Journal of Agriculture and Ecology Research International
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A Comprehensive Review of the HEC-HMS Rainfall–Runoff Simulation Model and Its Hydrological Applications
No full textEffective water resources management requires a thorough understanding of the hydrological cycle and its response to natural and human-induced factors. The HEC-HMS model is a versatile tool for simulating rainfall–runoff processes under diverse hydrological and climatic conditions. This study reviews and applies HEC-HMS, integrated with GIS and remote sensing, to assess key watershed parameters such as runoff depth, rainfall–runoff relationships, and peak discharge. Validation from multiple studies demonstrates its reliability for event-based and continuous simulations. Results show that SCS-CN and Green-Ampt methods are effective for event-based modeling, while SMA is preferred for continuous simulations. Sensitivity analyses highlight curve number, infiltration rate, lag time, and base flow as critical parameters. Integration with geospatial tools improves parameter extraction and spatial representation, enabling better analysis in gauged and ungauged basins. HEC-HMS reproduces observed flows accurately, though performance may decline in data-scarce areas or during extreme events. Using integrated hydro-meteorological and GIS-derived datasets, calibration and validation confirmed strong agreement between simulated and observed flows, supporting reliable flood estimation. Overall, HEC-HMS is precise in runoff simulation, applicable to ungauged watersheds, and valuable for water resource assessment, planning, and management. Careful calibration, model selection, and data integration enhance prediction accuracy, establishing HEC-HMS as a robust tool for future hydrological modeling and water management studies
Estimation of Carbon Content in Community Garden Land a Study in Lakan Bilem Village, Nyuatan District, West Kutai Regency
No full textOne of the causes of global warming is the increase in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels and the reduction in forest area as a CO2 absorber in the atmosphere. One solution to reducing CO2 levels in the atmosphere is through the development or improvement of forest vegetation, both natural and community forests. Forests are a vital part of the terrestrial ecosystem, acting as global carbon sinks and playing a role in mitigating the long-term and sustainable impacts of global warming. The objective of this research is to obtain information on the carbon content stored in the biomass of community garden land. This research was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 in Lakan Bilem Village, Nyuatan District, West Kutai Regency, East Kalimantan Province. The research activities included: literature review, field observations, research plot creation, data collection, data analysis, and reporting. The data collected consisted of tree biomass, tree surface biomass, and understory biomass. The results of the study indicate that the amount of carbon stored in community gardens in Lakan Bilem village is 116.35 tons/ha, originating from carbon stored in biomass at the young tree and tree levels (111.64 tons/ha) and carbon stored in forest floor vegetation (4.71 tons/ha)
Cotton and Soybean Based Risk Resilient Intercropping Systems for Rainfed Black Soils of Akola District of Maharashtra, India
No full textThe National Initiative on Climate Resilient Agriculture Project (NICRA) of AICRP for Dryland Agriculture, Dr. PDKV, Akola is implemented with study to analyze and popularize risk resilient rainfed intercropping systems in black soils of Akola district to mitigate climate vulnerability. Keeping this point in view, the assessment studies on different intercropping systems along with their respective sole crops were implemented as technology demonstrations in a participatory demonstration and action research mode with active participation of farmers in Warkhed and Kajleshwar village of Barshitakli Taluka of Akola district of Maharashtra during the year 2021-22 to 2023-24 as a part of the study. The intercropping system of soybean + pigeonpea (4:2) has given significantly higher soybean equivalent yield (2040 kg ha-1), net monetary returns (Rs.80891/- ha-1) and B:C ratio (3.65). Soybean + piegeonpea (6:1) also significantly enhance the soybean equivalent yield which was 1829 kg ha-1 and B:C ratio of 3.03 which was higher than sole soybean i.e 1415 kg ha-1 with B:C ratio of 2.59. Cotton + greengram (1:1) recorded higher cotton equivalent yield (2116 Kg ha-1), net monetary returns (Rs.95399/- ha-1), B:C ratio (2.82) and rainwater use efficiency (2.58) over sole cotton which has recorded yield of 1645 Kg ha-1, net monetary returns (Rs.74035/- ha-1), B:C ratio (2.57) and rainwater use efficiency (2.03). In Akola district of Maharashtra soybean + pigeonpea (4:2) and cotton + greengram (1:1) were identified as the best risk resilient intercropping systems that would help provide sustainable crop production in rainfed regions
The Potential of Neem as an Organic Fertilizer and Biopesticide for Enhancing Soil Fertility, Nematode and Foliar Pest Suppression, and Okra Growth
No full textNeem (Azadirachta indica) is a rapidly growing tree from the mahogany family (Meliaceae), and it has traditionally been used in agriculture, environment, and public health. Previous research, however, has not explored the promising impact of neem as a basal and foliar organic fertilizer and pesticide. It is against this background that this study was done to investigate and examine the use of neem as a basal organic fertilizer and pesticide alternative for environmental and consumer safety. Using a randomized complete block design with three replications, we evaluated seven treatments, including neem leaf paste (NLP), neem leaf extract (NLE), synthetic fertilizers (NPK), and controls in 5×4 m plots. The results revealed that the organic IPM module (NLP × NLE) significantly improved soil health parameters by increasing organic matter content by 53% compared to the control while reducing the C/N ratio. The treatment also showed remarkable pest suppression, decreasing root-knot nematode populations by 89% and maintaining beneficial insect numbers. Neem-treated plots experienced a 40% reduction in foliar damage from Podagrica spp., resulting in a yield increase of 296% compared to the control. These findings demonstrate a practical application of neem in sustainable okra cultivation, thereby offering a low-cost and environmentally friendly solution for smallholder farmers. The result of this study presents a practical application of neem in sustainable okra cultivation by offering cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions for smallholder farmers. The organic IPM module 3 is therefore recommended for improving soil fertility, reducing soil and foliar pest pressure, and enhancing crop yield safely and sustainably
Participatory Evaluation and Demonstration of Early-maturing Sorghum Varieties under Irrigated Conditions in Darussalam Kebele, Jarati District, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia
No full textA study was conducted to improve agro-pastoralists\u27 awareness and promote the adoption of full-package sorghum production technologies. Participatory evaluation and demonstration of early-maturing improved sorghum varieties under irrigation conditions were carried out with their full production packages in Jarati District, Afder Zone, Somali Region, Ethiopia. Before the demonstration, a gender-inclusive Pastoral and Agro-Pastoral Research Extension Group (PAPREG) was established in the study kebele. Capacity-building training was provided to PAPREG members and extension agents on sorghum agronomic practices.
The demonstration used a single-plot design, with each variety planted on a 10 m × 10 m plot within selected agro-pastoral lands. The experiment tested four sorghum varieties, including three improved ones, Melkam, Hamat, and Dekeba, along with a local variety used as a control. To ensure active participation and knowledge sharing, a PAPREG group comprising 30 members was formed.
Yield data and agro-pastoralists’ perceptions were collected. Quantitative data, such as grain yield, were analyzed using simple descriptive statistics, while qualitative data, such as farmers’ preferences, were assessed through pairwise and direct matrix ranking.
The findings indicated that the improved sorghum variety Melkam performed best and was most preferred by agro-pastoralists due to its earliness, palatability, drought tolerance, and disease resistance. Therefore, Melkam is recommended for wider promotion and large-scale production in the study area and other similar agro-ecological zones
Economic Feaiblity Analysis of Sorghum Harvester
No full textManual harvesting of sorghum is labour-intensive, expensive and requires a large number of laborers. This study evaluates and carried out economic feasibility analysis of the developed sorghum harvester. It was determined investment in mechanical harvesting is financially sound by comparing it to manual methods. The performance of the developed sorghum harvester was compared with the manual method in the sorghum field in terms of cost and time per hectare. We determined that harvesting one hectare of sorghum with a developed sorghum harvester takes between 2.78 and 2.9 h. The effective field capacity and field efficiency of the sorghum harvester were found in the range of 0.322 to 0.357 ha.h-1 and 76.50 to 82.67 per cent. The average cost of operation of a sorghum harvester was found to be Rs.752 h-1 and Rs.2199 ha-1. The manual cost of operation by using sickle was found to be Rs.3000 ha-1. It was found that there was a saving cost of Rs. 801 ha-1. (26.70%) over manual sorghum harvesting. The saving in time of 77.08 h ha-1 (96.35%) was achieved for sorghum crop by tractor operated sorghum harvester. The BEP, PBP and BC ratio of the sorghum harvester was worked out as 216.25 h y-1, 397 h and 6.04 respectively
The Influence of Biochars Derived from Different Agricultural Wastes on Water Use Efficiency and Wheat Yield in Two Contrasting Textural Soils
No full textA greenhouse pot experiment was conducted to investigate the impact of various types of biochars originated from agricultural biomass on wheat biological yield (BY), harvest index (HI) and water use efficiency (WUE) in two types of soils of dissimilar textural and chemical properties. Two types of soils were moderate acidic clayey loam soil (pH, 5.07) and non-acidic clay soil (pH; 7.25). The five types of biochars amendments namely, rice husk waste biochar (RHWB), hazelnut waste biochar (HWB), wheat straw waste biochar (WSWB), tea waste biochar (TWB) and mixed wood waste biochar (MWWB) were applied and their effects on water use efficiency (WUE), harvest index (HI) and biological yield (BY) of wheat evaluated. The design of experiment was completely randomized with three replications, the biochar application rates were 0% and 2%. Most of the applied biochars improved WUE, HI, and BY in moderate acidic clayey loam soil. Non-significant changes observed for non-acidic clay soil. The results implies that biochar amendments in moderate acidic clayey loam soil could modify physicochemical properties of soil and improve water use efficiency and yield of wheat. Our results further highlights that the primary textural characteristic and other physicochemical properties of soil might affect the biochars’ effectiveness on water use efficiency and yield of wheat
Assessment of Soil Physico-chemical Characteristics in Mining-impacted and Agricultural Landscapes of the Ketki Coal Belt, Surajpur District, Chhattisgarh, India
No full textAlthough the environmental impacts of coal extraction on soil systems are well recognized, the Ketki Coal Mine in Surajpur District has received little scientific attention despite decades of continuous operation. To address this gap, the present study assessed how mining activities have reshaped the chemical properties and nutrient status of nearby soils. Fourteen samples were collected along two mining transects situated 2-3 km from the excavation zone and from agricultural lands located 4-6 km away. Soil material taken from 15-30 cm and 30-50 cm depths was analysed for pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, major nutrients, and micronutrients obtained through DTPA extraction and measured with atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Marked spatial contrasts emerged from the assessment. Soils on the northern side of the mine exhibited pronounced acidity, while those to the west showed alkaline tendencies, suggesting variation in the mineral character of overburden deposits. Mining-affected soils also contained noticeably reduced organic carbon and diminished nitrogen and phosphorus levels. In contrast, agricultural soils retained more balanced fertility and showed higher concentrations of iron, manganese, and copper. Statistical evaluation using ANOVA, together with supporting biostatistical procedures, indicated significant differences between mining-influenced sites and agricultural areas for several key parameters. Overall, the findings reveal substantial deterioration of soil quality around the Ketki mine and highlight the importance of organic inputs, targeted nutrient management, and continued monitoring to aid ecological restoration
Analysis of Agricultural Land Capabilities in the Spatial Plan of the Berau District, Indonesia (2016 – 2036)
No full textAn analysis of the carrying capacity of agricultural land needs to be carried out to determine the land\u27s ability to provide food to meet the needs of the population in an area within a certain time. Land capability is a component used to determine the suitability of land potential for land use. Land use that is not by its capabilities has the potential to experience land degradation. The research aims to determine the condition of agricultural land specified in the Berau Regency Regional Spatial Plan based on land capacity. The research was carried out in the Berau Regency area, East Kalimantan Province, especially in agricultural areas consisting of plantation areas, wetland agriculture, and dryland agriculture. This research uses a spatial descriptive method, namely an approach used to describe and analyze phenomena related to a particular space or location. The research data used is secondary data obtained from local government agencies, data provider websites, and the Geospatial Information Agency (BIG). The data analysis used to determine land capability is carried out using Weight factor matching, namely determining the land capability class based on the heaviest class of parameters in each map unit and for land suitability analysis of the land capability class of agricultural areas based on suitability resulting from evaluations that refer to land characteristic criteria. The results of the research show that land capability classes are dominated by classes III of 200.611,42 hectares for use of 166.526,94 hectares of plantation land; wet land covering an area of 11.317,82 hectares and dry land covering an area of 22.746,66 hectares; and class IV land capacity of 181.071,29 hectares for plantation land use of 162.331,20 hectares; wet land covering an area of 3.699,70 hectares, and dry land covering an area of 15.040,39 hectares; The total area of land that is declared appropriate is 501.475.28 hectares (76.11%) and the area of land that is temporarily declared non-compliant is 119.792.57 hectares (23.89%); and this non-conformity occurs on land with land capability classes V, VI, and VIII
Integrated Management Strategies for Nosema bombycis in Bombyx mori: Diagnostics, Probiotics and Chemical Controls
No full textThe major constraints in silk cocoon production are occurrence of the diseases in silkworm. Pebrine (protozoan disease) is a major disease of the silkworm, B. mori caused by microsporidian parasite, Nosema bombycis N. N. bombycis infection causing pebrine in silkworm is transmitted both horizontally and vertically, any lapse in monitoring the progeny could result in serious damage to the sericulture industry. The literature reveals that, pebrine disease is manageable but very difficult to eradicate. Effective management of pebrine in Bombyx mori depends on a layered approach combining early detection (predictive, pupal, forced‑eclosion and mother‑moth microscopy or immunological screening), rigorous hygiene (egg surface sterilization, disinfection of layings, rearing trays, grainage houses) and selective intervention. Lactobacillus casei supplementation, administered at 10⁸ CFU/mL during early instars, significantly enhances larval survival (91 % vs. 68 % in infected controls) and improves growth and cocoon metrics, likely through midgut pH modulation, competitive adhesion, or immune stimulation. Meanwhile, chemical strategies such as bed disinfectants (e.g. Vijetha), carbendazim formulations and benzimidazole derivatives offer variable efficacy but carry timing constraints and potential toxicological or residue risks. Taken together, these findings underscore that integrated pebrine control, anchored in vigilant pathogen monitoring, probiotic protection and judicious chemical use offers the most sustainable path to disease prevention and improved sericultural outcomes