In collaboration with Iranian Watershed Management Association

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PhD Student, Faculty of Natural Resources, Gorgan University of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Iran

2 Scientific Board, Faculty of Water and Soil, University of Zabol, Iran

3 Assistant professor, Faculty of Water and Soil, University of Zabol, Iran

Abstract

The aim of this research is to study the impact the establishment of two types of windbreak, namely Tamarix aphylla and eucalyptus, on the soil characteristics in the Hamon plain, Sistan, Iran. In order, for each of the two species, a transect was set in 1.5 meter from plant canopy of the tree as treatment and a transect in distance of 50 meters from the trees as control. 30 points on each transect was selected and soil samples were taken at three depths (0-10, 10-30, 30-60 cm).The data of electro conductivity, acidity, the ratio of carbon to nitrogen, organic matter, potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium, and texture of the soil, were analyzed using the SPSS software, paired t-test and analysis of variance in a randomized block design. Results showed that with the construction of the two windbreaks, electro conductivity, organic matter, calcium, potassium, sodium and carbon to nitrogen ratio had a significant (95%) increase compared to the control region. Furthermore, results showed that Tamarix aphylla in compared to eucalyptus, caused more increase in sodium, electro conductivity, and soil salinity, despite the fact that it causes an increase in organic C/N, carbon to nitrogen ratio, calcium, and potassium. In general, compared to eucalyptus, Tamarix aphylla windbreak has a better compatibility with the climate in the region Positive impact on soil properties, increasing soil organic matter levels and in the Long-term will help improve soil structure and soil also increases the necessary materials (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium), the has more positive effects on the characteristics of the soil.

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