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Application of Geoinformatics in Natural Resource Management at Micro Level
Action Plan for Resource Management
Keeping in view the need for rainwater harvesting structures, soil and moisture conservation, development of fodder and fuelwood, social forestry, silvipasture, afforestation etc. the following Action Plan is recommended for implementation in Keshampet Mandal for optimising the resource management:
- Rain water Harvesting Structures
The areas of dykes, reffs, out crops, lithologic contacts, black soil areas, saline soil areas, etc were avoided in recommending rainwater harvesting structures. In view of the poor permeability and expected faster sitting rate in the black soil areas it is recommended for promoting rainwater harvesting structures in the region.
- Soil and Moisture Conservation
Soil and water are the basic natural resources whose conservation is of paramount importance, particularly in a semiarid region. The conservation of these resources will not only increase the production of food, fodder, and fiber but also check the on sight of drought. These are to be taken up in the areas where rainwater harvesting structures are not possible.
- Vegetative and Contour Bunding
Vegetative barriers are closely spaced plants usually a few rows of grasses of shrubs grown along the contours for erosion control in agricultural lands for preventing soil erosion and silting of percolation tanks, check dams and minor irrigation tanks. Contour bunds are essential for delaying the surface run-off and to increase the time of concentration and there by allowing more opportunity for rain water to be absorbed in the soil profile. Planting of soil binding species, gully control works will check the soil erosion. Along with the conservation measures, introduction of optimal farming systems, alternate land use and adoption of crops requiring less moisture in soil and which can supply fodder, will improve productivity which in turn will lead to better economic development of the region. An area of 1,15,931 ha is recommended for treatment with vegetative barriers, contour bunding with stone checks etc. An area of 56.16% for soil erosion control measures including planting of soil bunding species, gully control works, etc is recommended in the Mandal.
- Irrigation Water Management
In irrigated areas covering 37,269 ha in the Mandal , irrigation water management and horticulture species planting on field bunds is recommended. Efficient method of water application such as drip and sprinkler irrigation along with improved agronomic practices help to economize water and increase water use efficiency. Planting of horticultural species on field bunds would act as shelter belt to prevent wind erosion and reduce evapotranspiration from crops. They also provide additional income to the farmers. Ground water development with conservation measures/check dams if required and development of horticulture / nurseries / sericulture is recommended along the fractures/ lineaments covering an area of 35,633 ha in the Mandal .
- Fodder , Fuel Wood and Forest Management
Apart from low food grain production, non availability of fodder, fuelwood and degraded forest lands are the major problem in the forest lands are the major problems in the district. Conversion of marginal lands into arable lands has decreased the availability of fodder and fueldwood. Non-availability of grazing lands and pastures has lead to deforestation. The loss of natural forest cover is highly damaging to the soil and to the micro-climate. Hence, to provide fodder, fuel wood and restore the natural forest cover, alternate land use systems have been recommended in the marginal lands, tank foreshore and degraded forest lands.
- Fodder/Fuel Wood/Silvipasture/Social Forestry
Most of the marginal lands are very poor in productivity and are the source of series soil erosion. By adopting suitable soil and water conservation measures like contour trenches and contour bunding, these lands can be brought under fodder/ fuel wood/ silvi pasture / social forestry development.
An area of 16,174 ha is recommended for fodder/ silvipasture. An area of 14,932 ha is recommended for fuelwood/ silvipasture. In tank foreshore areas, area covering 1242 ha is recommended for fodder/fuelwood development.
- Afforestation
The entire forest area covering about 2.7% of the geographical area is under degraded/under utilised condition with barren rock out crops. In 15,586 ha of degraded forest lands with gentle to moderate slope afforestation/ silvipasture is recommended. Moderate to steep slope forest areas, afforestation with contour trenches is recommended and in 885 ha of barren rocky areas, afforestation with special efforts is recommended.
- Shelter Belt/Strip Plantation
Trees play a vital role in the maintenance of the environment and sustenance of mankind. Besides providing income to people, they also provide shade to cattle and human alike. Hence, shelter belt/ strip plantations are recommended along all the major roads/ railway tracks in the block covering 936 km in length.
- Quarrying
Some of the barren rocky areas identified and demarcated in the block may be taken up for afforestation with cordon wall or used for quarrying provided suitable environmental protection measures taken. This would generate employment and income to the local people.
Conclusion
There is a need to adopt new tools, techniques and technology for proper use and conservation practices for resource use. Geoinformatics have evolved as a proven tool for resource planning . The high resolution satellite data and the GPS use made it possible to plan at land parcel level. Precision agriculture models and judicious use and regeneration of resources can be ensured at local level, at almost real time basis. Thus geoinformatics hold a great promise for resource planning in India in foreseeable future.
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