Erosion hazard index analysis of several land uses in Watatu Village, Donggala Regency

Abstract

Abstract Watatu Village is one of the villages located in Donggala Regency and as the capital city of South Banawa Sub-District which has significant potential in the agricultural sector, including cocoa plantations, oil palm trees, and paddy fields. This research aims as a source of information correlated to land-use policies and the erosion hazard index in Watatu Village, South Banawa Sub-District, Donggala Regency. The research was carried out by using the descriptive explorative method, and the observed variables were carried out through a survey. Soil sampling was determined purposively (purposive sampling) based on the category of land use and slope at the research location. Intact and incomplete soil samples were taken as many as 21 samples at seven land-use units. Sample analysis was performed at the Soil Science Laboratory on the Erosion Hazard Index, namely (1) soil texture, (2) soil structure, (3) organic matter content, and (4) permeability, and (5) bulk density. The results of the Erosion Hazard Index analysis showed that the high erosion hazard index was found in Land use unit 2 (mixed gardens), Land use unit 4 (cocoa gardens), Land use unit 5 (mixed gardens), and Land use unit 7 (Shrub). Thereby, conservation actions needed to preserve the environment to prevent or inhibit the rate of erosion and maintain the stability of land use.