Characterization and Classification of Soils of Zamra Irrigation Scheme, Northeastern Ethiopia

Understanding soil types of a given area is an important prerequisite to design optimum management strategies such as irrigation water management. The study was thus conducted on characterization and classification of Zamra irrigation scheme in Abergelle district of Amhara Region, which has an area of 196.16 ha. For this study, 53 auger observations, four profile pits, extensive visual observations, reconnaissance survey, and descriptions of soil profiles and laboratory analysis were used to study the morphological and physicochemical properties of the soils of the scheme. Twelve disturbed and undisturbed soil samples were collected from all profiles of each genetic horizon for laboratory analysis. The soils of the study area were identified based on Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations/World Reference Base for Soil Resources (FAO/WRB) 2015. The results revealed that the textural classes of all profiles of the study site ranged from sandy clay loam to sandy loam. The chemical properties of the soil in terms of total nitrogen, organic matter, and available phosphorus were in the very low and low categories as per the criteria developed by Tekalign and Olsen, respectively, whereas exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K, and Na), cation exchange capacity, and extractable micronutrients (Fe, Mn, Zn, and Cu) were medium to high. Based on morphological, physical, and chemical analyses, the soils were classified as Leptic Regosols (Eutric, Loamic; 21.99% of the area), Vertic Cambisols (Hypereutric; 17.87%), Haplic Regosols (Eutric; 36.69%), and Rhodic Nitisols (Eutric; 23.44%). Therefore, management techniques that enhance soil fertility (including crop rotations, manuring, fallow periods, proper management of crop residues, and leguminous cover crops) and water-saving technologies suitable to the terrain of the area are the best options to enhance land productivity in the area.