Optimización del uso del suelo en pendientes para pastizales: Estrategias de identificación de áreas designadas para uso pecuario.

Abstract

The present study evaluated the effects of slope soil management through the implementation of conservation techniques, such as terracing and vegetation cover, comparing them with plots without these practices. The objective of the project was to optimize the use of sloped land for pastures, applying identification strategies and terracing techniques with cover in areas designated for livestock use. To achieve this, temperature, humidity, soil compaction, vegetation cover, erosion, and water infiltration capacity were analyzed over a period of 90 days, simulating drought conditions with sprinkler irrigation. The results indicated that the plots with conservation techniques showed a greater capacity to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature, which favored the conservation of water resources and plant growth. Moreover, the implementation of terracing and vegetation cover improved soil structure, reducing compaction and increasing porosity, which favored vegetation development. Erosion also progressively decreased, and the water infiltration rate significantly increased, indicating a greater capacity to conserve both soil and water. These findings highlight the effectiveness of conservation practices in improving soil structure, reducing erosion, and increasing water retention, which contributes to agricultural sustainability and enhanced productivity on sloped lands. Terracing strategies with cover crops are essential for the proper management of soils in areas designated for grazing and cultivation.