A pilot project on the potential contribution of palm‐mat geotextiles to soil conservation

• DOI: 10.1002/esp.1349
• Publication Date: 2006-04-06T12:40:24Z
• Authors: Kathleen Davies; Michael A. Fullen; Colin A. Booth
• Keywords: Buffer strip; Erosion Control; Buffer zone

Abstract Geotextiles constructed from Borassus aethiopum (black rhun palm) leaves are currently being investigated for their effectiveness in decreasing water erosion. The study aims to develop sustainable methods of soil conservation where the material meets selected criteria (readily available, simple and cost‐effective manufacture, provides immediate erosion control possibly increases fertility organic matter content). Grid mats were manufactured a cottage workshop Gambia, West Africa. They under investigation at Hilton Experimental Site Shropshire, UK. Eight runoff plots (10 × 1 m on 15° slope) used, with duplicate treatments: (i) bare soil; (ii) grassed; (iii) palm‐mat buffer zones lower end plots; (iv) completely covered palm‐mats. Results one year field (2002–03) indicate sediment yield is 36·8 per cent replicated 35·9 zone plots, compared plots. Sediment equated 0·45 t ha −1 soil, 0·09 grassed 0·17 both results suggest application as protective strips highly effective temperate climates. Future work intended follow this pilot well‐researched guidelines practical applications other global regions, namely Africa, Southeast Asia South America. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.