different agricultural land uses.
- Identify patterns and trends in soil properties associated with specific agricultural practices.
- Investigate the underlying mechanisms responsible for observed changes in soil properties.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITRERATURE
Soil characteristics
Soil can be characterized by its structure, color, consistence, texture, and abundance of roots, rocks, and carbonates. These characteristics allow scientists to interpret how the ecosystem functions and make recommendations for soil use that have a minimal impact on the ecosystem. For example, soil characterization data can help determine whether a garden should be planted or a school should be built. Soil characterization data can help scientists predict the likelihood of flooding and drought. It can help them to determine the types of vegetation and land use best suited to a location (Globe, 2005). Characterization of soils is fundamental to all soil studies, as it is an important tool for soil classification, which is done based on soil properties. Soil characterization also helps to document soil properties at research sites, which is essential for the successful transfer of research results to other locations (Buol et al., 2003). Therefore, it is important to characterize the soil of the research site and further investigate the soil type although the soil of the area is broadly said to be Ultisols (Ministry of Agriculture, 1995). Most soils have a distinct profile, which is a vertical section of soil through all its horizons and extends up to the parent materials or it is sequence of horizontal layers (Pidwirny, 2007). Generally, these horizons result from the processes of chemical weathering, eluviations, illuviation, and organic decomposition. A study of soil profile is important both from the standpoint of soil formation and soil development (pedology) and crop husbandry (edaphology) since it reveals the surface and the subsurface characteristics and qualities, namely depth, texture, structure, drainage conditions and soil-moisture relationships. In deep soils the soil profile may be studied up to one meter and a quarter and in others up to the parent material. The layers (horizons) in the soil profile which vary in thickness may be distinguished from the morphological characteristics which include colour, texture, structure, etc. Generally, the profile consists of 3 mineral horizons ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘C’. The ‘A’ horizon may consist of sub-horizons richer in organic matter intimately mixed with mineral matter. The ‘B’ horizon is below the’A’ horizon showing dominant features of concentration of clay, iron, aluminum of humus alone or in combination. The C horizon is composed of weathered parent material. Soils widely vary in their characteristics and properties. In order to establish the interrelationship between their characteristics they require to be classified. Understanding the properties of the soils is important in respect of the optimum use they can be put to and for their best management requirements. It helps to group together such soils as have comparable characteristics so that the knowledge regarding them is presented in a systematic manner. To classify soils and group them together in a meaningful manner different systems of soil classification have been used from time to time. The modern system of classification “Soil Taxonomy”, which has six categories: order, sub-order, great group, sub-group, family and series, developed by the USDA has been recommended for adoption all over the world. According to this system of soil classification, soils are classified in to Entisols, Inceptisols, Alfisols, Vertisols, Ultisols, Oxisols, Aridisols, Histosols, Gelisols, Andisols, Molisols. Alfisols are widely used for agriculture because of its natural fertility, location in humid and sub humid regions, and responsiveness to good management. The central concept of Alfisols is that of forest soils, which occupy relatively stable landscape positions and thus have a subsurface zone of clay accumulation (Buol et al., 2003). Five prerequisites are met by soils of Alfisol-dominated landscapes: (1) accumulation of enough layer lattice clay (of any species) in the sub soil (often a Bt horizon) to form argillic (Buol et al., 2003; Landon, 1984; Young, 1976; Bridges, 1970), kandic, or natric horizons, (2) relatively high base (calcium, magnesium, potassium, and sodium) status, with base saturation by sum of cations greater than 35% in the lower part of or below the argillic or kandic horizon and usually increasing with depth, (3) contrasting soil horizons, which under deciduous forest include O, A, E, and Bt, with the possibility in various ecosystems of the presence of natric, petrocalcic, duripan, and fragipan horizons, and plinthite, (4) favorable moisture regimes (aquic, cryic, udic, ustic, and xeric soil moisture regimes), with water available to mesophytic plants more than half the year or for three consecutive months in a warm season;
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
POPULATION OF THE STUDY
According to Udoyen (2019), a study population is a group of elements or individuals as the case may be, who share similar characteristics. These similar features can include location, gender, age, sex or specific interest. The emphasis on study population is that it constitutes of individuals or elements that are homogeneous in description.
This study was carried to examine Characterization of the soil properties of different agricultural land uses. Selected farmers in Owo, Ondo state forms the population of the study.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain Characterization of the soil properties of different agricultural land uses. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing characterization of the soil properties of different agricultural land uses.
Summary
This study was on Characterization of the soil properties of different agricultural land uses. Three objectives were raised which included; Assess the quantitative differences in soil properties across different agricultural land uses, identify patterns and trends in soil properties associated with specific agricultural practices and investigate the underlying mechanisms responsible for observed changes in soil properties. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from farmers from Owo, Ondo state. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
In summary, the characterization of soil properties across diverse agricultural land uses offers a profound understanding of the intricate relationship between human activities, management practices, and the soil environment. Through the lens of croplands, pastures, orchards, agroforestry systems, horticultural systems, and rice paddies, this exploration has illuminated key insights into how distinct land use practices shape soil properties and, in turn, influence soil health, productivity, and sustainability.
Each agricultural land use exhibits unique interactions with soil properties, driven by practices ranging from tillage and irrigation to vegetation cover and nutrient management. The challenges posed by soil degradation, erosion, and nutrient depletion underscore the critical importance of comprehending how these practices impact soil texture, structure, pH, organic matter content, nutrient distribution, and microbial dynamics.
However, this characterization is not without its limitations. The complexity of agricultural systems, coupled with inherent variability and the influence of external factors, necessitates cautious interpretation of results. Spatial and temporal dynamics, the intricacies of agroecosystems, and the need to account for confounding variables present challenges that require judicious study design and robust methodologies.
Nonetheless, the significance of this characterization cannot be overstated. It empowers stakeholders—from farmers and land managers to policymakers and researchers—with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions. The insights gleaned from this characterization serve as a foundation for sustainable land management, optimized crop selection, and the development of practices that balance agricultural production with environmental preservation.
In essence, the characterization of soil properties across various agricultural land uses bridges the gap between theoretical understanding and practical implementation. It propels the pursuit of agricultural systems that not only meet the demands of a growing global population but also safeguard the health and resilience of our precious soil resources for generations to come. As we stand at the nexus of food security, environmental stewardship, and land productivity, the comprehensive characterization of soil properties stands as a cornerstone of responsible and sustainable agricultural progress.
Recommendation
Building on the insights gained from the characterization of soil properties across different agricultural land uses, several recommendations emerge that can guide future research endeavors and inform sustainable land management practices:
- Long-Term Monitoring: Conduct long-term studies that capture the temporal dynamics of soil properties under various land uses. This will enable a deeper understanding of how soil responds to different management practices over extended periods.
- Multi-Scale Analysis: Embrace multi-scale approaches to account for the spatial heterogeneity of soil properties. Incorporate remote sensing, geostatistical techniques, and advanced modeling to capture fine-scale variations and understand broader regional trends.
- Integrated Approaches: Explore integrated agricultural systems that combine multiple land uses, such as agroforestry and rotational cropping. Investigate how these systems influence soil properties and provide opportunities for synergistic benefits.
- Soil Health Indices: Develop holistic soil health indices that integrate various soil properties and biological indicators. These indices can provide actionable insights for land managers to gauge soil quality and track improvements.
- Precision Agriculture: Harness the potential of precision agriculture technologies to tailor management practices to specific soil properties. Utilize soil sensors, GIS, and data analytics to optimize resource use and minimize environmental impacts.
- Cover Cropping and Crop Rotation: Investigate the benefits of cover cropping and crop rotation in maintaining soil health and preventing degradation. Study their impact on soil erosion, nutrient cycling, and microbial diversity.
- Education and Extension: Implement educational programs that disseminate knowledge about the relationships between land use practices and soil properties. Empower farmers with information to make informed decisions that support sustainable practices.
- Policy Support: Develop policies that incentivize sustainable land management practices. Integrate soil conservation practices into agricultural policies to promote responsible land use and prevent soil degradation
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