Soil Physicochemical Properties and Their Susceptibility to Degradation under Different Forest Land Uses in a Critical Wetland Conservation Reserve, Uttarakhand, India

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the soil physicochemical properties and identify the factors influencing them across different land-use types within the forested section of the ecologically significant Jhilmil Jheel Wetland Conservation Reserve. The research was designed around a comparative analysis of three distinct forest sub-sites: Mixed Moist Deciduous Forest (483.9 ha), Riverine Forest (10 ha), and Secondary Scrub Land Forest (25 ha). The study was conducted in the Jhilmil Jheel Wetland Conservation Reserve, located in Haridwar, Uttarakhand, India during the month of April to June, 2023. Soil samples were collected and analysed for key physicochemical parameters, including soil pH, texture, bulk density, organic carbon, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, and exchangeable potassium, following standard laboratory procedures. The analysis revealed that the Mixed Moist Deciduous Forest soil possessed significantly superior physicochemical properties, playing a crucial role in nutrient preservation. For instance, the bulk density was lowest in mixed moist deciduous forest (1.28 g cm-3), Organic carbon (2.95%), Total Nitrogen (0.24%), available phosphorus (17.13 ppm) and exchangeable potassium (258.5 ppm). In contrast, the Riverine Forest and Secondary Scrub Land Forest exhibited substantially reduced nutrient levels. Statistical analysis confirmed significant mean differences, indicating these latter sites are more vulnerable to soil degradation and desertification. The study concludes that land-use variation is a critical factor influencing soil physicochemical properties, which directly affects soil biological activity. The findings underscore the importance of the Mixed Moist Deciduous Forest for soil health and provide essential insights for guiding future conservation strategies, soil management practices, and ensuring the long-term sustainability of this vital wetland ecosystem.