A Case study of soil erosion impacts in Chena cultivation areas in Pottuvil DS Division

Abstract

Pottuvil DS division is located in Dry Zone of Sri Lanka. Based on the soil types, slopes, soil depth and erodability of soils in this D.S. Division is categorized in to clusters Sengaman, whole Komari 1 and Northern Komari 2 and Hijra Nigar and small portion of Southern Komari 2. In general soil organic matter content in top soil was less than 1% in majority of chena fields in Pottuvil. Chena cultivated area has been restricted in research area due to the security problem. However, none of the Chena lands have used soil conservation measures to reduce erosion or organic manure for enrichment soil organic carbon content and soil fertility. No incorporation of organic matter (residues) to soil is practiced; instead burn them before land preparation. Majority of farmers do not know about soil conservation and their positive impacts. Even the few farmers who possess some knowledge about soil conservation or have heard of this, they are not practicing soil conservation or organic matter addition to their Chena fields. Soil conservation measures are required especially for certain areas (Sengaman and Komari-1 Cluster) and immediate attention should be given to implementation of such measures. In most cases, cost effective best conservation measures are to establish earth bunds and live hedges.