Article
Soil Science
Madlene Nussbaum, Stephan Zimmermann, Lorenz Walthert, Andri Baltensweiler
Summary: Maps of soil pH are important for forest management decisions. Existing mapping methods neglect the bimodal distribution of soil pH values, leading to misleading interpretations. This article presents a novel approach that reproduces the distributional properties of soil pH.
Article
Agronomy
Samukelisiwe G. Zulu, Lembe S. Magwaza, Nozipho M. Motsa, Nkanyiso J. Sithole, Khayelihle Ncama
Summary: Understanding the long-term complex relationship between soils, crops, and management practices is crucial for optimizing crop yields. This study found that reduced tillage practices, such as no-till and rotational tillage with mulch, favored the availability of micronutrients in the cropping system.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Zander S. Venter, Heidi-Jayne Hawkins, Michael D. Cramer, Anthony J. Mills
Summary: Estimating and monitoring soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks is crucial for maintaining soil productivity and meeting climate change targets. Using satellite-driven machine learning, we mapped SOC stocks under natural vegetation in South Africa over 35 years, showing changes in SOC stocks and trends across different biomes.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Gizaw Desta, Tibebu Kassawmar, Matebu Tadesse, Gete Zeleke
Summary: This study predicted the extent and distribution of soil acidity in the country based on analysis of 109,704 soil pH samples, revealing that approximately 47% of the Country's total area and 45% of rainfed areas are acidic. It is recommended to regularly update the extent and distribution of soil acidity in future studies.
LAND DEGRADATION & DEVELOPMENT
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Reimo Lutter, Arvo Tullus, Aivo Vares, Reeno Sopp, Tea Tullus, Marju Kaivapalu, Katri Ots, Bikash Kharel, Tomas Lundmark, Hardi Tullus
Summary: Fast-growing tree plantations on abandoned agricultural soils have the potential to sequester atmospheric CO2 and increase soil carbon and nutrient contents. However, the specific effects of these plantations on soil properties are still poorly understood.
Article
Environmental Studies
Sebastiano Trevisani, Igor Bogunovic
Summary: This study provides a high-resolution mapping of soil organic matter (SOM) content in eastern Croatia and compares two datasets from the 1970s and 2010s, revealing a general depletion trend of SOM and a process of homogenization in recent years. The study emphasizes the importance of evaluating soil health and implementing preservation and restoration actions.
Article
Agronomy
Yves Uwiragiye, Mbezele Junior Yannick Ngaba, Mingxia Yang, Ahmed S. Elrys, Zhujun Chen, Jianbin Zhou
Summary: This study aimed to predict the spatial variation of soil acidification caused by optimized fertilizer use in Sub-Saharan Africa cropland. The results showed that soil acidification ranged from 0 to 16 keq H+ ha(-1) yr(-1), with cassava, banana, and Irish potatoes systems producing the most protons. Climate covariates had a higher relative importance than other covariates in driving soil acidification.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Mayuko Seki, Soh Sugihara, Hidetoshi Miyazaki, Muniandi Jegadeesan, Pandian Kannan, Isabelle Bertrand, Haruo Tanaka
Summary: This study investigated the effects of biochar application on CO2 flux, microbial responses, and carbon budget in tropical alkaline cropland of southern India. The results showed that biochar application increased soil moisture but did not affect CO2 flux, resulting in a positive carbon budget. Combined application of biochar and farmyard manure did not increase CO2 flux but contributed to the largest increase in soil organic carbon.
LAND DEGRADATION & DEVELOPMENT
(2022)
Article
Soil Science
Andrei Dornik, Marinela Adriana Chetan, Lucian Dragut, Daniel Dorin Dicu, Andrei Iliuta
Summary: A new algorithm is introduced in the study to derive terrain attributes at different scales for optimal mapping of soil properties, highlighting the importance of scaled predictors in improving mapping accuracy. Results showed that optimized predictors led to more accurate and less uncertain soil property maps compared to original not scaled or all multiscale predictors.
Article
Chemistry, Analytical
Changda Zhu, Yuchen Wei, Fubin Zhu, Wenhao Lu, Zihan Fang, Zhaofu Li, Jianjun Pan
Summary: This study utilized the regression kriging model to predict soil organic carbon (SOC) content in a hilly farming area with continuous undulating terrain. The results show that among the ensemble models, Cubist performed best in terms of prediction accuracy and stability. The regression kriging model, which combines the advantages of machine learning and kriging methods, effectively improved the prediction accuracy. This study is of great significance for soil survey and digital mapping in complex terrain areas.
Article
Agronomy
Sedigheh Maleki, Mojtaba Zeraatpisheh, Alireza Karimi, Gholamhossein Sareban, Lin Wang
Summary: The study monitored the variation of soil quality in an arid environment in northeastern Iran and found that saffron land covers had the highest soil quality while pistachio orchards had the lowest soil quality.
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Hailey Webb, Nathaniel Barnes, Scott Powell, Clain Jones
Summary: Soil acidification is a growing issue in semi-arid agroecosystems, particularly in Montana, USA. This study explores a new approach using UAS imagery to identify and predict areas of acidic soils, bridging the gap between remote sensing data and field measurements for efficient soil remediation.
PRECISION AGRICULTURE
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Eleonora Grilli, Silvia C. P. Carvalho, Tommaso Chiti, Elio Coppola, Rosaria D'Ascoli, Tommaso La Mantia, Rossana Marzaioli, Micol Mastrocicco, Fernando Pulido, Flora Angela Rutigliano, Paola Quatrini, Simona Castaldi
Summary: Soil quality is crucial for ecosystem functionality, especially in Mediterranean regions facing the risk of desertification. This study highlights the importance of soil organic carbon (SOC) in maintaining key soil functions and ecosystem services, stressing the need for immediate management plans to prevent complete land degradation.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Clayton R. Butterly, Xiaojuan Wang, Peter Sale, Guangdi Li, Caixian Tang
Summary: The utilization of on-farm crop residues is more cost-effective in ameliorating soil acidity compared to animal manures. Legume residues are more effective than cereal residues in promoting plant growth, increasing soil pH, and reducing aluminum concentration.
Article
Environmental Studies
Amit Kumar, Pravash Chandra Moharana, Roomesh Kumar Jena, Sandeep Kumar Malyan, Gulshan Kumar Sharma, Ram Kishor Fagodiya, Aftab Ahmad Shabnam, Dharmendra Kumar Jigyasu, Kasthala Mary Vijaya Kumari, Subramanian Gandhi Doss
Summary: This study examines the performance of machine learning models in predicting and mapping Soil Organic Carbon (SOC). The results show that the Random Forest model performs the best in predicting SOC, while the Support Vector Machine model has lower accuracy. High-resolution maps can provide useful information for decision-makers and stakeholders in the studied region.
Article
Soil Science
Powell Mponela, Grace B. Villamor, Sieglinde Snapp, Lulseged Tamene, Quang B. Le, Christian Borgemeister
Summary: This study reveals that increasing women's empowerment in decision-making can have positive impacts on legume planting but may reduce the application of organic manure. By balancing different factors, sustainable intensification in agriculture can be achieved.
SOIL USE AND MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Wuletawu Abera, Lulseged Tamene, Assefa Abegaz, Habtamu Hailu, Kristin Piikki, Mats Soderstrom, Evan Girvetz, Rolf Sommer
Summary: The study aimed to assess the spatial dynamics of SOC in four selected SLMP watersheds in the Ethiopian highlands and estimate SOC sequestration using model building strategies and machine learning models. The impact of SLM practices on SOC was evaluated through the analysis of SOC stock and potential sequestration levels.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Meron Tadesse, Belay Simane, Wuletawu Abera, Lulseged Tamene, Gebermedihin Ambaw, John W. Recha, Kindu Mekonnen, Getamesay Demeke, Abebe Nigussie, Dawit Solomon
Summary: The study investigated the effects of integrating different climate-smart agricultural practices (CSA) on crop production, soil fertility, and carbon sequestration, demonstrating that CSA practices can increase wheat yield, enhance soil nutrients, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
Review
Environmental Sciences
Gizaw Desta, Lulseged Tamene, Wuletawu Abera, Tilahun Amede, Anthony Whitbread
Summary: Based on studies in Ethiopia, it was found that certain land management practices can reduce soil erosion and increase crop productivity. Effective practices include maintaining soil cover, planting perennial vegetation, and retaining moisture.
INTERNATIONAL SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Million Gebreyes, Kindu Mekonnen, Peter Thorne, Melkamu Derseh, Aberra Adie, Annet Mulema, Seid Ahmed Kemal, Lulseged Tamene, Tilahun Amede, Amare Haileslassie, Aster Gebrekirstos, Walter Tamuka Mupangwa, Mohammed Ebrahim, Temesgen Alene, Addisu Asfaw, Workneh Dubale, Simret Yasabu
Summary: Scaling in agricultural research globally requires a balance between technical requirements and social dynamics, with a focus on relationships, trust, and continuous learning. Flexibility, stepwise approaches, and reflection are essential for successful scaling strategies to overcome critical constraints in agricultural innovation scaling.
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Assefa Abegaz, Ashenafi Ali, Lulseged Tamene, Wuletawu Abera, Jo U. Smith
Summary: This study aimed to characterize the spatial distribution and influencing factors of soil organic carbon in the highlands of Ethiopia, and to simulate and evaluate SOC sequestration under different improved land management practices.
ENVIRONMENT DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
(2022)
Review
Agronomy
Gudeta W. Sileshi, Job Kihara, Lulseged Tamene, Bernard Vanlauwe, Elijah Phiri, Bashir Jama
Summary: This study examines the lack of response to applied nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in different soil types in sub-Saharan Africa. The results show that iron-rich and aluminum-rich soils, as well as erosion-prone soils, are more likely to show no response to fertilizers. On the other hand, certain soil types such as Cambisols, Fluvisols, Luvisols, and Nitisols are highly responsive to NPK fertilizer. Furthermore, the risk of no response is higher on farmers' fields compared to research stations. These findings have implications for future agronomic trials and the targeting of fertilizer subsidies.
EXPERIMENTAL AGRICULTURE
(2022)
Review
Agronomy
Teklu Erkossa, Fanuel Laekemariam, Wuletau Abera, Lulseged Tamene
Summary: Meeting the global demand for food and energy requires increasing crop yields through efficient use of fertilizers. Integrated application of organic and inorganic fertilizers can improve crop yield and economic benefits. However, it is not widely adopted in the national agricultural extension system. Soil surveys have shown deficiency of nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, zinc, and boron. Data mining and machine-learning methods can be used to generate evidence for better decision-making and resource use efficiency.
EXPERIMENTAL AGRICULTURE
(2022)
Article
Agronomy
Tadele Amare, Erkihun Alemu, Zerfu Bazie, Asmare Woubet, Selamyihun Kidanu, Beamlaku Alemayehu, Abrham Awoke, Assefa Derebe, Tesfaye Feyisa, Lulseged Tamene, Bitewlgn Kerebh, Sefinew Wale, Aweke Mulualem
Summary: Inappropriate soil nutrient management practices in most parts of Ethiopia hinder the full realization of the potential yield of improved maize varieties. This study aimed to determine the maximum achievable yield potential of maize, identify the most yield-limiting nutrients, and create a database of maize responses to applied nutrients. The results showed that nitrogen (N) was the most yield-limiting nutrient, followed by phosphorus (P), while potassium (K) was not limiting. The study emphasized the importance of site-specific fertiliser recommendations.
EXPERIMENTAL AGRICULTURE
(2022)
Review
Ecology
L. Tamene, W. Abera, B. Demissie, G. Desta, K. Woldearegay, K. Mekonnen
Summary: This study reviews existing knowledge on the extent and spatial distribution of soil erosion in Ethiopia, documenting the methods used to assess soil erosion. The findings show significant variations in soil erosion rates across different regions, primarily influenced by factors such as land cover and management. This information can inform targeted conservation efforts.
JOURNAL OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Zerihun Chere, Assefa Abegaz, Lulseged Tamene, Wuletawu Abera
Summary: This study aims to model and map the spatiotemporal patterns, status, and trends of agricultural drought in Ethiopia's highlands using satellite-derived vegetation health index (VHI). The study found that VHI can effectively detect agricultural drought and showed good correlations with crop yields in most areas of Ethiopia. The results highlight the importance of using VHI to map agricultural drought and establish early warning and decision-making systems.
MODELING EARTH SYSTEMS AND ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Environmental Studies
Abera Assefa Biratu, Bobe Bedadi, Solomon Gebreyohannis Gebrehiwot, Assefa M. Melesse, Tilahun Hordofa Nebi, Wuletawu Abera, Lulseged Tamene, Anthony Egeru
Summary: This study modeled future land use and land cover change scenarios and estimated ecosystem service values in Central Ethiopia for the year 2051. The results showed changes in land use and cover across different scenarios, with an increase in forest cover and total ecosystem service values under the scenarios of ecosystem protection and agricultural development and landscape ecosystems restoration and conservation.
Article
Agronomy
Lulseged Tamene, Wuletawu Abera, Eduardo Bendito, Teklu Erkossa, Meklit Tariku, Habtamu Sewnet, Degefie Tibebe, Jemal Sied, Gudina Feyisa, Menale Wondie, Kindie Tesfaye
Summary: This study used machine learning algorithms to identify similar areas for agricultural technology targeting in Ethiopia. The concept of SRUs, which show improved clustering for targeting interventions, was proposed and validated. The study also developed an operational framework for generating SRUs.
EXPERIMENTAL AGRICULTURE
(2022)
Article
Environmental Studies
Abera Assefa Biratu, Bobe Bedadi, Solomon Gebreyohannis Gebrehiwot, Assefa M. Melesse, Tilahun Hordofa Nebi, Wuletawu Abera, Lulseged Tamene, Anthony Egeru
Summary: This study estimated the values of ecosystem services (ES) based on past and future land use and land cover (LULC) changes in central Ethiopia. The results showed a continuous decline in forest, wetland, and grazing land areas over the past few decades, with a projected continuation of this decline in the future. Meanwhile, cultivated land and built-up areas are expected to increase. Overall, the value of ecosystem services shows a downward trend.
Article
Agronomy
Wuletawu Abera, Lulseged Tamene, Kindie Tesfaye, Daniel Jimenez, Hugo Dorado, Teklu Erkossa, Job Kihara, Jemal Seid Ahmed, Tilahun Amede, Julian Ramirez-Villegas
Summary: The use of chemical fertilizers in the Green Revolution has played a significant role in increasing yields. However, in Ethiopia, the generic recommendations for fertilizer application have not taken into account soil requirements, resulting in suboptimal or excessive use. It is important to develop site-specific fertilizer recommendations that consider climate, soil, and topographic characteristics to maximize yield and economic returns.
EXPERIMENTAL AGRICULTURE
(2022)