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Modern agriculture faces the challenge of increasing production without expanding cultivated areas, promoting sustainable practices that ensure food security and environmental preservation. Integrated crop–livestock systems (ICLSs) stand out as an effective strategy, diversifying and intensifying agricultural production in a sustainable manner, ensuring adequate soil cover, and improving nutrient cycling efficiency. Thus, this study aimed to explore and compare integrated crop–livestock systems with Zuri guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri) and Quênia guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Quênia) against the conventional soybean/maize succession method in a tropical region, and how these systems affect biomass decomposition, C:N ratio, nutrient cycling, and fertilizer equivalents. A field experiment was conducted in two phases: the first in the second-crop season and the second in the main season, using a randomized block design with four replicates. The treatments consisted of two ICLS systems, one with Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses established after soybean, and a succession system with maize established after soybean. The results indicated that Quênia guinea grass showed greater desiccation efficiency, with an injury rate of 86.5% at 21 days, 8.5% higher compared to Zuri guinea grass. In terms of biomass, Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses had average productions of 7021.1 kg ha−1, which was 43.25% higher compared to maize biomass. The biomass decomposition of the grasses was faster due to their lower C:N ratio, resulting in greater nutrient release into the soil. Both forage grasses (Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses) are suitable for integrated crop–livestock systems, as they showed similar biomass production and nutrient accumulation. Soybean yield was not influenced by the different cropping systems, showing similar results between the biomass of Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses and maize. However, grass biomass enriches the soil more through the return of fertilizer equivalents, which in future studies could be considered for the reduction of mineral fertilizers, ensuring greater sustainability of agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Realistic estimates of evaporation from unsaturated soils, which are important for many geotechnical and geoenvironmental applications, need to be considered in the context of soil settlement, and require thermohydromechanical (THM) analysis. Evaporation also depends on environmental parameters, including air temperature, air relative humidity, net radiation, and wind speed. Therefore, a consideration of atmospheric coupling in predicting evaporation is also necessary. In this study, the two-dimensional model EVAP1––which numerically estimates evaporation from unsaturated soil using THM and employing a soil–atmosphere model––was used to conduct a parametric study in order to investigate the effects of variation in environmental parameters and to study the effects of climate change on potential and actual evaporation and soil settlement. We found that the evaporation rate increased nonlinearly with increases in air temperature, net radiation, and wind speed, but decreases with an increase in relative humidity. However, the effect of a change in wind speed was less than the effect of a change in the three other environmental parameters. In addition, the change in evaporation rate differed in different regions with different air temperatures. For example, the temperature change had more of an effect on the evaporation rate at higher temperatures. In addition, neglecting soil settlement led to an overestimation of evaporation, albeit the amount of evaporation was almost the same whether soil settlement was considered or not, both at the beginning of the evaporation process, when potential evaporation was dominant, and at the end, when the water content in both cases had decreased almost to the residual water content, and the evaporation was minimized. The difference in the amount of evaporation was greater in the middle of the evaporation process, when actual evaporation dominated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The article explores the Kyzyl-Kum Desert and the Aral Sea plant and soil cover, the plant characteristics and regionalized cultural crops thriving in these regions, and the extraction of highquality and environment-friendly products from that flora. This initiative aims to prevent the dispersal of 100 million tons of dust-salt mixture from the dried bed of the Aral Sea, carried by wind and storms and deposited onto agricultural fields. Therefore, in this area, the phytoremediation process through establishing saxaul plantations is crucial. Each saxaul tree bush can preserve more tons of sand with its roots, demonstrating robust growth in saline lands while utilizing mineralized groundwater. Additionally, saxaul trees contribute to maintaining the critical depth of groundwater within the normal range. Consequently, this approach is the area's natural barrier against secondary soil salinization and erosion processes. Similarly, it is noteworthy that today, the country's population is growing fast, increasing its demand for food products. Based on this, obtaining high-quality and ecologically clean products from each cultivated agricultural crop is one of the most urgent issues today and the prime purpose of conducting research in these areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relevance. Lake Ebeyty is the largest salt lake in the Omsk region, located in the south-west of the region, at the junction of the borders of three regions: Poltava, Moskalensky and Isilkulsky, and has huge reserves of medicinal mud. The purpose of the research is to study the characteristics of the chemical composition of Lake Ebeyty water over the years of research (data from 2011, 2019, 2022 and 2023) and soil cover.Material and Methodology. The paper presents the results of studies of the chemical composition of the water of Lake Ebeyty in the period 2011-2019-2022-2023. In this work, satellite data analysis methods were used to identify relief features and changes in the area of the water surface (archive of satellite images for 10 years) of the study area in the QGIS software product. Water samples were taken during the daytime for chemical analysis using generally accepted methods.Results. An assessment of the ecological state of the lake was carried out. As a result of the research, it was established: an increase in oxidation from 53.04 mgO2/l in 2011 to 208.0 mgO2/l in 2022, in 2023 the figure decreases to 150.4 mgO2/l, which indicates a deterioration in the ecological situation of the water body. Mineralization increases over the years of research from 128054 to 268691 mg/l (respectively). The soil cover is rep-resented by soils of the saline series - solonchaks and solonetzes.

The distribution of stable iodine and humus in the upper horizon (0–20 cm) of various types of soils of the Bryansk and Oryol regions used as pastures has been studied. Soil sampling was carried out with a hand stick drill in layers in the depth interval: 0–5 cm, 5-10 cm and 10–20 cm. Iodine content was determined by kinetic rhodanide-nitrite method. Corg content was determined by the bichromate method of Tyurin. The work includes data from both long-term studies of the iodine content in the soil cover of the Bryansk region (2008–2020) and new data from expeditionary studies in the Oryol region (2022). It is shown that the soils of the Bryansk pastures are depleted of iodine and organic carbon (OC) in comparison with the Oryol region, which corresponds to the change of soil cover composition from west to east. The humus content in soils was determined and statistically significant correlation between iodine and C org. content in pasture soils were obtained (from r = 0.28 in Chernozems to r = 0.49 in Haplic Albeluvisols; in addition, for the whole sample (n = 48) the correlation coefficient ranged from 0.31 in the 0–5 cm layer to 0.43 in the 10–20 cm layer). The dependence of iodine accumulation on the OC content in different types of soils (Chernozems, Grey-Luvic Phaeozems, Umbric Albeluvisols, Haplic Albeluvisols) and their hydromorphism has been established. The identified differences in soil iodine fixation should be considered as they may influence iodine intake levels in pasture animal milk and local rations.

AbstractSoil cover biomass in integrated systems can improve agronomic characteristics and impact in soybean productivity. Thus, the objective is to evaluate the desiccation efficiency, biomass production, nutrient accumulation, and soybean productivity in Quênia guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Quênia) biomass after with an intercropped with maize in different forms of seeding, in compare the conventional soybean. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replicates. The treatments consisted of cover crop biomass: maize monoculture; Quênia guinea grass monoculture; maize intercropped with Quênia guinea grass within rows; maize intercropped with Quênia guinea grass between rows and an additional soybean treatment without cover biomass. The results showed that the Quênia guinea grass in the different cropping systems presented high desiccation efficiency, showing potential as a cover plant in integrated systems. The intercropping system of maize with Quênia guinea grass between rows is more recommended than seeding in the same rows as maize, because it promotes greater biomass production and nutrient cycling, reflecting in higher soybean productivity. The integrated production systems is a promising and efficient technology for production systems compared to the system of monoculture maize and soybeans without soil cover biomass, which ensures greater sustainability of agricultural systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vineyard soils are often of inherently poor quality with low organic carbon content. Management can improve soil properties and thus soil fertility. In European wine‐growing regions, a broad range of inter‐row management strategies evolved based on specific local site conditions and the varying effects of management intensities on soil, water balance, yield and grape quality. Accordingly, there is a need to investigate the effects of locally common cover crop management strategies and tillage intensity on soil organic carbon content and soil physical parameters. In this study, we investigated the impact of the most common inter‐row management practices in Austria, France, Romania and Spain. In all countries, we compared paired sites. Each site with cover crops and inter‐row management of low intensity was compared with one site with (temporarily) bare soil and high management intensity. All studied sites with cover crops and low management intensity, except those in Spain, had higher organic carbon contents than the paired more intensively managed vineyards. However, the highly water‐limited Spanish vineyards with temporary cover crops had lower organic carbon contents than the paired sites with bare soil. Sites with more organic carbon had better results for bulk density, percolation stability (PS), hydraulic conductivity and available soil water, with soil hydraulic parameters being less pronounced than others. Country comparison of inter‐row weed control systems showed that PS was particularly low in sampled vineyards in Romania and Spain, where weed control is based on intensive mechanical tillage. Alternating management systems with tillage every second inter‐row showed a decrease in soil structure compared with permanent green cover. Thus, inter‐row management with cover crops and reduced tillage increases soil organic carbon content and improves soil structure compared with bare soil management. If local constraints, such as water scarcity, do not allow year‐round planting, alternating inter‐row management with several years of alternating periods may be an option to mitigate those adverse effects. However, negative impact on the soil structure occurs with the very first tillage operation, whereas negative effects on the carbon balance only appear after long‐term use of tillage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing cucumbers (Cucumis sativus) is an alternative way of diversifying income for family farmers. For this crop, the use of soil bioactivators and mulchings can result in productivity gains and quality fruit, contributing to sustainable agriculture. The aim of this research was to evaluate soil temperature and humidity, growth, productivity, and the quality of cucumbers using soil bioactivators and organic mulches. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design, in a factorial scheme, where factor 1 bioactivator with and without bioactivator application, and factor 2 mulching, formed with soil covered by black oats and without mulching, with five repetitions. The cucumber cultivar evaluated was Amour. We found that the presence of organic mulch conserves soil moisture in the 0-20 and 20-40cm layers, and reduces soil temperature, which favors moisture retention and thermal comfort for the plants at the hottest times of the day. Plant height (350.03 cm) and the relative chlorophyll index (54.00) were significantly higher when mulched with a soil bioactivator. Similarly, there were increases in total fresh fruit mass (2.25 kg plant-1), yield (55.6 t ha-1), soluble solids content (5.75%) and total titratable acidity (0.14%), resulting in sweeter fruit of quality for the pickling industry. The soil bioactivator and mulching with organic cover (oat straw) reduced soil temperature, and contributed to gains in productivity and fruit quality, making them sustainable management practices for cucumber growing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conservation systems involving trees enhance the sustainability of tropical soils. However, little is known on the effect of integrated systems with native and exotic trees on soil chemical quality in the eastern Amazon. We aimed to measure changes in soil chemical quality in integrated production systems in Pindaré-Mirim, Maranhão, Brazil. This study was carried out in 2017 and 2018, evaluating (i) perennial pasture; (ii) crop–livestock–forest integration-I (CLFI-I)—eucalyptus rows interspersed with maize + Urochloa brizantha intercropping; (iii) CLFI-II—babassu palm trees (Attalea speciosa Mart.) with maize + Megathyrsus maximus intercropping; and (iv) maize + M. maximus intercropping. Soil chemical attributes at depths of 0.00–0.10 m, 0.10–0.20 m, 0.20–0.30 m, and 0.30–0.50 m, forage productivity, and soil cover were evaluated. CLFI-II promoted the highest soil organic matter concentration in topsoil and highest pH, lowest Al3+ levels, and potential acidity (H+Al) at all soil depths. Soil under pasture showed the highest N, K+, Ca2+ concentrations, sum of bases, and cation exchange capacity. Changes in CLFI-II are associated with the babassu palm's ability to modulate the surrounding environment, giving the species a competitive advantage in anthropic environments. The time of adoption is crucial for improving soil fertility in the Brazilian eastern Amazon. Sustainable production systems in the region must comply with long-term management plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the use of plastic mulch and percolation barrier on the growth and distribution of pineapple roots. The BRS Imperial cultivar was cultivated using plastic as mulching material and a percolation barrier. The evaluated variables were: relative and absolute root growth rates, root length distribution, and root length density. The use of plastic mulch resulted in a greater accumulation of root dry matter, with or without the percolation barrier. Under drip irrigation, mulching promoted a greater root development. The highest root growth rate occurred from 360 to 450 days after planting. The amount of roots was from 64.1 to 66.7% on the stem, and from 34 to 36% distributed in the 0.10 and 0.20 m soil layer. Black plastic, as mulch or a percolation barrier, contributes to increase the root development of 'BRS Imperial' pineapple under drip irrigation.

The explosion at the Kahovka dam led to formation of new dried-up areas at the bottom of the Kahovka Reservoir, which have specific relief and mechanical composition of soil. Vegetation that has been forming in those dried-up areas for over one year now is already undergoing the first stages of succession and is characterized by high spatial non-uniformity. The study consisted of three main stages: analysis of dynamics of outflow from the reservoir and development of a scheme of hydrographic network at the site of the reservoir’s bed, analysis of soil cover, and analysis of formation of vegetative cover. We analyzed the possibility of combined use of the data of ground monitoring and remote sensing of the course and consequences of the drying. According to the reports of the Ukrainian Hydro-Meteorological Center of the State Service of Ukraine, a chronology of the emptying of the Kahovka Reservoir was created. The hydrological regime of the newly formed territory was identified using a series of satellite images. The dataset was compiled from Level-2 images from Landsat 8 and 9. Sentinel 2 was used as an additional resource. The images were processed using the Sentinel Application Platform (SNAP). We found the effect which the debris of the Kahovka dam has had on the flood level in the area. We observed recovery of the streambed network of the Dnipro River to its state before construction of the Kahovka dam. The hydraulics of the formed floodplains is complex. There are streams with signs of yet uncompleted meandering and many arms. Clustering of spectral characteristics and interpretation of the normalized NDCI and NDWI indices revealed that the spatial non-homogenous structure of the soil cover of dried-up bed of the reservoir is formed by four types of soil: eutric relictigleyic fluvisols, eutric gleyic fluvisols, eutric fluvic gleysols, eutric fluvic subaquatic gleysols. The soils are characterized by diverse granulometric composition (sand, sandy loam, loam, and clay) and various degrees of soil moisture. In the reservoir’s bed, the commonest soils were found to be eutric gleyic fluvisols. We determined the effect of granulometric composition and soil moisture content on the intensity of overgrowth of the reservoir’s bed. We analyzed the general dynamics of the overgrowth of the reservoir’s bed.

Establishing lucerne (Medicago sativa) in dryland conditions poses challenges due to unpredictable rainy seasons and seedling vulnerability. A potential solution is adopting a nurse crop during the first year in the same field. This study aimed to assess the impact of wheat as a nurse crop and crop residue on lucerne establishment in South Africa's Mediterranean climate region. The experiment employed a split-plot design with two treatment factors across six blocks. Half of the area received wheat straw, while the rest had low residue content with almost bare soil. The nurse crop combinations included wheat alone, lucerne alone, and a wheat-lucerne mixture. Results revealed competition between wheat and lucerne when planted together. When plant populations, total biomass, wheat grain yield and grain quality were considered, wheat performed better in pure stands, as did lucerne when grown without wheat. Germination of lucerne was significantly impacted by high crop residue levels. Wheat achieved superior grain yield without crop residue, despite producing less biomass. Results indicated that it is advisable to avoid using a nurse cropping system for lucerne in this Mediterranean climate region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of land conservation methods for forest conservation and restoration is important and relevant from the standpoint of balanced use of natural resources and biodiversity conservation. The purpose of the study was to investigate effective strategies for the exploitation of land with self-forested areas to meet the needs of the agricultural sector of the Zolochiv District of the Lviv Oblast. In the course of the study, the following methods were used: analysis; geographical method; statistical method; cartographic method; geoinformation method. It is worth noting that for the land plot No. 1 within the Buska territorial community of Lviv Oblast, it was recommended to conserve the land, with its subsequent renaturalisation. According to the results of the analysis, it is shown that in 2011 the processes of independent afforestation of agricultural land within the Busk territorial community were insignificant. In 2023, the situation improved, as the area of afforded land increased significantly. To the soils of the land plot No. 2, which was part of the Brody urban community, it was advisable to use conservation and transformation. In the Zolochiv community, 14.2 hectares of land should be rehabilitated, 27.3 hectares should be transformed into pasture, and 3.5 hectares should be alkalised. The paper suggests the introduction of innovative approaches for integrated planning of the use of forest resources: creation of forest farms, development of forest tourism, creation of special forest stands for air filtration, application of bio-refining technology, etc. The findings can be used by local communities to develop and implement a draft of measures for the comprehensive development plan of the territory of the Lviv Oblast to improve forest ecosystem services [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing wildfire frequency in the Mediterranean Basin could affect future plant-soil–water-dynamics. The capacity of soils to retain water is a key parameter affecting plant post-fire regeneration. Yet, few research has looked at how different soil properties related to water retention is affected by increasing wildfire frequency. This study aimed at understanding the relationship between wildfire frequency, soil–water-related properties and the dynamics of surface water in soils. To this, after a 2012-summer wildfire in Portugal, three sets of three replicate maritime pine stands with contrasted wildfire frequency were selected (0 vs. 1 vs. 4 fires since 1975). At each of the nine study sites, three re-sprouter shrubs and neighbouring bare soil were chosen (54 microsites). There, soil cover, soil–water retention curves and surface (0–5 cm) soil–water-related properties (texture, bulk density, organic matter content, soil moisture, soil surface water repellency) were monitored for one year. Furthermore, records of post-fire soil moisture dynamics were analysed continuously using 72 probes installed at 2.5 and 7.5 cm depth. The hillslopes affected by 1 fire showed higher plant recovery than the 4 fires hillslopes. During the dry season, the threshold for water stress was reached 17 days sooner in the 4 fires hillslopes, and also 10 days sooner on bare microsites. Periods of plant water stress were longer and bare soil patches size bigger. The increase in wildfire frequency promoted high soil organic matter contents but less available water content, stressing the importance of soil organic matter quality characterization in water-related properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil rating is a comparative characteristic of the quality of arable land and other areas, assessed in points. It is carried out on the basis of special soil surveys, taking into account the supply of nutrients and other factors that determine the level of natural fertility. Soil rating is a necessary starting point for the economic assessment of land, determining the standard price and creating a land cadastre. The article presents the results of a comprehensive study aimed at determining the qualitative characteristics of the soil cover of the Republic of Adygea. As a result of determining the quality score, it is possible to predict how much agricultural land will be harvested in the future, as well as to determine the sowing plan for this area for the year. Determining the soil quality score is also important when resolving issues such as regulation of land relations, timely adoption of measures to improve land plots that are unsatisfactory in terms of indicators. Establishing a quality score allows for high-quality implementation of agrotechnical, hydraulic and chemical measures in those areas that are considered the worst as a result of determining soil quality. The groups of soils established during rating, which are quantitatively characterized by certain natural characteristics, form the information basis for the economic assessment of land, the data of which are important for the rational use of selected agricultural production groups, taking into account their natural characteristics. Based on the conducted research, recommendations are offered for using the obtained assessment results for the cultivation of various agricultural crops. The importance of using the results of soil assessment to improve the efficiency of land use, improve agricultural production and ensure sustainable development of the region has been emphasized.

Modern agriculture faces the challenge of increasing production without expanding cultivated areas, promoting sustainable practices that ensure food security and environmental preservation. Integrated crop–livestock systems (ICLSs) stand out as an effective strategy, diversifying and intensifying agricultural production in a sustainable manner, ensuring adequate soil cover, and improving nutrient cycling efficiency. Thus, this study aimed to explore and compare integrated crop–livestock systems with Zuri guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Zuri) and Quênia guinea grass (Panicum maximum cv. BRS Quênia) against the conventional soybean/maize succession method in a tropical region, and how these systems affect biomass decomposition, C:N ratio, nutrient cycling, and fertilizer equivalents. A field experiment was conducted in two phases: the first in the second-crop season and the second in the main season, using a randomized block design with four replicates. The treatments consisted of two ICLS systems, one with Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses established after soybean, and a succession system with maize established after soybean. The results indicated that Quênia guinea grass showed greater desiccation efficiency, with an injury rate of 86.5% at 21 days, 8.5% higher compared to Zuri guinea grass. In terms of biomass, Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses had average productions of 7021.1 kg ha−1, which was 43.25% higher compared to maize biomass. The biomass decomposition of the grasses was faster due to their lower C:N ratio, resulting in greater nutrient release into the soil. Both forage grasses (Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses) are suitable for integrated crop–livestock systems, as they showed similar biomass production and nutrient accumulation. Soybean yield was not influenced by the different cropping systems, showing similar results between the biomass of Zuri and Quênia guinea grasses and maize. However, grass biomass enriches the soil more through the return of fertilizer equivalents, which in future studies could be considered for the reduction of mineral fertilizers, ensuring greater sustainability of agricultural systems.

The paper refers to certain aspects of risk that have influenced the climate changes of the last two decades, especially after the year 2000. Updated data from the representative meteorological stations belonging to the Banat-Crișana Regional Meteorological Centre are presented. More extensive research was carried out in the case of thermal regime, pluviometric regime, and wind regime, regarding the evolution and deviations of these parameters in western and southwestern Romania compared to the national level. From 1960 until now, average temperatures have increased by up to 1.5°C in the Banat area and by 2-3°C in southern Romania, especially in the summer months. It is also worth noting the anomalies that occurred after 2000. At national level, 2019 was the warmest year. In the period 2012-2022, the most positive thermal anomalies were recorded (0.7-1.9°C), making it the warmest period of 10 consecutive years in the history of meteorological measurements recorded in Romania, with negative effects on soil cover and agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today the rate of anthropogenic transformations of the soil cover significantly exceeds the rate of its natural restoration. According to a modern digital soil map at a scale of 1 : 200,000 in the Leningrad Region anthropogenically modified subtypes of natural soils, which were formed as a result of human economic activity, predominate. The article considers anthropogenic changes in soils and soil cover of the territory of the high-voltage power line. The study area of 100×500 meters is located in the Tikhvinsky district between the settlements of Kalivets and Novaya Ust-Kapsha. The landscape of the territory belongs to the lake-glacial plain, the soil-forming rocks are lake-glacial sands and sandy loam. Natural soils that are not affected by technological works are found only in the forest, outside the clearing laid during the construction of the power line. These are Albic Podzol, Entic Podzol, Histic Albic Podzol, Histic Entic Podzol and Histic Gleysol. It was revealed that in the study area, the horizons of the original natural soils are partially or completely cut off, turbated, compacted, which led to the formation of their anthropogenically transformed subtypes: over-compacted, abraded, turbid and stratified. Sometimes soil material is exposed to the surface and moved over the study area by tens of meters. After the construction of the high-voltage line, new formations appeared in the soil cover, such as Podzol Nudispodic, buried soils and several types of non-soil formations. It is revealed that each technological operation (logging, installation of power transmission line supports, organization of places for technological operations and the creation of temporary roads) is characterized by its own special disturbances in the soil cover. Thus, after the construction of the power line, there were no natural soils with an undisturbed structure in the soil cover. In addition to the fundamental transformation of the soil cover at the site, natural vegetation was reduced, the mesorelief was partially disrupted and the microrelief was almost completely changed. All these anthropogenic transformations will affect the quality of the ecological functions of the soil cover. During the further operation of power transmission lines, such as clearing a cut-out clearing, updating fire-prevention mineralized strips, maintaining the power grid, disturbances of the soil cover will be periodically repeated, preventing the ecosystem from returning to its original state.

The study established the classification position of the soils of the Dnipro River valley (within the Dnipro-Orilsky Nature Reserve) according to the international WRB classification. The pits were laid along three transects that passed through the most significant relief gradients within the study area. The study of the morphological structure of 20 soil profiles showed that the soil cover is closely related to the geo-morphological structure of the river valley. The morphological characteristics of typical profiles of these soils reflect their structure, properties and genesis and determine the classification position of the soils according to the WRB. Multidimensional scaling allowed us to perform soil ordination in the space of two dimensions. Dimension 1 differentiates soils by the gradient of relief height and/or moisture level. Dimension 2 differentiated hydromorphic soils. The properties of Quaternary sediments were found to determine the position of soils at both levels of classification (reference groups, main and additional classifiers). The distribution of each of the reference groups is clearly related to the geomorphology of the valley. Arenosols and Cambisols form the soil cover of the floodplain terrace, while Fluvisols and Gleysols are found mainly in the floodplain.

Using foliage of woody species as soil cover (SC) in agroforestry systems is an agroecological technique which may help to confront great challenges to food production, including conservation of soil moisture, provision of nutrients to the soil, and weed control. This study evaluated the effect of adding foliage of Leucaena leucocephala and Guazuma ulmifolia as SC on diversity, abundance, biomass, and potential for suppression of weeds. Eight treatments were established based on addition or not of foliage of woody species as SC to maize crop between alleys of the woody species. Richness, density, diversity, and production of weed biomass at 35, 65, and 95 days after germination of maize were recorded, and the potential for weed suppression was calculated. The study identified 47 weed species belonging to 18 families; no significant effect of addition of foliage on diversity and density of weeds was found. Production of biomass was significantly greater in the control treatment without woody species or SC than in the other treatments, while the greatest potential for suppression (40%) was found for the treatment with SC of foliage of both woody species. It was concluded that addition of foliage of L. leucocephala and G. ulmifolia as SC reduces weed biomass, increasing potential for weed suppression. Therefore, use of foliage of these species in alley cropping agroforestry systems contributes to weed control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable cropping systems can enhance the development of young coffee plants under drought conditions. The objective of this study was to evaluate the behavior of coffee plants grown under different cover crops, soil conditioners, and fertilizers to reduce the effects of water scarcity. The treatments were the association of soil cover management (Urochloa decumbens, polyethylene film, and bare soil), fertilizers (conventional and controlled release), and soil conditioners (coffee husk, agricultural gypsum, water-retaining polymer, organic compost, and control). The assessments carried out were the growth, physiology, and anatomy of coffee plants and soil moisture and resistance to penetration. A multivariate analysis of the results was performed. The coffee plants grown with soil cover (Urochloa decumbens) and organic conditioners (coffee husk and organic compost) had better agronomic performance and higher soil moisture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the regional features of the natural components and landscape structure of the Makazhoy basin as a natural resource potential for the potential development of regenerative animal husbandry in the mountainous part of the Chechen Republic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article studies the morphological and physicochemical properties of soils in the natural habitat of dandelion kok-saghyz (Taraxacum kok-saghyz L.E. Rodin) (TKS)—a source of high-quality rubber. The purpose of the work is to study the natural soil habitat of dandelion TKS in comparison with the nearby area where TKS is absent. The methods of soil research are comparative, geographical, morphological, and analytical. Soil sections were laid down and georeferenced, and relief, vegetation, and morphological structures of soil profiles by genetic horizons were described. A database of the physical and chemical properties of soils by horizon was created. Landscapes and soil conditions of in situ populations have been studied in the Kegen District of the Almaty region in the territory of the Kegen River floodplain, in the areas of the Jalauly and Kegen villages, and in the zone of groundwater inclination north of Saryzhas village. The natural soil habitat of TKS was studied. It was found that TKS grows in conditions of moisture floodplains of intermountain valleys on saline floodplain meadowy soils of a sulfate–sodium composition with a high content of total humus and nutrient elements in an alkaline environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Soil Science Society of Poland has elected gleby płowe (clay-illuvial soils) to be the Soils of the Year 2023. Gleby płowe are the most important soils in Poland, both in terms of occupied area, at least 45% of the total soil cover of Poland, and the importance for national agriculture. Gleby płowe are considered medium to highly productive soils, suitable for wheat, rapeseed and corn cultivation, so the vast majority of these soils are occupied by arable land use, while only their little fragments remained in forests, forming mesotrophic and eutrophic habitats. The joining feature of all gleby płowe is the presence of an argic illuvial diagnostic horizon, developed in the course of mechanical translocation of the clay fraction. However, this group is probably among the most diversified soils in Poland, as a consequence of the huge diversity of its parent materials and environmental conditions of their origin, as the well as the subsequent transformation induced by the long-term agricultural land use. This diversity is reflected in the highest number of soil subtypes (13) distinguished in a single soil type in the Polish Soil Classification, and their partial correlation with at least five reference soil groups (Luvisols, Retisols, Stagnosols, Planosols and Alisols) of an international WRB classification. This paper contains a brief review of (a) the development of the concept of clay-illuvial soils in the world and in Poland, (b) the current definition and classification of gleby płowe in Poland in relation to international classification, and (c) the state of the art in the knowledge of clay-illuvial soils in Poland, considering the unsolved issues of their origin, transformation and distribution in Poland. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The object of this study is the lands belonging to the cadastral territory of Seleuș commune, Arad county, respectively the soils identified in the mentioned perimeter. They are studied in relation to the environmental factors that condition their existence, together with them, forming homogeneous ecological territory units (UT or TEO) with specific favouritivities for different agricultural or forestry uses and with specific breeding requirements and technologies. The research is based on the establishment of a sustainable agriculture system, meeting the requirements for the establishment of the scientific database necessary for the establishment of technologies and for the development of measures for the integrated management of agroecosystems. It aims to obtain a fund of information on technical and fertility characteristics in order to determine the current general production capacity of land for different crop plants, respectively different uses, to substantiate technically and scientifically the most appropriate practical measures regarding the rational use and conservation of the land fund, in order to make them available to specialists and also to serve as elements in the composition of the data of M.A.D.R. in order to achieve and update the "National and County Soil-Land Monitoring System for Agriculture", but also to substantiate other programs in the field of activity of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development: implementation of the nitrates directive, application of the provisions of the sewage sludge directive, directive on biofuels, directive on delimitation of disadvantaged areas, climate change, organic agriculture, etc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance. The need for constant monitoring of the state of natural environments because of Ufa increasing industrialization. This study is especially relevant due to the presence of enterprises of various industries (petrochemical, energy, metal construction, timber processing, chemical) located on a fairly small territory of the millionaire city. The aim. To determine the degree of technogenic pollution of the soil cover from industrial facilities in the study area. It is necessary to assess the impact of industrial emissions, as well as emissions from stationary and mobile sources for development of measures aimed at reducing the impact of chemical elements on the environment. Methods. Instrumental neutron activation analysis, atomic absorption spectroscopy, kappametry, mathematical statistics, mapping (spatial distribution of indicator geochemical indicators and content of the main pollutants). Results. The paper introduces the results of the analysis of the content of 29 chemical elements in the soil cover on the territory of Ufa according to the study of 104 samples. For each industrial area of the city, the priority elements-pollutants from the list of the analyzed ones were identified. Areas with high traffic congestion, as well as areas near oil refineries, are characterized by increased concentrations of As and LREE group (La, Ce, Nd). Elevated levels of Br and Sc are observed in areas near energy complexes. Increased concentrations of REE (Nd, Tb, Lu) were detected around the objects of the timber industry complex. A special situation is observed with the concentrations of some metals (Cr, Zn, Co). The entire territory of the city is characterized by increased concentrations of elements of the transition metal group due to the presence of a large metalworking complex and heavy automobile traffic. Using statistical methods of data interpretation, associations of chemical elements were identified and divided by possible genesis: mainly natural (Ca-Sr), mixed (Cs-Rb, Br-Ta-Na), mainly technogenic (Sb-Zn, Ba-As-Cr-Hg, Th-Lu-Hf-Yb, Ce-La-Nd). The constructed maps-schemes of spatial distribution, the total indicator of pollution and magnetic susceptibility determined that the territory of Ordzhonikidze district and the territory of the Dema railway station can be considered as the most susceptible to anthropogenic influence.

Conservation practices such as no-tillage are necessary to maintain, and/or improve agricultural soil quality. However, straw formation and maintenance in tropical regions is a limiting factor to adopting this system. In this sense, this research aimed to study the effect of cover crops on straw formation, soil quality indicators, and cowpea yield under no-tillage in the Amazon savanna. Two experiments were carried out in consecutive years, on a Latossolo Amarelo. The treatments consisted of the straw of cover crops in a single (S) and intercrop (I) system, as follows: Urochloa brizantha (UBS), Pennisetum glaucum (PGS), Crotalaria juncea (CJS), Canavalia ensiformis (CES), Mucuna aterrima (MAS), U. brizantha and C. juncea (UBCJI), U. brizantha and C. ensiformis (UBCEI), P. glaucum and C. juncea (PGCJI), P. glaucum and C. ensiformis (PGCEI), and spontaneous vegetation (SV). Cowpea was cultivated after desiccation of the cover crops. Most of the straw favored soil particle aggregation, except for C. juncea and SV, which negatively influenced this variable. Basal soil respiration, organic carbon content, potassium, base saturation, geometric mean diameter, macroaggregates, and macroporosity at layer of 0-0.10 m were the most sensitive indicators for improving soil quality in a savanna environment. UBS, UBCJI, and UBCEI were superior to the other treatments in improving soil quality. Almost all treatments increased cowpea yield by up to 29%, except for CJS and SV.

The heavy metal content of the soil cover in Bishkek was measured in order to monitor the environmental safety level. Atomic emission spectral analysis was used to study the test samples containing heavy metals. Quantitative analysis of the samples was realized in the plasma flow of a two-jet DGP-50M plasmatron. Sampling was based on zoning of the urban area, taking account of emissions from thermal power units, vehicles, and the private sector. The content of eight elements of the heavy metal group was determined in samples taken at three sites in Bishkek in the summer and winter periods. The of heavy metal contents of the samples did not exceed the established environmental standards for the maximum permissible concentration and the maximum permissible excess parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adequate management of N supply, plant density, row spacing, and soil cover has proved useful for increasing grain yields and/or grain yield stability of rainfed crops over the years. We review the impact of these management practices on grain yield water-related determinants: seasonal crop evapotranspiration (ET) and water use efficiency for grain production per unit of evapotranspired water during the growing season (WUEG,ET,s). We highlight a large number of conflicting results for the impact of management on ET and expose the complexity of the ET response to environmental factors. We analyse the influence of management practices on WUEG,ET,s in terms of the three main processes controlling it: (i) the proportion of transpiration in ET (T/ET), (ii) transpiration efficiency for shoot biomass production (TEB), and (iii) the harvest index. We directly relate the impact of management practices on T/ET to their effect on crop light interception and provide evidence that management practices significantly influence TEB. To optimize WUEG,ET,s, management practices should favor soil water availability during critical periods for seed set, thereby improving the harvest index. The need to improve the performance of existing crop growth models for the prediction of water-related grain yield determinants under different management practices is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Olive groves rank among the cropping systems facing higher erosion risk in Mediterranean Europe. The adoption of erosion control soil management practices is key for reducing such risk and driving olive production towards sustainability. This field experimental study aimed to quantify the erosion control performance of improved soil management as compared to conventional soil management in olive groves of NE Portugal. The design aimed to compare the effects of introducing no-tillage (NT) to a conventionally managed (T) olive grove and those with complementing ground cover by adventitious species (NS) with a sown cover (S) and comprised four treatments: TNS (reference for conventional), TS, NTNS and NTS. Erosion microplots (4 m2) were installed (two per treatment), recording soil loss, runoff and ground cover in seven erosion events throughout one year. The best erosion control performance was found in NTNS (low-cost improved soil management treatment) with 50% and 85% reductions in soil loss, respectively, in the annual total and in erosion events following large precipitation periods. Plots with adventitious vegetation ground cover performed better in soil loss control than the sown ones. Converting to no-tillage, as compared to sowing herbaceous vegetation to increase ground cover, proved more performant and less hazardous for improving erosion control in olive groves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Spatial normalized difference vegetation index finds various applications in crop monitoring and prediction. Although this index is mainly aimed to represent the state of vegetation cover, it is suggested that it could be utilized for other remote monitoring purposes, for example, soil humus content monitoring. The study was carried out in 2022-2023 fallow-field period in Kherson oblast, the South of Ukraine, to establish the relationship between the values of bare-soil normalized difference vegetation index and content of humus in the soils of the region. Statistical modeling was performed using the best subsets regression analysis in BioStat v.7 and artificial neural network with back propagation of error algorithm in Tiberius XL. The best performance was recorded for the combined model of cubic regression and artificial neural network, with moderate fitting quality (coefficient of determination is 0.29), and good prediction accuracy (mean average percentage error is 13.22%). The results approve the suggestion of possibility of spatial vegetation index use in soil state monitoring, especially, if further scientific work enhances the fitting quality of the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite ample literature, the influence of the individual soil properties and covers on the hydrological response of burned soils of forests has not clearly identified. A clear understanding of the surface runoff and erosion rates altered by wildfires and prescribed fires is beneficial to identify the most suitable post-fire treatment. This study has carried out a combined analysis of the hydrological response of soil and its driving factors in burned forests of Central-Eastern Spain. The pine stands of these forests were subjected to both prescribed fire and wildfire, and, in the latter case, to post-fire treatment with mulching. Moreover, simple multi-regression models are proposed to predict runoff and erosion in the experimental conditions. In the case of the prescribed burning, the fire had a limited impact on runoff and erosion compared to the unburned areas, due to the limited changes in soil parameters. In contrast, the wildfire increased many-fold the runoff and erosion rates, but the mulching reduced the hydrological response of the burned soils, particularly for the first two-three rainfalls after the fire. The increase in runoff and erosion after the wildfire was associated to the removal of the vegetation cover, soil water repellency, and ash left by fire; the changes in water infiltration played a minor role on runoff and erosion. The multi-regression models developed for the prescribed fire were accurate to predict the post-fire runoff coefficients. However, these models were less reliable for predictions of the mean erosion rates. The predictions of erosion after wildfire and mulching were excellent, while those of runoff were not satisfactory (except for the mean values). These results are useful to better understand the relations among the hydrological effects of fire on one side and the main soil properties and covers on the other side. Moreover, the proposed prediction models are useful to support the planning activities of forest managers and hydrologists towards a more effective conservation of forest soils.

Copyright of Glasnik Zastite Bilja is the property of Zadruzna Stampa D.D. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In Mexico, the concepts of rangeland site and condition are not well known. For this reason, most of the rangelands of private ranches on the high plateau of San Luis Potosí and Zacatecas are undergoing a process of severe generalized deterioration. The purpose of this study was to survey and characterize multi-branched rangeland sites of three beef cattle ranches on the San Luis Potosí-Zacatecas High Plateau, as well as to assess their condition using a quantitative ecological method complemented by updated technological tools. The hypothesis proposed was that the site and condition of rangeland evaluated with the quantitative ecological method (used for grasslands and soil), complemented by updated technology, are also identifiable in multi-branched rangelands of this type of production units on the San Luis Potosí-Zacatecas High Plateau. Based on a Landsat satellite image, an unsupervised classification process was performed for the three ranches, which was then confirmed by field observations. A total of 11 sites were surveyed, three on each ranch (microphyll desert scrub, predominantly Bouteloua gracilis; microphyll desert scrub, with predominance of Sporobolus airoides; and an ecotone between microphyll desert scrub and rosetophile desert scrub) and two exclusive locations (crassicaule scrub and rosetophile desert scrub with predominance of Muhlenbergia villiflora). Rangeland condition was evaluated by measuring density and volume (volumetric biomass) of the main plant species, categorized by forage value, and the actual state of the soil surface was assessed in terms of bare soil and vegetation, litter, feces and rock cover. The data were ordered and classified with the DECORANA and TWINSPAN modules from the PC-ORD program. Site and condition evaluation under this approach was satisfactory for surveying the state of the rangelands of the three private cattle ranches studied on the San Luis Potosí-Zacatecas High Plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relevance. Pollution of ecosystems with heavy metals and arsenic is a significant anthropogenic factor that adversely affects humans and biota. In the Sverdlovsk region, where mining and processing of mineral raw materials is carried out, high levels of pollutant emissions from stationary sources, including heavy metals, are noted. The region is also characterized by multicomponent contamination of territories with artificial radionuclides. Since 1964, the Beloyarsk NPP has been in operation in the Sverdlovsk region. The long-term operation of industrial enterprises and radiation hazardous facilities increases the technogenic load on the ecosystems of the Urals. The main aim of the research is to assess the content of heavy metals and arsenic in the soils of terrestrial ecosystems in the vicinity of industrial enterprises and the Beloyarsk NPP based on environmental monitoring. Objects. In 2013 and 2019 the soils of natural (meadow) and agricultural (arable land, grassland) ecosystems of the 30-km zone of influence of the Beloyarsk NPP were studied. The content of 17 elements related to I (Pb, Zn, Cd, As, Hg), II (Mo, Cu, Ni, Co, Cr, Sb), III (Sr, Mn, V, W, Ba) hazard classes was studied in the soil cover, as well as iron. Methods. The assessment of the total content of heavy metals and arsenic in the soil was carried out in the testing laboratory of agroecology of the RIRAE (accreditation certificate RA.RU.513078). To prepare soil samples for measurements, we used the methods of «cold vapor» and «wet ashing» with a MARS-5 microwave system (CEM, USA). The elements in the samples were determined by atomic absorption and plasma emission methods of analysis. For measurements, we used an axial atomic emission (optical) spectrometer with sample atomization in inductively coupled plasma (ICP–OES) Liberty II (Varian, Australia–USA) and a KVANT spectrometer Zeta-1 with the GRG-3. Results. It is shown that for 2013−2019 the ratio of elements in the soil cover of terrestrial ecosystems in the vicinity of the Beloyarsk NPP was quite stable. According to the decrease in the total content in the soil, heavy metals and arsenic in 2019 were arranged in the following order: Fe (average − 16700 mg/kg)>Mn (879)>Ba (134)>Zn (51)>Ni (35)≥Cr ( 32)≥V (30)≥Sr (28)>Cu (21)>Pb (12,4)≥Co (11,9)>W (6,7)>Sb (2,4)>As (1,7)≥Mo (1,5)>Cd (0,2)>Hg (0,01 mg/kg). According to the total accumulation of elements in the soil, terrestrial ecosystems are in the ratio: arable land (18,7 g/kg of soil)>meadows (14,9 g/kg)>virgin land (12,6 g/kg). Such a distinction is due to differences in the content of iron in the soil, the contribution of which to the regional background is 90…95 %. A weak correlation between the content of elements in the soil and the distance from the Beloyarsk NPP (–0,44...0,29 in 2013 and –0,29...0,38 in 2019) showed the absence of significant emissions of toxicants into the environment from the nuclear power plant both as a result of its many years of work, and after the start of operation of the BN-800 reactor. Among the I hazard class pollutants accumulated in the soil, zinc dominates (contribution 76…78 %), lead is in second place (18...21 %). In II hazard class, the main soil pollutants are nickel (45…34 %) and chromium (28…30 %). In III hazard class is dominated by manganese (68...81 %) and barium (14...27 %). It is shown that in 25…63 % of soil samples in the vicinity of the Beloyarsk NPP, the gross nickel content does not correspond to the approximate permissible concentrations established in SanPiN 1.2.3685−21. In addition, in all control plots of meadow ecosystems, the maximum permissible concentration for the content of antimony was exceeded. In 2019, in 4…25 % of soil samples of arable land and meadows, a discrepancy was noted with maximum permissible concentration for manganese, and in 4…11 % of soil samples of arable land, the maximum permissible concentration for arsenic was exceeded. The levels of accumulation in the soil of a number of heavy metals also exceed the regional background of the Sverdlovsk region: for nickel in 25...63 % of soil samples of natural and agricultural ecosystems, for manganese in 10...50 % of soil samples of arable land and meadows. The greatest amount of elements (average 42 %) is accumulated in the 0−5 cm soil layer. The maximum accumulation in the upper soil horizon was noted for cadmium (62 %), arsenic (49 %), and lead (48 %), and the minimum for antimony (29 %) and manganese (28 %). According to the total stock of toxicants in the 0−5 cm soil layer, they are arranged in a row: Cd>As>Pb>Zn>Cu>Mo>Hg>Sr>Ni>Cr>V>W>Co>Ba>Sb>Mn. In deeper horizons (5−10, 10−15 and 15−20 cm) of soil the elements are distributed evenly. Compared to other technogenically-polluted regions of Russia, the results of monitoring the content of heavy metals and arsenic in the soil of the Beloyarsk NPP area show a stable ecological situation. When planning further monitoring studies, it is necessary to pay attention to the behavior of arsenic, nickel, antimony, manganese, cadmium and lead in the soil. The increased content of these toxicants in the soil can lead to their accumulation in agricultural and natural food products.

At the experimental field of VNIIMZ (Tver region, village Emmauss) laid a series of 8 soil sections. The first three sections of the southern slope are confined to the transit-accumulative, transit and eluvial-transit microlandscape with a complex of gleevate and gleev soils, which changes to an eluvial-accumulative flat-topped section and similar microlandscapes of the northern slope with slightly bent and gleevate sod-podzolic light loamy soils. In samples taken every 10 cm, the particle size distribution of soils was determined by laser diffraction and sieve (>0.25 mm) methods. The differential distribution curves of soil particles are dominated by fractions of fine sand with a maximum content of diameters of 100–150 µm and silt (1–50 µm). Three granulometrically homogeneous layers are distinguished in the soil profile: the upper one with an arable horizon (0–40 cm), medium (up to 70–80 cm) and super-moraine (up to 120 cm). In the middle part of the soil profile of the northern slope, silty fractions prevail; and in the soils of the southern part of the landscape, a relatively high content of the sandy fraction is observed (the fraction of fine sand, 50–250 µm, dominates, and followed by the coarse silt fraction, 10–50 µm), which, apparently associated with the historical processes of profiles development on binary deposits, erosion, and, possibly, with modern agrotechnological processes.

The article deals with the issues related to the legal protection of land resources of Ukraine, which were significantly negatively affected during the military aggression and hostilities by the so-called rusian federation. The article identifies and analyzes the types of pollution and damage to land resources arising from military aggression and hostilities by the rusian federation as an aggressor country. Such pollution and damage to land resources is called militarytechnogenic pollution of land resources. It is stated, that the conduct of not only active but also passive hostilities causes irreparable damage to land resources. This is manifested in mechanical, physical, chemical, and biological contamination of the soil cover of lands of various categories. Also, for example, digging trenches, fortified areas, ammunition and personnel storage facilities, and caponiers for military equipment causes degradation of the soil cover. The consequences of these actions indicate the presence of signs of such a criminal offense as "Ecocide" - Article 441 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. It is concluded, that: 1) military-technogenic contamination of the soil cover causes direct soil contamination with hazardous substances of a military nature, as well as their degradation; 2) such consequences are socially dangerous for humans and the environment, given the system of interaction "soilplant", "soil-plant-human"; 3) in general, such contamination of the soil cover should be classified under Article 441 "Ecocide" of the Criminal Code of Ukraine without applying the provisions of Section VIII "Criminal Offenses Against the Environment"; 4) the establishment of the evidence base should be carried out by joint efforts of national and international law enforcement agencies; 5) compensation for the damage, caused by the pollution and damage to land resources, should be made by way of contribution and reparation from rusia as the aggressor state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The specific features of the soil–vegetation heterogeneity at the early stages of restorative succession have been studied. These features are determined by biotic and bioinert conditions that were influenced by anthropogenic factors during long-term plowing on azonal carbonated soils in the middle taiga subzone (Kargopol district, Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia). In total, 25 full-profile soil sections, 500 soil samples, 125 sites for counting tree and shrub species, 25 standard geobotanical plots, and 250 plots for counting herbaceous species have been studied and analyzed. During the first 15 years of restorative succession on fallow agricultural land, herbaceous vegetation has the highest phytocenotic significance. On the residual calcareous soils of the forest zone, the specialization of ecological properties, i.e., the confinement of species to certain factors is weakly pronounced only in some herbaceous species. The mosaic structure of vegetation cover on a 15-year-old fallow is determined not by the variability of soil properties and the influence of growing tree and shrub species, but by the biological properties of herbaceous plants and their specific requirements for environmental factors. Soil fertility and soil moisture are the main factors that determine the variations of vegetation at this stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Engenharia na Agricultura is the property of Engenharia na Agricultura and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

• Joined geotechnical and geoelectrical methods for physical models of unstable slopes. • Electrical resistivity as a proxy for the hydrological state of unstable soil covers. • Slope physical modelling for advanced assessment of debris-flow hazard. The physical and geotechnical characterization of surficial geological systems forming slopes and the definition of soil hydrological conditions leading to rainfall-induced shallow landslides are key factors for the effective landslide hazard assessment and setting of Landslide Early Warning Systems (LEWS). Indeed, poor knowledge of the thicknesses, local stratigraphic features and geotechnical properties of soil/regolith coverings, as well as their soil hydrological status, can lead to oversimplified assumptions resulting in high uncertainties in the prediction of landslide hazard in space and time. This work proposes the integration of geotechnical and geophysical approaches to advance the reconstruction of surficial engineering geological models and the assessment of the hydrological status of soil-covered slopes prone to landsliding, to be used for the setting of physical-based slope models. A combined field and laboratory geotechnical and geophysical study of a sector of Mount di Vezzi (Ischia Island, southern Italy), known for the recurrent shallow rainfall-induced landslides affecting settlements in the foothills, was carried out to test our approach. As a principal result, the integration of both approaches advances the reconstruction of a comprehensive physical model of the potentially unstable slopes. Significantly, the coupling of geophysical and geotechnical properties, such as electrical resistivity, volumetric water content and soil water pressure head, allows the use of resistivity as a proxy for the hydrological status of the soil mantled slopes at a volume scale consistent with that of the initial stage of shallow landslides, ranging from 101 to 103 m3. The results obtained are expected to be applicable for the definition of the parameters of physical-based slope models to be used for supporting LEWS, built on rainfall thresholds and hydrological measurements, thus for the estimation of the spatial and temporal variation of shallow rainfall-induced landslide hazard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]