Changes in the properties of dark chestnut soils under the impact of long-term irrigation (the Kakhovka irrigation system)

摘要

Changes in some physical and chemical properties of dark chestnut soils irrigated for 27 years with fresh water from the Kakhovka irrigation canal are discussed. Statistical characteristics of the chemical composition of the irrigation water in the Kakhovka irrigation system are given for 1975-2001. It is shown that the water is generally suitable for irrigation, though its pH increases regularly in the summer. The long-term soil irrigation has resulted in a rise in the groundwater level and the substitution of the irrigation-induced hydromorphic percolative water regime for an automorphic nonpercolative water regime. The soils have remained nonsaline. The leaching of calcium carbonates beyond the soil profile and the enrichment of the soil adsorption complex within the layer of 0-1 m in magnesium have been registered.