Evaluation of Structural Stability and Consistency as Indicators of Soil Health in Contrasting Production Systems (#2179)

Authors

Valarezo Carapaz, Darla Stefania

Peña Venegas, Ricardo Alexander

Abstract

Soil quality is essential for agricultural production and environmental sustainability. Its physical structure influences water retention, aggregate stability, and nutrient availability, essential factors for crop growth. Agricultural management directly impacts these properties, determining soil resilience to erosion and climate change. Evaluating physical parameters such as Atterberg limits allows us to understand soil response to different uses and improve its management. This research analyzes soils with different management systems. Through field and laboratory measurements, key soil health indicators will be established by comparing the effect of soil use through physical properties in different soil management systems in Zamorano. The characterization of its structural stability will provide valuable information to optimize sustainable agricultural practices.