Effects of Rangeland Restoration (Contour Furrows, and Mortar Stone Dam) on Soil Fertilization (Case Study: Silvana Region, West Azerbaijan Province, Iran)

Abstract

The overgrazing and excessive utilization of rangelands has caused vegetation<br />and soil degradation in many rangelands. In the rangeland management, the soil and<br />vegetation elements, environmental factors and livestock should be considered as decision<br />making agents. Various methods are applicable for the rangeland restoration as contour<br />furrows and mortar stone dam. In order to evaluate the effects of restoration treatment on<br />soil fertility parameters, this research was carried out in Rangelands of Silvana region,<br />West Azerbaijan Province, Iran. Soil samples were taken based on a random method using<br />six 100-m long transects in both treated and control sites. Soil samples were taken from the<br />beginning, middle and end of each transect in both 0-30 cm and 30-60 cm depths. Nitrogen<br />(N), Phosphorus (P) and Potassium (K) contents of soil samples were determined using<br />Kjeldal, P-Olsen and flame photometer method, respectively. Differences between means<br />of soil properties in the restoration and control treatments were compared by applying oneway<br />ANOVA and SNK (P<0.05) test using SPSS18 software. The results showed<br />significant differences between restoration and control for soil properties. N, P and K<br />contents in mortar stone dam treatment in both depth soils were increased as compared to<br />contour furrows and control. According to the results, there are significant differences<br />among P, N and K concentrations in both mortar stone dam and contour furrow treatments<br />between upper and lower soil layers. But, amount of K in the upper soil layer of contour<br />furrow and mortar stone dam treatments was less than lower layer. It was concluded that<br />the constriction of mortar stone dam in the studied area had led to positive impacts on soil<br />fertilization. Overall, the results show that in Silvana region, rangeland improving is<br />possible through applying the mechanical operation of mortar stone dam.