Land Resource Characterization, Soil Resource Mapping for Farm Level Land Use Planning – A Case Study in Upper Gangetic Plains

Abstract

Land resource characterization and detailed inventorization of soil resources for farm planning was carried out in block level in Haryana as a case study in upper Gangetic plains. Satellite data(IRS-P6, LISS-IV) interpretation in conjunction with legacy data and cadastral maps was undertaken using latest techniques identified broad physiographic units and generated base map for soil survey. Eleven soil series along with eighteen mapping units were identified as phases of soils series in six broad physiographic units. Soil-physiographic relationship was established during detailed soil resource mapping. Soils occur on old alluvial plain are very deep, well drained to moderately well drained, calcareous, loam/clay loam and classified as Fine loamy, Typic Haplustepts /Typic Haplustalfs, while on old alluvial plain with high water table (Salt affected soils) are very deep, imperfectly to poorly drained, calcareous, clay loam, saline-sodic in nature (Fine loamy, Natric Haplustepts/ Typic Halaquepts). Soils on very gently sloping reclaimed sand dunes are sandy/loamy sand, excessively to somewhat drained (Typic Ustipsamments). Soils were characterized, classified for their constraints/potentials and suitability for different uses were identified. The majority of soils are moderately alkaline, slightly saline, high in lime content, and low to medium in available nutrients. Salinity/sodicity, drainage, erosion and low fertility are the major constraints in the region. Resource database generated were interpreted and integrated in Geographical Information System (GIS) for several thematic information viz., landform, land use/land cover, soils, drainage, particle size, and soil salinity/sodicity. Suitable land use options were suggested for each parcel of land by considering its constraints/potentialities. Village level site-specific database was generated for farm planning which could be easily applicable for land use and management strategies in similar area of upper Gangetic plain.