Describe the different applications of remote sensing and GIS in soil management, such as crop yield prediction, fertilizer management, and soil erosion monitoring, and evaluate their potential benefits in addressing problem soils.
Remote sensing and geographical information systems (GIS) help develop an erosion map, which is necessary for predicting excessive soil loss. The map is also practical in the implementation of erosion management strategies. Many factors affect the efficiency of irrigation water use. GIS and remote sensing can be used to make estimates on soil erosion risk and land degradation status, which is important worldwide in agriculture, the environment and in urban areas. These indicators detect areas with different potential for the development of erosion processes - plane and linear erosion. To assess the condition of the vegetation cover and its impact on the development of erosion, it is necessary to classify a satellite image to determine the types of land use. Soil moisture data are derived from remote-sensing techniques, with a focus on the soil moisture-specific satellites ASCAT and SMOS. Furthermore, several physical catchments descriptors (PCDs) are analyzed and the result shows that larger slopes and drainage density, in general, mean a higher risk of flooding. Remote sensing (RS) technologies have been widely used to investigate soil degradation as it is highly efficient, time-saving, and broad-scope. This review encompasses recent advances and the state-of-the-art of ground, proximal, and novel RS techniques in soil degradation-related studies.
Actually, Remote sensing and GIS have numerous applications in soil management, which can help in addressing problem soils. Some of the applications are:
Soil mapping: Remote sensing and GIS can be used to map soil types, soil properties, and soil degradation. This information can then be used to develop soil management plans, including soil conservation and soil improvement strategies.
Soil moisture monitoring: Remote sensing can be used to monitor soil moisture content, which is an important factor in crop growth and irrigation management. This information can be used to optimize irrigation schedules and reduce water use.
Soil erosion monitoring: Remote sensing and GIS can be used to monitor soil erosion rates and identify areas of high erosion risk. This information can be used to develop erosion control strategies, such as planting cover crops or installing erosion control structures.
Soil nutrient management: Remote sensing can be used to monitor plant nutrient uptake and identify areas of nutrient deficiency or excess. This information can be used to develop fertilizer management plans and optimize crop yields.
Soil salinity mapping: Remote sensing and GIS can be used to map soil salinity levels, which can help in identifying areas of high salinity risk and developing salinity management strategies.
In fact, the potential benefits of using remote sensing and GIS in addressing problem soils are many. These technologies can provide accurate and timely information on soil properties, moisture content, erosion rates, nutrient levels, and salinity levels, which can help in developing effective soil management plans. By optimizing irrigation schedules, reducing water use, controlling erosion, managing nutrients, and reducing salinity levels, these technologies can help in improving soil health and productivity. Additionally, remote sensing and GIS can help in identifying areas of high risk for soil degradation, which can help in preventing further damage to the soil. Overall, the use of remote sensing and GIS in soil management has the potential to increase crop yields, reduce environmental damage, and improve food security.