FAST FACTS
The majority of soils in South Africa are degraded, with areas receiving less than 600mm of rain a year at particularly high risk.
The overuse of agricultural chemicals such as fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides contributes to soil degradation.
Agricultural waste, such as excess plant material, provides an ideal source of organic matter that can be used to rehabilitate poor soil.
South Africa is a predominantly semi-arid country that struggles with dryland degradation. Drylands are areas that face significant water scarcity, while soil degradation refers to the loss of the biological or economic productivity of land. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations defines soil degradation as a change in soil health status that diminishes the capacity of the ecosystem to provide goods and services for its beneficiaries.
According to Jaco Koch, lecturer and researcher at North-West University’s School of Geo and Spatial Sciences, dryland degradation occurs mostly in regions with an average annual rainfall of 600mm or less, which applies to about two-thirds of South Africa. Koch says it is estimated that 60% of the country’s soil cover is degraded.
“It’s possible for degraded soils to be rehabilitated if the impact and scale of degradation is not too extreme. However, there’s no blanket solution for soil degradation, and each case should be addressed on its own merit.”
The rehabilitation of soil calls for site-specific investigation, including detailed soil analyses, to quantify the extent of the degradation. This makes it possible to determine the activities, ameliorants or additives needed for the soil to regain its optimal capacity.
DANGERS TO THE SOIL
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Review: the Toyota Hilux 2.8GD-6 DC 4×4 GR-Sport III
The third iteration of the Hilux GR-Sport has finally achieved a sense of presence and style befitting its raceinspired branding. But is this the ultimate modern Hilux? Car Magazine takes a closer look.
Why maize prices soar in Kenya and Malawi but not Tanzania
Namhla Landani, an economist at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, and Arthur Khomotso Mahuma, economist and researcher at the Centre for Competition, Regulation and Economic Development, University of Johannesburg, analyse the issue.
Wet carcass syndrome: a scourge in SA sheep farming
Wet carcass syndrome continues to take a huge financial toll on South African sheep farmers. Octavia Avesca Spandiel spoke to two experts about the ongoing genetic research aimed at addressing this issue.
Pollination innovation
Bee-Tech Group is transforming South African agriculture with pollination technologies that boost crop yields and enhance sustainability. Founder Michiel Bruggeman spoke to Octavia Avesca Spandiel.
The valuable addition that makes this farm tick
Owning the value chain provides farmers with far more control over their produce. However, it requires a fine balance between production and ensuring there is a strong and steady market. Lindi Botha visited Rosemary Hill to find out how this essential oil producer leverages hospitality to make the farm viable.
The benefits of recirculating aquaculture systems
A powerful set of attributes has established recirculating aquaculture systems as a cornerstone of global temperate fish farming, writes Leslie Ter Morshuizen, owner of Aquaculture Solutions.
Minister has big plans for emerging and commercial farmers
DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen spoke to Glenneis Kriel about his priorities for his department over the next five years, including an increased focus on biosecurity.
New study aims to make wheat more disease resistant
A recent international study explains how bread wheat has helped to transform the ancient world on its path to becoming the iconic crop that today helps sustain a global population of eight billion.
Conservation farming and biodiversity boost soil health and sustainability
A recent academic event focused on research into the links between soil biodiversity, soil health and sustainable agriculture
What has led to the unparalleled rice shortage in Japan?
Japan is facing a rice shortage amid concerns about a potential 'megaquake', several typhoons and an annual week-long holiday, which has led to an increase in panic buying.