SOIL MICRONUTRIENT CONTENT ANALYSIS AND MAPPING OF AGRICULTURAL SALT-AFFECTED SOILS AROUND ABAYA AND CHAMO LAKES, SOUTH ETHIOPIA RIFT VALLEY

Abstract

Background. Salt-affected soils cause a significant portion of land to become unproductive yearly; its impact is severe in sub-Saharan African nations, especially the arid and semiarid lowlands, and the Rift Valley regions of Ethiopia are typically host to naturally salt-affected areas. Objective. To analyze the micronutrient content and map the micronutrient fertility status of agricultural salt-affected soils around Abaya and Chamo Lakes South Ethiopia Rift Valley. Methodology. A systematic sampling technique was employed to obtain 300 soil samples for the investigation from two depths (0-20 and 20-40cm), with a 600m sampling interval, of which 30 were used. The research data was analyzed using the application of standardized analytical procedures for soil data and descriptive and geostatistical techniques. Results. According to the study, there is low zinc available in the soil but an ample amount of iron, manganese, and copper. In addition, the study's findings revealed that, whereas the remaining micronutrient regional variability is found at long distances, available iron exhibited a regional variation in soil quality at small distances. Implications. The study suggests applying organic matter for better soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. Moreover, the results recommend that soils affected by salt might recover using various materials. Conclusions. In the study areas, zinc fertilizer may still be needed for an optimal yield even though the research area has low amounts of zinc fertilizer. The study concluded with management recommendations to minimize the adverse effects of very high micronutrient content on human health and plant growth.