On the issue of chemical mechanism and soil salinity degree determination: Russian and foreign practices

Abstract

Purpose: analysis of the currently available approaches to determining the chemical mechanism and degree of soil salinity. In the course of research, the researches of Russian and foreign scientists, Russian and foreign methodological documents in the field of determining the degree and type of land salinization were studied. The methods of data analysis, processing and generalization were used. Discussion. The retrospective analysis of the Russian and foreign practices of assessing the degree and types of soil salt degradation was made by the author. The main indicators, assessed in the process of determining the degree and chemistry of soil salinization, as well as the methods for their determination, generally accepted in Russia and abroad, are given. Identification of these characteristics is of great importance in planning and carrying out reclamation activities aimed at increasing soil fertility, preventing soil degradation and loss of agricultural and commercial value. Conclusions. Based on a retrospective analysis of various possibilities for determining and classification of soil salt degradation, it was concluded that there are various methods oriented both to individual characteristics of soils in order to identify their unfavorable salt composition, and to different approaches to the procedures and methods of diagnosis. The main purpose of identifying the salt imbalance in agricultural lands composition is the possibility of preserving and improving their fertility, which, undoubtedly is carried out through reclamation measures in the case of their degradation. In order to develop uniformity in assessment and interpretation of data on the salt composition of soils, the degree of their salinity and the need for one or another type of reclamation work, it is necessary to develop a system of indicators based on the experience of Russian and foreign scientists with international practices. The development of the specified regulatory and methodological documentation should be focused on the international level, take into account all possible indicators affecting the accuracy of determination, excluding unnecessary details.