2023/12/31 by Dame, Tariku, Kitila, Getahun, Emiru, Getu
#Impact #Soil Erosion #Soil Productivity #Soil Properties
paper · doi:10.20372/star.v12i4.04
Soil is one of the natural resources highly affected by the impacts of soil erosion, and as a result, it decreases soil productivity, which helps crop production and enhances its yield. Therefore, this study was highly focused on the investigation of soil erosion hazards and their implication on selected soil properties at Chancho Watershed, Diga District, and Western Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of soil erosion hazards on selected soil properties in the study areas. Surface soil samples (0–20 cm) were collected to analyse soil properties using standard methods. The tested soil samples were analyzed by SAS software. The results showed that soil properties varied in the studied areas. The textures of the soil were clay and clay loam. The organic carbon (SOC) content of the soil ranged from low (2.979%) to moderate (3.121%). The soil reaction varied from 5.19 to 5.32 (strongly acidic). The available phosphorus (P) contents of the soil ranged from low (3.311 ppm) to moderate (10.771 ppm). Available potassium ranged from low (2.157 ppm) to moderate (2.625 ppm). The catalytic ion exchange capacity of the soils ranged from moderate (28.943 cmol kg1) to high (30.236 cmol kg1). Consequently, poorly managed cultivation and soil erosion deteriorate soil quality. Therefore, appropriate reclamation methods should be applied to soils with low nutrient contents, low CEC, low SOC, and high soil acidity to improve productivity. Appropriate land uses and physical soil and water conservation structures are also required to be practiced according to the position of the slopes of the land to sustain fertile and healthy soil for the coming generation.