Site assessment for pasture production.

Abstract

The soil series described in the National Soil Classification System are re-classified into thirteen groups which are further sub-divided on the basis of topsoil characteristics, degree of leaching, depth and texture. These are the main criteria for assessing the suitability of sites for pasture production. The occurrence of these soil groups in two major bioclimates in Natal is considered and they are rated for pasture potential and erosion hazard. The proposed system is applied on a farm situation in a selected bioclimate in Natal. In this example the influence of slope, rockiness, aspect and landscape position are taken into account.

Keywords: aspect; characteristics; classification; depth; erosion; leaching; natal; national soil classification system; pasture; pasture production; slope; soil; soil classes; soil groups; soil series; south africa; topsoil