Effect of Reforestation using Tectona grandis on Infiltration and Soil Water Retention

Background

In this study, researchers examine the effect of teak (Tectona grandis) reforestation on soil infiltration and water retention in Sri Lanka. They compare the reforested site (12 years after planting) with a corn field and an abandoned pasture dominated by Imperata cylindrica grass.

Research Goals & Methods

Researchers found that the reforested teak site demonstrated greater rates of soil infiltration due to the greater quantity of macropores (measured by the lower bulk density) and soil organic matter (6-8% in the reforested site compared to 2-3% in the grassland and cultivated sites). The reforested site also showed greater soil moisture compared to the other sites.

Conclusions & Takeaways

 Reforested sites have the potential to accept and store more water than cultivated sites, thus decreasing surface runoff and restoring hydrological balance.