Program Type
Undergraduate
Faculty Advisor
Dr. Michael Bradley
Document Type
Poster
Location
Face-to-face
Start Date
18-4-2024 3:00 PM
Abstract
This study will attempt to identify the best soil erosion mitigation methods for Arkansas ornamental landscape settings by comparing the strengths and weaknesses of known techniques. Since soil is not a renewable resource, we must apply conservation practices wherever possible, not just in agricultural settings. To determine the most effective erosion prevention techniques, this study will review soil studies conducted by the NRCS and NASA, as well as articles on best practices observed in ornamental landscape and agricultural industries. These are analyzed by comparing and contrasting techniques against known problems with Arkansas soil to determine which methods are most effective.
Based on the available methods, the most effective erosion control method in ornamental landscapes is the use of groundcovers, which hold soil in place at a deeper level than a solution like mulch or landscape fabric. Groundcovers also aid in soil amendment by contributing to nitrogen fixation, water penetration, drainage, and increasing soil pore space. By contrast, solutions like landscape fabric and rock can cause irregularities in the soil’s surface, increasing likelihood of erosion, or compaction of pore space over time, decreasing the soil’s usability. The uses for groundcovers are like that of cover crops in agricultural settings. Using plants to hold soil in place promotes a healthy ecosystem and aids the Arkansas landscaper in soil amendments for rocky, clay soil. Use of groundcovers also aids the landscaper by reducing time and labor needs, because it reduces the need for heavy fertilizers, weeding, and herbicides.
Key words: soil, horticulture, landscaping, conservation, sustainability, geology, flood, irrigation
Recommended Citation
Cutsinger, Abby J., "Arkansas Soil Erosion and Conservation Methods in Ornamental Landscapes" (2024). ATU Research Symposium. 53.
https://orc.library.atu.edu/atu_rs/2024/2024/53
Included in
Agribusiness Commons, Agricultural Science Commons, Botany Commons, Environmental Education Commons, Geology Commons, Horticulture Commons, Natural Resources and Conservation Commons, Natural Resources Management and Policy Commons, Sustainability Commons
Arkansas Soil Erosion and Conservation Methods in Ornamental Landscapes
Face-to-face
This study will attempt to identify the best soil erosion mitigation methods for Arkansas ornamental landscape settings by comparing the strengths and weaknesses of known techniques. Since soil is not a renewable resource, we must apply conservation practices wherever possible, not just in agricultural settings. To determine the most effective erosion prevention techniques, this study will review soil studies conducted by the NRCS and NASA, as well as articles on best practices observed in ornamental landscape and agricultural industries. These are analyzed by comparing and contrasting techniques against known problems with Arkansas soil to determine which methods are most effective.
Based on the available methods, the most effective erosion control method in ornamental landscapes is the use of groundcovers, which hold soil in place at a deeper level than a solution like mulch or landscape fabric. Groundcovers also aid in soil amendment by contributing to nitrogen fixation, water penetration, drainage, and increasing soil pore space. By contrast, solutions like landscape fabric and rock can cause irregularities in the soil’s surface, increasing likelihood of erosion, or compaction of pore space over time, decreasing the soil’s usability. The uses for groundcovers are like that of cover crops in agricultural settings. Using plants to hold soil in place promotes a healthy ecosystem and aids the Arkansas landscaper in soil amendments for rocky, clay soil. Use of groundcovers also aids the landscaper by reducing time and labor needs, because it reduces the need for heavy fertilizers, weeding, and herbicides.
Key words: soil, horticulture, landscaping, conservation, sustainability, geology, flood, irrigation