Management of Problem Soils in Arid Ecosystems

by Balba; A. Monem

• ISBN13: 9780873718110
• ISBN10: 0873718119
• Edition: 1st
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 1995-07-14
• Publisher: CRC Press

Summary

Management of Problem Soils in Arid Ecosystems examines the challenges of managing soils in arid & semiarid regions. These soils contain low organic matter, are not leached, & accumulate lime, gypsum, and/or soluble salts, requiring special management & practices. This book discusses how to identify problems, reclaim the soils, & then use them efficiently & economically. Water management & desertification in these areas are also discussed. It contains extensive references as well as 40 tables & illustrations.

Table of Contents

The Arid Ecosystem

Elements of the Climate

Classification of the Earth to Climatic Regions

Natural Vegetative Cover in Arid Ecosystems

Soils of the Arid Ecosystems

References

Salt-Affected Soils

Introduction

The Size of the Problem

Characteristics of Salt-Affected Soils

Studies Required for Predicting Salinization Due to Upward Movement of Groundwater and its Subsequent Evaporation

Effect of Salinity on Plant Growth and Composition

References

Calcareous Soils

Introduction

Morphology

Physical Properties

Chemical and Fertility Properties

Gypsic Soils

Management of Calcareous Soils

References

Sandy Soils

Introduction

Formation of Sandy Soils

The Sandy Soils in Soil Classification Systems

Physical Characteristics

Management of Sandy Soils

References

Water Management in Arid Ecosystems

Introduction

Technologies for Increasing Water Resources

Management of Rain-Fed Agriculture

Irrigation

Drainage

Use of Low-Quality Water for Irrigation

References

Desertification

Introduction

Soil Degradation

Degradation Versus Desertification

Desertification Due to Sand Movement

Desertification of Rangeland

Desertification Due to Irrigation and Waterlogging

Combating Desertification in Rain-Fed Croplands

Complementary Measures for Combating Desertification

Soil Erosion

Water Erosion

Wind Erosion

Desertification, a Global Challenge

References

Index