The Effect of Water Harvesting Techniques on Runoff,Sedimentation, and Soil Properties |
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Authors: | Saleh H Al-Seekh Ayed G Mohammad |
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Institution: | (1) College of Agriculture, Hebron University, P.O. Box 40, Hebron, West Bank, Palestine |
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Abstract: | This study addressed the hydrological processes of runoff and sedimentation, soil moisture content, and properties under the
effect of different water harvesting techniques (treatments). The study was conducted at three sites, representing environmental
condition gradients, located in the southern part of the West Bank. For each treatment, the study evaluated soil chemical
and physical properties, soil moisture at 30 cm depth, surface runoff and sedimentation at each site. Results showed that
runoff is reduced by 65–85% and sedimentation by 58–69% in stone terraces and semi-circle bunds compared to the control at
the semi-humid site. In addition, stone terraces and contour ridges significantly reduced the amount of total runoff by 80%
and 73%, respectively, at the arid site. Soil moisture content was significantly increased by water harvesting techniques
compared to the control in all treatments at the three study sites. In addition, the difference between the control and the
water harvesting structures were higher in the arid and semi-arid areas than in the semi-humid area. Soil and water conservation,
via utilization of water harvesting structures, is an effective principle for reducing the negative impact of high runoff
intensity and subsequently increasing soil moisture storage from rainfall. Jessour systems in the valley and stone terraces
were effective in increasing soil moisture storage, prolonging the growing season for natural vegetation, and decreasing the
amount of supplemental irrigation required for growing fruit trees. |
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Keywords: | Water harvesting Runoff and sedimentation Soil moisture Soil properties |
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