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Soil changes under agroforestry (SCUAF): a predictive model

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Interactive microcomputer model is described, designed to predict the effects upon soils of specified agroforestry systems within given environments, and to assist soils research in agroforestry. Mark I of the model covers changes in erosion and soil carbon, Mark II includes nitrogen cycling. There are feedback factors for the effects of soil changes on plant growth. For modeling erosion, a tree proportionality factor is defined, which represents the degree to which erosion from an agroforestry system as a whole is controlled by the tree component. The effects of reduction in soil depth are usually negligible compared with losses of organic matter and nutrients. It is possible to design sustainable agroforestry systems that are productive, control erosion and maintain soil fertility. Data from field trials are needed to validate these conclusions
    Publication year

    1990

    Authors

    Young A; Muraya P

    Language

    English

    Keywords

    agroforestry, soil, soil erosion, soil sciences

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