The programme develops and implements climate smart strategies to address soil productivity and food security issues. It also manages soil degradation, rehabilitation and pollution challenges.
Objectives
Research Focus
2. Soil carbon sequestration.
3. Soil water relationship. management.
4. Land Reclamation.
5. Soil pollution prevention and management .
6. Erosion control on croplands and in human settlement.
Achievements of the Programme
Soil and water conservation technologies e.g. sediment control structures and filters generated with community participation.An added benefit derived is improved water quality in the affected communities. E.g. Nyamebekyere community in the Sefwi – Wiawso District.
Supported Resolute Amansie Gold Ltd in revegetation of degraded mine sites
Monitoring of soil regeneration under replanted forest of BLG and Goldfields GH LTD.
Settlement erosion control technologies e.g. seepage pits, diversion channels.
Communities in Ashanti, Brong Ahafo and Western Regions have benefited from these technologies.
Assessment of heavy metal and cyanide pollution around mining communities (Bogoso/Prestea, AngloGold Ash., Resolute Amansie.
The threat of ironpan (petroplinthite) development in soils identified, publicized and management recommendations made for sustainable soil management.
Assessment of impact o f climate change on food production/security and livelihood.
Biochar studies in soil carbon sequestration and soil productivity improvement.
Suitability assessment carried out on forest soils for rehabilitation of degraded forest reserves. The reserves covered were:
- Asubima Forest Reserve.
- Mankrang Forest Reserve.
- Afrensu – Brohuma Forest Reserve.
- Work done for FORM Ecology Consultants.