Information
A framework relating soil surface condition to infiltration and sediment and nutrient mobilisation in grazing rangelands of North-eastern Queensland, Australia – Site 2 Pinnacle Transect
Level 1: General Description
Purpose
This study aims to provide evidence that grazing induces variations in soil surface condition affected infiltration and runoff composition. The objective of the study is to develop a framework relating to ground cover and soil surface condition from the impacts of grazing.
Method
Six sites underwent a series of rainfall simulations to determine infiltration and runoff properties. Key surface soil features were recorded and the soil cores were taken to determine the infiltration, moisture and compaction.
Key Findings
- In general an increase in infiltration rate and a decrease in sediment concentration with an increase in ground cover was noted;
- Greatest variations in infiltration were noted for covers <25% ground cover, while the greatest variation in sediment loss was noted for covers >75%; and
- Total N and P losses did not correlate well with cover. However, concentrations of N and P were primarily influenced by sediment concentrations.
Location
The selected sites are located within the Burdekin River Catchment west of Townsville.
Site 2- Pinnacle Transect
Longitude and Latitude
S19o32'42.71''
E146o19'40.66''
Related Studies
The same investigation was carried out at:
- Meadowvale;
- High Range;
- Simpson's Dam; and
- Thangala.
Keywords
Infiltration, Grazing, Soil Surface Conditions, Savannah