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Soil degradation: I. Basic processes
Author(s) -
Lal R.,
Hall G. F.,
Miller F. P.
Publication year - 1989
Publication title -
land degradation and development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.403
H-Index - 81
eISSN - 1099-145X
pISSN - 1085-3278
DOI - 10.1002/ldr.3400010106
Subject(s) - land degradation , desertification , soil retrogression and degradation , environmental resource management , environmental science , natural resource , sustainable land management , soil functions , environmental degradation , natural resource management , land management , computer science , natural resource economics , environmental planning , land use , soil biodiversity , soil science , soil fertility , engineering , civil engineering , economics , soil water , ecology , biology
This paper examines soil and land degradation. It describes basic processes and factors responsible for degradation, illustrates the cause‐effect relationships and differentiates between natural and man‐induced regressive effects. The ‘critical limit’ concept is described in terms of properties beyond which the soil will not support an economically‐viable agriculture. This paper is not an exhaustive literature review but emphasizes the scientific principles involved and highlights natural against man‐induced processes. Important natural processes are: laterization, hard‐setting, fragipan and clay pan formation, and geologic erosion. In comparison, man‐induced processes consist of: soil compaction, accelerated erosion, desertification, salt accumulation and leaching and acidification. One of the principal constraints is the problem of data reliability. A reliable database and precise criteria are definitely lacking and hinder the assessment of the extent, type and degree of soil degradation and establishing the cause‐effect scenario. Improving our database is, therefore, of a high priority if we are to adopt land use policy for sustainable soil management and long‐range resource management. Also outlined, are vital research and development strategies. Judicious resource management policy should emphasize managing prime agricultural land to produce to its maximum potential so that there is no need to cultivate marginal and easily‐degraded fragile ecosystems. A strict code of conduct is needed for utilizing marginal/fragile lands. Methods of restoring the productivity of degraded lands must be researched so as to minimize the need to clear and develop new lands.