Mohseni S, Tavili A, Jafari M, Vahabzadeh R. Evaluation of the Effect of Planting Projects on Soil and Vegetation Characteristics in the Salt Lands along Lake Urmia. مرتع 2024; 18 (2) :169-183
URL:
http://rangelandsrm.ir/article-1-795-en.html
Department of Reclamation of Arid and Mountainous Regions, Faculty of Natural Resources, University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj
Abstract: (3743 Views)
Background and objectives: Evaluating the effectiveness of biological practices is crucial for enhancing management strategies and ensuring efficient future project implementations. Understanding the outcomes of these projects aids managers and experts in refining, improving, or discontinuing similar initiatives. This study aims to assess the results of biological projects, including seeding and seedling planting, in the salt lands along Lake Urmia.
Methodology: This study investigated the effects of planting projects on vegetation and soil characteristics across four sites (Aghe-Ziarat, Chupanloo, Separghan, and Jabal-Kandi) along Lake Urmia. Comparisons were made between areas rehabilitated with Tamarix aphylla, Halocnemum strobilaceum, and Nitraria schoberi seedlings (initiated in 2015) and control areas (without rehabilitation practices). The research comprised field sampling and laboratory analyses. Soil properties (organic matter, EC, pH, and potassium at 0-20 cm depth) and plant characteristics (total cover, biomass, density, and freshness) were evaluated through 30 plots (1m² each) using a random-systematic method in both planted and control areas, totaling 240 plots. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, independent t-tests, and the LSD method in SPSS software.
Results: The study revealed that total canopy cover in Aghe-Ziarat, Chupanloo, Separghan, and Jabal-Kandi increased by 74%, 68%, 58%, and 70%, respectively, compared to control sites. Plant biomass also showed a significant increase (P-value < 0.01). The total plant density in Aghe-Ziarat, Chupanloo, Separghan, and Jabal-Kandi increased by 45, 16, 56, and 59 plants/m², respectively. Organic matter in Agche-Ziarat, Chupanloo, Jabal-Kandi, and Separghan regions increased by 53%, 19%, 55%, and 38%, respectively. In terms of seedling vigor, Separghan exhibited the most vigorous seedlings, while Chupanloo exhibited the least. No significant differences were found between Aghe-Ziarat and Jabal-Kandi regarding seedling vigor.
Conclusion: Introducing species such as Tamarix aphylla and Nitraria schoberi has facilitated the return of native plants like Salsola spp. and Hordeum vulgar in the study areas, particularly in Separghan and Jabal-Kandi, where soil conditions are more favorable. The study concludes that depending on the plant species used and regional conditions, planting projects have improved vegetation's quantitative and qualitative characteristics. Soil properties also showed improvement compared to non-planted sites.
Type of Study:
Research |
Subject:
Special Received: 2019/11/22 | Accepted: 2021/02/1 | Published: 2024/07/31