Kajian Karakteristik dan Sifat Tanah Akibat Alih Fungsi Lahan di Padang Bolak Kabupaten Padang Lawas Utara

Abstract

Research that examines the characteristics and properties of soil due to land conversion in Padang Bolak, North Padang Lawas Regency (from grassland vegetation to rubber and oil palm plantations). This study uses a survey method, representative profiles are made from grassland areas, rubber plantation areas, and oil palm plantation areas. Field observations were made on each representative profile to determine the morphology and characteristics of the soil. Soil samples were taken from each horizon or soil layer. The parameters observed were soil morphology parameters (soil structure, soil texture, soil color, soil depth, consistency, layer boundaries, topographic boundaries, horizon depth, roots, and effective depth) and soil chemical parameters (clay CEC, bulk density, pH H2O, C-Organic, and base saturation). The results of this study indicate that land conversion from grassland to rubber and oil palm plantations changes the topsoil, while the three soil profiles still have the same soil classification. Land conversion can change the carbon content of the soil which results in changes in soil color. Land conversion also causes carbon loss of 75.44% (rubber) and 18.75% (oil palm). Land conversion from grassland to oil palm plantation is better for maintaining soil carbon levels.