Impact of Organic Conditioners (Biochar and Sheep Manure) on Runoff and Erosion

Abstract

Soil erosion and nutrient loss threaten the soil and water resources worldwide. Application of soil conditioners, particularly organic amendments, is an effective way to mitigate this problem. This study was undertaken to assess the effect of application of two organic amendments, biochar and ship manure, under two rainfall intensities of 51 and 65 mm/h by using a rainfall simulator on intact soil. No significant difference was observed in the treatments at 51 mm/h, while with an increase in the intensity to 65 mm/h, the biochar amendment made a decrease of about 64% in the suspended load and runoff coefficient; sheep manure reduced the runoff coefficient and suspended load by about 76% and 74%, respectively at the 99% significance level.

Keywords

• rainfall simulator
• soil conditioners
• suspended load
• organic amendments