Competition essay writing
Hot Topic For Medical Research Paper
Monday, August 24, 2020
Clinical laboratory science Scholarship Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words
Clinical research facility science - Scholarship Essay Example Kingââ¬â¢sââ¬â¢ mission of planning graduates mentally, ethically and profoundly for a wonderful future life especially interests me. My enthusiasm for the field of Clinical Laboratory Science began route back in my youth and is essentially enlivened by the family foundation with guardians in the clinical field. As a little youngster I started appreciating the work done by my folks of helping patients and guaranteeing they have a quality existence. This made me to buckle down in school so to accomplish grades that would empower get a school chance to assist my examinations in the region. The across the country lack of experts in the territory of Clinical Laboratory Science has likewise contributed fundamentally as I feel by graduating in the field I will have the option to emphatically affect by aiding during the time spent sparing lives which will give me incredible fulfillment. I in this way need to be a piece of the arrangement and not the difficult along these lines accepts as an expert CLS will be better positioned to serve and decidedly impact humankind. I unequivocally have faith in the intensity of information in changing society and henceforth take part effectively in extracurricular exercises, for example, club clubs, scholastic gatherings and games in which I accept lies open door for data trade. I likewise take part with the expectation of developing comprehensively and keeping up close to home wellbeing both truly, intellectually and mentally which I accept is imperative to my life particularly as an understudy. I will consequently use every accessible office on the grounds to advance my alumni encounter and rise as a mindful individual in the
Saturday, August 22, 2020
Shopping Mode Choice Essay Example for Free
Shopping Mode Choice Essay This investigation means to investigate how buyers assess these time qualities; I. e. the estimation of time, when they are confronting a shopping mode decision between physical store shopping and e-shopping. For this reason, it directs an examination to gain information on respondentsââ¬â¢ expressed inclination decisions between physical book shop shopping and online book shop shopping. It is at last discovered that the estimation of conveyance time for a bought book from an online book shop to a shopper is around $0. 53 every day, which implies an online book shop should bring down a bookââ¬â¢s cost by cost by $0.. 53 to draw in a physical book shop customer if the conveyance is deferred for one day. It is additionally discovered that as far as fiscal qualities, staying away from a shopping trip creates undeniably a bigger number of advantages than bearing sitting tight for the conveyance of books for an online buy. Watchwords * E-shopping; * Shopping mode decision; * Stated inclination analyze; * Value of movement time; * Value of item conveyance time 1. Presentation In the previous decade, the manner in which individuals shop has drastically changed. Other than shopping at physical stores, with the guide of data and correspondence advances (ICT), purchasers can shop by means of the Internet. This new sort of shopping mode, coming in various names like e-shopping, web based shopping, organize shopping, Internet shopping, or Web-based shopping, highlighting in liberating purchasers from having to actually visit physical stores, is foreseen to extraordinarily change peopleââ¬â¢s regular daily existences. Such a high expectation towards e-shopping has incited innumerable investigations on this subject. The greater part of the current writing, in any case, has concentrated on the favorable circumstances and impediments of Internet promoting. Such a mental point of view has been generally received in the showcasing and data the board zones specifically. Similarly, almost no of the current writing has worried about how purchasers settle on the decision between e-shopping versus store shopping ( [Lee and Tan, 2003]à andà [Farag et al. 2007]). One reason for this might be credited to the complex idea of the shopping action. It has been generally perceived that shopping action is directed not just for the objective of products procurement. The intrigue of customary store shopping is diverse, including social connection, amusement, development, and excursion tying (Mokhtarian, 2004). A significant part of the intrigue can't be handily uprooted by e-shopping, making customary store shopping still very serious over e-shopping. In a reasonable examination of the transportation effects of B2C internet business, Mokhtarian (2004) looked into the similar points of interest of store shopping and e-shopping, and presume that neither kind consistently ruled the other. Due to such a many-sided nature of shopping conduct and the general dominances of e-shopping versus store shopping, demonstrating the connections between these two shopping modes has been not a simple errand. The referable writing on this issue, from Koppelman et al. 1991) who displayed consumersââ¬â¢ decisions between store shopping, list shopping and online shopping, Lee and Tan (2003) who built up a financial model of customer decision between on-line and in-store shopping, to Farag et al. (2007), who applied the basic condition demonstrating (SEM) strategy to show the connections between e-shopping and store shopping, is considerably restricted. This inspires this investigation to address the decision conduct between e-shopping versus store shopping instead of e-shopping alone. Another perceptible point at issue is the means by which ICT prompts changes in the allotment of individualsââ¬â¢ time and cash assets. It is by and large accepted that the progressing headway of ICT is prompting a rearrangement of exercises in existence (Lenz and Nobis, 2007). The ââ¬Ëfragmentationââ¬â¢ idea presented by Helen Couclelis implies the interference of one action by another and the ensuing continuation of the previous empowered by the utilization of ICT (Lenz and Nobis, 2007). This at that point prompts expanded vehicle request, as exercises are not, at this point critically bound to specific occasions as well as specific spots (Lenz and Nobis, 2007). For example, e-shopping could lift the existence limitations of the shopping procedure, driving eventually to a discontinuity of the shopping movement in reality ( [Couclelis, 2004]à andà [Farag et al. , 2007]). Such a ââ¬Ëfragmentationââ¬â¢ of exercises should wind up driving people to reallocate their time and cash assets, and inevitably change the manner in which they esteem time. This persuades this examination to address the job time and cost properties play in consumersââ¬â¢ shopping mode decision conduct. For shopping exercises, two parts of time might merit investigating further. To begin with, e-shopping liberates buyers from going face to face to the shopping place, and therefore spares them travel time. Second, e-shopping expects buyers to hang tight for the item conveyance after online buys, and accordingly creates sitting tight time for conveyance (or item conveyance time).
Monday, July 20, 2020
Our Favorite Comics of 2015 (So Far)
Our Favorite Comics of 2015 (So Far) Half the year has passed, so our Panelteers have reflected on the best comics published so far this year. Jem the Holograms by Kelly Thompson and Sophie Campbell (Jon Erik Christianson)* Before this year, I had never encountered anything Jem. My interest in this series came solely from my knowledge of the creative teamâ"Iâve been a fan of Kelly Thompsonâs since I started reading comics, and Sophie Campbellâs work speaks for itself. Holy shimmering sequins am I enamored with this series. I want Campbell to re-design everything: DC and Marvel superheroes, my wardrobe, the world. The characters in comic boast different heights, body sizes, facial features, hair colors, and stature. Expressions are varied and often hilariously fun. The series has a strict #NoHomo policyâ"if âhomoâ means âhomogeneity.â On the flipside (#YesHomo), the series is bursting with prominent queer characters who arenât sabotaged by dated tropes. Presumably with the help of goat sacrifice, Thompson manages to tell a character-centric story with a cast of eleven characters. Even characters lacking in panel time make up for it with efficient, smart dialogue. I liken this series to Cartoon Networkâs Steven Universe. Itâs a character-focused story set in a diverse, realistic world drenched in visual spectacle and a rad color palette. And it shouldnât be missed. SuperMutant Magic Academy by Jillian Tamaki (Hilary Lawlor) Jillian Tamakiâs Supermutant Magic Academy is so brilliant, itâs a little bit scary. When you first start reading, you think the comics arenât connected, that theyâre just about random kids at this school for⦠kids with random powers? But as the book goes on, you see the threads of stories between friends, interlocking timelines, jokes made in the beginning of the book that come up again later and then, epiphany: this isnât a random selection, itâs an ongoing sitcom/drama where every page is a different episode. Everything comes together in the end so subtly, you have to commend Tamakiâs deft hand. Plus, itâs hilarious and her art is fantastic. The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl by Ryan North, Erica Henderson, Rico Renzi, Clayton Cowles, Maris Wicks (Katie Schenkel)* 2015 has been an amazing year for new comic series, but this one? This one is the one that consistently makes me happier every time I can get my hands on a new issue. The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl is absolutely hilarious, has a focus on female characters, and allows the title character (who is kind of known for being majorly overpowered) to solve her problems through ways other than just punching. She still does a good amount of punching, but sheâs also empathetic to her foes and often recognizes when the situation can be defused by simply suggesting an alternative course of action. I canât forget about the art Erica Henderson brings a cartoony, fun look to the story and her version of our squirrely heroine is adorable. The fact that Squirrel Girl (alias Doreen Green) is a STEM student and the rest of her friends are people of color who are also STEM students is also pretty fantastic. The art and writing is both appropriate for kids while being clever and downright funny as heck. I canât recommend this all-ages book enough. Theyre Not Like Us #3 by Eric Stephenson, Simon Gane, Jordie Bellaire Fonografiks (Brian McNamara)* What if the only way you could find your place in the world, the only way to feel normal, to become part of a better life where you could be yourself, you had to kill your parents? Thatâs the choice placed in front of Syd, a young woman who is just learning to deal with innate telepathic powers. After years of no one believing she could read minds and being tortured by psychic chaffe, she chooses to take her life. But a charismatic stranger with telepathic powers of his own attempts to save her and in doing so brings her to a whole new world; a place full of others with unique powers, a place where outsiders could be free. Theyâre Not Like Us is a sort of postmodern X-Men; combining issues of acceptance, coming out and self-awareness with the world super powers and discrimination. It presents a realist view of what those powers mean, what moving beyond your old life could be like, as well as what the cost of cutting all ties really is. Simon Ganeâs art stands out, presenting fl eshed out rooms, distinct characters and is expertly accompanied by a moody yet vivid color palette from Jordie Bellaire. A novel feature of the single issues is that the cover features the first panel of the story, bringing the reader right into that world. Theyâre Not Like Us is at once a celebration and takedown of San Francisco hipsterism, placing our disaffected youth in a world that fears and hates them as much as they fear and hate it. Nimona by Noelle Stevenson (Melody Schreiber) The more I think about it, the more I like this book. The characters are complex and compelling, and they challenge our ideas about heroes and villains. And itâs hilarious. I identified really deeply with Nimona, who is extremely self-confident and afraid of who she really is at the same time. Itâs the kind of book you want to wave around in public places and shout âREAD THIS NOW!â Bitch Planet #3 Kelly Sue DeConnick, Robert Wilson IV, and Valentine De Landro (Jenn Northington)* Bitch Planet is everything I want out of a comics reading experience and then some. Iâve always been hungry for politically inspired science fiction (thanks to early exposure to Ursula Le Guin) and Bitch Planet more than delivers on that front. By taking inspiration from exploitation films and the current battles for womenâs rights and then throwing them into the future and into outer space, Kelly Sue DeConnick and Valentine de Landro have created a place to explore what these things did mean, do mean, and could mean for us. Theyâve created a roster of characters that is truly diverse body type and shape, race and culture, orientation, opinions, abilities. The stakes are high, the action is intense, and the story takes place on a PRISON PLANET IN SPACE. And then there are the essays in the back of each issue, exploring issues of intersectional feminism I am here for your think-pieces, ladies and ladytypes. Thereâs a reason I have a non-compliant tattoo, and that reason is that Bitch Planet is my favorite comic of 2015 so far. Darth Vader by Kieron Gillen, Salvador Larroca, and Edgar Delgado (Michael Chasin)* Kieron Gillenâs been on fire lately, but even going into his newest book with high expectations there was something about this exploration of one of the biggest bads in history that took me by surprise. As a comic itâs great, and Larocca and Delgado do a thrilling job bringing the long ago, far, far away galaxy to life in a familiar, striking way, with every character perfectly designed and quiet moments that hit just as hard as the free-flowing action. For the Star Wars junkie, this is a great ride, and if it only succeeded on that level it would be worth checking out. But it goes further than that. This book is full-fledged rehab for Darth Vader, a character whose gravitas and iconography have been cheapened for decades. Well, no more. Once again the Dark Lord of the Sith is menacing, compelling, visually exciting, and outright cool in ways I forgot he could be, and thatâs just for starters. Beyond simply bringing Vader back to his roots, this comic also integrates some of th e less cringe-inducing material from the prequel trilogy through intelligent and emotionally true storytelling. For the first time it really does feel like Hayden Christensens Anakin might have grown into the man behind that legendary mask, and the fact that this creative team has pulled off that connection without lessening Vader in any way is astounding. Combine that with a great supporting cast (Triple Zero, the C-3PO of torture, is inspired) and a narrative that feels important in the context of the franchise, and were left with the best thing so far to come out of post-Disney Star Wars. And with the latter half of the year sure to be dominated by anticipation for the new movie, Darth Vaderâ"its first arc just completedâ"is the perfect way to remind yourself why we cared about this world and these stories in the first place. Giant Days by John Allison and Lissa Treiman (Marcy)* I hadnât heard of Giant Days until it was recommended to me by a friend it quickly became my current favourite comic of the year. It has a simple premise, three young women are at university, and this is the story of how they interact together and with other students. Itâs a story of that awkward in-between time when you think youâre no longer a child and believe yourself to be an adult attending university; but looking back you were really just a big kid learning how to adult. The art is really cute, the story is sharp with great conversations between the protagonists. Issue #1 is a masterclass in how to introduce characters that should be studied by everyone who wants to be or is involved in creating comics. Giant Days is a short six issue series and itâs a classic. Unflattening by Nick Sousanis (Hattie Kennedy) Unflattening is the published version of Sousanisâ PhD dissertation which happens to be a comic book. It is a fascinating exploration of comics and their potential for communicating stories and information. Sousanis explores how we read and just why comics might be the perfect way in which to experience all new ways of seeing, free of the limitations of purely visual or verbal forms of representation. If I am making it sound really dry, I really must emphasise that it isnât, indeed for someone who reads a lot of comics and writes about them this has been one of the most exciting things I have read in ages. If youâre even the smallest bit interested in how comics work and the potentials of the form then this is essential reading. References to other texts abound and Sousanis uses the page creatively to make this an intriguine and immersive reading experience. Alex + Ada, Volume 2 by Jonathan Luna and Sarah Vaughn (Chris Arnone) Volume 2 was published in March, but I canât recommend this entire story enough. I used the first two trades to catch up to this story and was in tears several times right up to the end (the series ends with issue #15). Alex + Ada is a beautiful story of love and what it means to be human. Itâs a simple story and all the better for its simplicity. I will absolutely be purchasing a nice, collected hardcover when it becomes available. Alex + Ada has a purposeful pace, so itâs best read all at once anyway. Ms. Marvel #16 by G. Willow Wilson and Adrian Alphona (Ali Colluccio) Iâm going to be real with you guys because Panels is a safe, non-judgy place. I cry every time I read an issue of Ms. Marvel. I laugh too. Thereâs a lot of gasping and cheering. Iâve been know to hug an issue or two after reading. I feel bad for the people on the subway or PATH with me when I read this comic because itâs gotta be awkward to see some random stranger go through a full range of emotions in a packed rush hour train. Weâre 16 issues into Ms. Marvel and this still happens to me every month. Miami Vice Remix by Joe Casey and Jim Mahfood (Eric Margolis)* So, my favorite comic of 2015 at this point has been Miami Vice: Remix. Really? Yeah, really! But, in an ironic way, right? Nope, I genuinely adored this comic. Back in April, Issue #1 was my pick of the month. This book caught me off guard, in the best possible way. Like I said back then, Iâm not a fan of licensed comics nor am I a fan of Miami Vice in general, but this book was AMAZING. The storyline was a completely ridiculous buddy-cop book with bath salt zombies, pet gators and insane over-the-top violence. Caseyâs script was superb and Mahfoodâs art was absolutely gorgeous (Really looking forward to seeing Mahfood on that upcoming issue of Howard the Duck now). Iâm super sad that this book was only a 5 issue miniseries, but Iâm hoping for a follow up. Buy this thing and tell everyone you know about it, because we need more! Convergence: Superman #1 Dan Jurgens, Lee Weeks, Brad Anderson (Mart Gray) Maybe nostalgia isnt what it used to be, but when youre in the mood, its just fantastic. And that was my reaction to the first issue of a two-part DC Convergence spin-off that gave us a pre-New 52 Superman and Lois Lane. For a few fabulous minutes I could forget the mess of a non-relationship theyve had over the last few years and wallow in the love between my two old friends. Lois and Clark, partners in life and partners in crimefighting, one more time. That theyre in an intriguing story showcasing the best aspects of their characters doesnt hurt. Writer Dan Jurgens, tasked with having them encounter the World of Flashpoint, reminds us of the heart contained within this classic pairing. Theyve been trapped in an impenetrable dome, God knows where, with no idea what the future will bring once the child theyre expecting is born; Superman has no powers; Lois has no outlet for the reports she cant stop writing but do they lose heart? Nope, their optimism is intact, their spirits strong er than ever. Individually, theyre amazing. Together, Clark and Lois are a force of nature. And Lee Weeks, an artist not associated with the Man of Steels world, draws them beautifully. The gentle strength of Superman, the indomitable presence of Lois its all there, along with the twisted Flashpoint Captain Marvel, Batman and co, looking scary as hell. In current canon, Superman and Lois are lost to one another, but this issue reminded me that the classic versions are out there, ready to be returned to us if we just want it enough. Gotham Academy, Vol. 1 Becky Cloonan, Brenden Fletcher, and Karl Kerschl (Swapna) Im a sucker for gothic mysteries. You say gothic mystery and I say WHERE GIVE IT TO ME NOWWW. So when I first picked up Gotham Academy, a YA comic with a gothic feel, I was immediately hooked. Karl Kerschls art is absolutely gorgeous, and gives the comic a moody tone. Its up to the characters to bring the fun into the comic, and they do so in an incredible way. It doesnt matter if you read other DC comics, or if you generally shy away from superheroes in your comicsthis is one you should give a try. I love the pure joy that is this comic, and am waiting for the next issue with breathless anticipation. *denotes a link to a trade that hasnt yet been released, though the first issue was released in Jan-June 2015
Thursday, May 21, 2020
Michelle Alexander Mass Incarceration - 1601 Words
Michelle Alexander who was born in 1968 is an associate professor of law at Ohio State University also a civil rights advocate and a writer. She is a highly acclaimed civil rights lawyer, advocate, and legal scholar. In recent years, she has taught at a number of universities, including Stanford Law School, where she was an associate professor of law and directed the Civil Rights Clinics. Alexander published the book The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. In it, she argues that systemic racial discrimination in the United States has resumed following the Civil Rights Movements gains; the resumption is embedded in the US War on Drugs and other governmental policies and is having devastating social consequences.â⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Alexander asserts that this mass incarceration is not a response to an actual surge in violent crime among the African-American community, but a calculated effort to offset the gains made by the civil rights movementâ⠬âpenalizing millions of African Americans behind bars, on probation or parole (mostly for non-violent offenses), and millions more with criminal records. Professor Alexander singles out the Nixon and Reagan administrations for particular criticism, for aligning the criminal justice system against the African-American community. ââ¬Å"Itââ¬â¢s easy to be completely unaware that this vast new system of racial and social control has emerged,â⬠she says. ââ¬Å"Unlike in Jim Crow days, there were no ââ¬Ëwhites onlyââ¬â¢ signs. This system is out of sight, out of mind.â⬠In addition, according to Michelle Alexander, Mass incarceration is a system that locks people not only behind actual bars in actual prisons, but also behind virtual bars and virtual walls ââ¬â walls that are invisible to the naked eye but function nearly as effectively as Jim Crow laws once did at locking people of color into a permanent second-class citizenship. The term mass incarceration re fers not only to the criminal justice system but also to the larger web of laws, rules, policies, and customs that control those labeled criminals both in and out of prison. Once released, former prisoners enter a hidden underworld of legalized discrimination and permanent socialShow MoreRelatedThe Mass Incarceration Of Black Men By Michelle Alexander971 Words à |à 4 PagesAlexanderââ¬â¢s book a contribution to nonviolent social change? Through the use of literature to inspire social change, Michelle Alexander is able to bring attention to an extremely important social issue that is very prevalent throughout our country. The issue that Alexander is writing about is the mass incarceration of black males in the United States. She describes this increase of mass incarceration in depth, and relates this modern form of social control back to an old practice of the Jim Crow laws and separateRead More The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, by Michelle Alexander1182 Words à |à 5 PagesThe New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness is a book by Michelle Alexander, a civil rights litigator and legal scholar. The book discusses race-related issues specific to African-American males and mass incarceration in the United States. Michelle Alexander (2010) argues that despite the old Jim Crow is death, does not necessarily means the end of racial caste (p.21). In her book ââ¬Å"Th e New Jim Crowâ⬠, Alexander describes a set of practices and social discourses that serve toRead MoreThe New Jim Crow : Mass Incarceration During The Age Of Colorblindness By Michelle Alexander1665 Words à |à 7 PagesIn the new proactive book, The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, Michelle Alexander dives into the not so complicated racial issues that plague this country that we tend to ignore. In all of history, African Americans have had to constantly fight for their freedoms and the right to be considered a human being in this society. Itââ¬â¢s very troubling looking back and seeing where we have failed people in this country. At the turn of the century, when people began to thinkRead MoreThe New Jim Crow : Mass Incarceration During The Age Of Colorblindness By Michelle Alexander3956 Words à |à 16 Pageswork to be done today. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness, by Michelle Alexander, is a book about the di scrimination of African Americans in today s society. One of Alexander s main points is the War on Drugs and how young African American males are targeted and arrested due to racial profiling. Racial profiling, discrimination, and segregation is not as popular as it used to be during the Civil War, however, Michelle Alexander digs deeper, revealing the truth aboutRead MoreThe New Jim Crow : Mass Incarceration During The Age Of Colorblindness By Michelle Alexander1854 Words à |à 8 PagesI read The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander published in 2012. The non-fiction book is 331 pages and features a forward by esteemed civil rights activist Dr. Cornel West. Alexander is civil rights lawyer who decided to write this book after dealing with young black felons restricted by the prison system. The book was a fascinating glimpse into the biases of the criminal justice system. The book is split into six riveting chapters. The initial chapterRead MoreThe New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander657 Words à |à 3 Pages The book ââ¬Å"The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindnessâ⬠(ââ¬Å"The New Jim Crowâ⬠) hits on many significant points concerning the criminal justice system and the systemically racial elements that have been perpetuated through various laws. As argued in the book, the ââ¬Å"War on Drugsâ⬠has been used to perpetuate racial discrimination against African Americans since the 1980s and the Reagan Administration. My personal reflection on the book comes from a legal perspective. Within theRead MoreThe New Jim Crow By Michelle Alexander1313 Words à |à 6 Pages The New Jim Crow Michelle Alexanderââ¬â¢s the new Jim Crow Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness examine the Jim Crow practices post slavery and the mass incarceration of African-American. The creation of Jim Crows laws where used as a tool to promote segregation among the minority and white American. Michelle Alexanderââ¬â¢s the new Jim Crow Mass takes a look at Jim Crow laws and policies were put into place to block the social progression African-American from the post-slavery to the civilRead MoreThe New Jim Crow By Michelle Alexander1316 Words à |à 6 Pages The New Jim Crow Michelle Alexanderââ¬â¢s the new Jim Crow Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness examine the Jim Crow practices post slavery and the mass incarceration of African-American. The creation of Jim Crows laws were used as a tool to promote segregation among the minority and white American. Michelle Alexanderââ¬â¢s the new Jim Crow Mass takes a look at Jim Crow laws and policies were put into place to block the social progression African-American from the post-slavery to theRead MoreMichelle Alexander s The New Jim Crow1495 Words à |à 6 Pages Baker, Anderson, and Dorn (1992) talk ââ¬Å"A Critical Thinking Approachâ⬠giving the readers six guidelines to follow when critically assessing any literary work, all of which can apply to Michelle Alexanderââ¬â¢s The New Jim Crow. The first guideline is about how accessible is her work. Throughout the book, Alexander made her work as clear and concise as she possibly could by explaining certain points over again in a d ifferent chapter to make sure that the audience understands what she is trying to sayRead MoreResponse Paper to Michelle Alexanders The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness743 Words à |à 3 PagesThe New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness was written by Michelle Alexander to expose the truth of racial injustice in the system of mass incarceration through the comparison of the racial control during the Jim Crow Era. She reveals how race plays an important role in the American Justice System. Alexander argues about the racial bias, particularly towards African-Americans, immanent in the war on drugs as a result of their lack of political power and how the Supreme Court
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
The Cold War And The Soviet War - 1199 Words
The Cold War was a succession of savage battles fought between the USA and the USSR during the end of World War II. These two prevailing countries never faced each other directly, therefore it was a war fought by proxy. Both the USA and the USSR had conflict between their two ideologies and ways of life, the USA assumed capitalism and democracy was the optimal way of living, while the USSR concluded communism was the more suitable choice. Each country believed their system or ideology was superior to the other. During the Second World War, the two countries faced a common enemy, Hitler. Therefore, the two countries had to collaborate to defeat the enemy and had to set their differences aside, however, as soon as this war finished, theâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Berlin itself was located in the middle of East Germany, although it belonged to the USA. Britain and the USA claimed Stalinââ¬â¢s introduction of new currency to Bizonia - the joined zones of the USA and Britain in West Germany- and Eastern Germany was an attempt to ââ¬Å"force the USA out of Berlin, and the Blockade was Russian empire-building in eastern Europeâ⬠(Clare, 2014). Since Berlin was entirely surrounded by the Russian zone, the Russians stopped all road and rail traffic into Berlin. The Americans were furious and debated fighting their way into Berlin, instead the Americans decided to give resources by air, (President Truman, 1949) stated the act was a move to test their ability and test their will to resist. For 11 months, the Blockade lasted. The Americans directed a total of ââ¬Å"1.5 million tons of supplies for the people of Berlin, which included; food, medical supplies, and other necessities. There was a total of 275 000 flights who landed to the peopleââ¬â¢s aid.â⬠(Clare, 2014). Finally, in May of 1949, Stalin re-opened the boarders. The Korean War was also a devastating even of the Cold War. This bloody war began in June of 1950 where the North Korean armed forces ââ¬â who were communists - invaded South Korea ââ¬â who were capitalists. The United Nations and The United States joined forces with
The Definition of Family in the Constitution Free Essays
Article 41 of the Constitution recognises the Family ââ¬Å"as the natural primary and fundamental unit group of Societyâ⬠, and as a ââ¬Å"moral institution possessing certain inalienable and imprescriptible rightsâ⬠which are ââ¬Å"antecedent and superior to all positive lawâ⬠. The State guarantees to protect the Family in its constitution and authority ââ¬Å"as the necessary basis of social order and as indispensable to the welfare of the Nation and the Stateâ⬠[1]. Article 41 of Bunreacht na hEireann contains the main provisions relating to the family. We will write a custom essay sample on The Definition of Family in the Constitution or any similar topic only for you Order Now It is generally considered that Articles 41 and 42 were heavily influenced by Roman Catholic teaching. They were clearly drafted with one family in mind, namely the family based on marriage. â⬠[2]. Since 1937 when the constitution was drafted there has been major social changes such as, changing attitudes to sexual behaviour, contraceptive use, social acceptance of pre marital relations, cohabitation and single parenthood, social acceptance of divorce, just to name a few. These social changes which would not have readily existed in 1937 have not been adapted to in the Constitution in Article 41/42 concerning the â⬠familyâ⬠. Simply put the definition of family in the constitution is old fashioned. I am of the opinion that an amendment to ââ¬Å"The Familyâ⬠- namely Article 41 is required. I base my argument on 3 main reasons 1) More types of family should be recognised, not just that of a marital family. 2) The definition of family should be changed to include expressed rights of a child incorporated into Article 41 and the rights of a child not just fall under that of â⬠the familyâ⬠3) The wording of the rights of the family to change to allow for more state intervention. Though the ââ¬Å"familyâ⬠is not defined in the constitution the Supreme Court held that the family is based on marriage ââ¬â State(Nicolaou) v An Bord Uchtala[3] : Walsh J ââ¬â ââ¬Å"the family referred to on [Article 41. 3. 1] is the family which founded on the institution of marriage, on which the family is founded on the institution of marriage and, in the context of the Article, marriage means valid marriage under the laws for the time being in force in the stateâ⬠. Article 41. 3. [4] states ââ¬Å"The State pledges itself to guard with special care the institution of marriage, on which the family is founded, and to protect against attackâ⬠. From this definition it appears that a non-marital family would not be protected by the State against attack. In my opinion this provision should be amended to conform to the social change that I have previously mentioned as a family in current times is no longer just a marital family. ââ¬Å" The law must, as far p ossible mirror contemporary civilization and as that changes so must the law. If the law becomes too rigid and inflexible, then there is always the danger that it will conflict with the needs of the people, with all the unfortunate consequences to which conflict may ariseâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ¦Ã¢â¬ ¦.. during the dynamic periods of History â⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ¦.. for it becomes essential for the legal system to adjust itself to the novel conditions of social lifeâ⬠[5] As a general rule most rights and obligations flowing from family law legislation are confined to families based on marriage. There are few contexts where non marital relationships are recognised such as domestic violence[6] and wrongful death[7]. The European Court of Human Rights have taken broader approach then Ireland and has been deemed to protect inter alia the family life of non-marital parents and their children. ââ¬Å"It is likely that the failure to recognise the rights, and indeed the duties, of the members of non-marital families may constitute a breach of Art. 8 of the European Convention of Human rights, which requires that the State respect the family life of all personsâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ ¦. iven that the convention is now part of domestic law it is only a matter of time before Irish Law is found to be in breachâ⬠[8] The European Court of Human Rights(ECHR) broader approach to the definition of a â⬠familyâ⬠can be seen in Mouta v Portugal[9]. In this case the ECHR recognised a homosexual man and his child as a family which wouldnââ¬â¢t be recognised under the Irish Constitution. Da Silva was previously married and had a daughter in this relationship and divorced 3 years later. .The applicant (Da Silva) sought an order giving him parental responsibility for the child. The Lisbon Family Affairs Court awarded Da Silva parental responsibility. His ex-wife appealed against the Family Affairs Courtââ¬â¢s judgment to the Lisbon Court of Appeal, which reversed the lower courtââ¬â¢s judgment and awarding parental responsibility to the ex-wife, with contact to the applicant. It was held by the ECHR that the judgment of the Court of Appeal, in so far as it set aside the judgment of the lower court, constituted an interference with the fatherââ¬â¢s right to respect for family life and attracted the application of Art 8 of the Convention. Were this case to appear in an Irish Court De Souza would not have been awarded custody due to the the rigidness of the courts to move from strictly interpreting â⬠familyâ⬠in the constitution . Secondly I will explore how 1)Article 41 acts as a shield against state intervention against matters concerning â⬠the familyâ⬠and also 2)why I think â⬠the childâ⬠should be given expressed rights in the constitution contained in the definition of family. In my opinion I think that Article 41 acts as a shield against state intervention. I think ââ¬Å"a shieldâ⬠is an effective way of describing the Article as a shield protects against attack but does not block all danger/damage, just like Article 41protects the â⬠familyâ⬠but does not provide complete immunity. This article emphasises the rights of the family as a whole while not exploring individual rights such as the rights of the child. I think the words â⬠inalienable and imprescriptibleâ⬠/rights superior to positive lawâ⬠are too strong as it gives the State limited opportunity to intervene with matters concerning â⬠the familyâ⬠. When can the state intervene?. Murphy J gave his view on this question ââ¬Å"where conduct of parents are such to constitute a virtual abdication of their responsibility or alternatively, the disastrous consequences of a particular parental decision are so immediate and inevitable as to demand intervention and perhaps call into question either the basic competence or devotion of the parentsâ⬠A State intervention must be proportionate -breach of Article 41 must have justifiable circumstances. As I previously mentioned Article 41 does not provide complete protection. This can be seen in People v T[10] where a father had been convicted of sexual offenses against his daughter. Casey made the point that while Article 41 ââ¬Å"established that the family as a unit had itââ¬â¢s own special rights, other provisions make it clear that each member of that unit had his/her own constitutionally-guaranteed personal rightsâ⬠¦.. It follows from this that the common law rule can have no application in cases where one member of a family is alleged to have committed an offense against anotherâ⬠[11]. I have already given my opinion that i think the words ââ¬Ëinalienable and imprescriptibleâ⬠and â⬠above positive lawâ⬠are too strong and limit the courts powers in intervening. One case where I think this is prevalent is is N v Health Service Executives[12] aka â⬠the baby Ann caseâ⬠. At the time of Aââ¬â¢s birth in July 2004 the applicants were unmarried and they decided to place A for adoption. The applicants married in Northern Ireland in January 2006, strengthening their legal position as they now formed a family under the constitution. The High Court held that the child was in the lawful custody of Mr and Mrs D(the Adoptive parents) and that, accordingly, a conditional order for the inquiry under art 40 had to be discharged. The decision of the High Court was based on his conclusion that the applicants had failed in their duty towards their daughter and abandoned her and that there were compelling reasons why the child should not be returned to their custody. The decision was overturned by the Supreme Court. I feel that the decision by the Supreme Court was inappropriate, it did not take into account the welfare of the child, Article 41 restricted the courts ability to award custody of the child to the adoptive parents, as the maternal parents and Baby Ann has formed a â⬠familyâ⬠under the constitution. If the State had more powers to intervene and supersede Article 41 then the custody would probably have been given to the adoptive parents (which would have been the right decision from my point of view). John Walters gave his view on the Supreme Courts decision ââ¬Å"its hands tied by outmoded provisions of the Constitution, was prevented from doing the ââ¬Å"decentâ⬠thing: leaving baby Ann with her prospective adoptive parentsâ⬠[13]. Judge Catherine McGuiness, closing remarks in the case were interesting. She voiced criticism regarding the rights of the child in the constitution and also how she was reluctant to come to the decision to support the maternal parents claims. ââ¬Å" It would be disingenuous not to admit that I am one of the ââ¬Ëquartersââ¬â¢ who have voiced criticism of the position of the child in the Constitution. I did so publicly in the report on the Kilkenny Incest Inquiry in 1993. The present case must, however, be decided under the Constitution and the law as it now stands. With the reluctance and some regret I would allow this appeal. â⬠[14]. I think that the argument to give the child expressed rights under the constitution is intertwined with giving the State more scope on intervening in family cases. As it stands childrenââ¬â¢s rights are thought as secondary to the parents and this can be see in Crowley. [15] I think that there should be a change from the paternalistic approach, whereby the adults know best. Were there to be an express provision outlining the right of the child there would gave been an alternative decision in the PKU test case[16]. The court acknowledged the right of the parents to refuse a both standard and important test for a new born child while ignoring the best interests of the child. The Council of Europe Recommendation 1289 (1996) point 8(i) on a European Strategy for children advised that there should be guarantees that childrenââ¬â¢s rights should be explicitly incorporated into constitutional text. [17] To summarise I think Article 41 concerning the definition of family should be changed. It is outdated basing a family on marriage as in current times there are more then just marriage based families, there are a variety of situations which the normal person would regard as a ââ¬Ëfamilyââ¬â¢. The Constitutional Review Group stated that there is a ââ¬Å"multiplicity of differing units which may be capable of being considered familyâ⬠. [18] I think there should be an exhaustive list including the instances above where a member of the public would regard the situation as being a family. Alternatively you could leave the definition of family open and state that ââ¬Å"familyâ⬠is not confined to that of just a family based on marriage. This would leave the judiciary to determine a family on a case by case basis which is similar to the ECHR approach. This would result in a large amount of uncertainty. I would favor the first option even though it would arise itââ¬â¢s own problems such as would being forced to become a legal family under the constitution infringe on personal rights? And also how would you determine the length of time a family is together to qualify as co-habitant?. Either way I think the implied definition of family needs to be changed. To highlight the constant increase of different types of families and the need for reform, I have taken statistics from the last 3 censusââ¬â¢ of the number of units formed by cohabiting couples (which are one â⬠family I think should be recognised) and formed a table, this furthermore indicates the need to incorporate the change in society into the constitution. How to cite The Definition of Family in the Constitution, Essay examples
Sunday, April 26, 2020
Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya Essay Example
Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya Essay KENYATTA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY STUDY ON INFILTRATION AND SOIL TEXTURE UNDER BANANA AND MAIZE LAND USE SYSTEMS IN GATUNDU CATCHMENT, KIAMBU COUNTY,KENYA KAKAIRE JOEL I56EA/20023/2012 ICEDUNA MARION I56EA/20021/2012 MWM714: FIELD MAPPING AND LABORATORY TECHQNIUES FIELD REPORT COURSE INSTRUCTOR: DR. MAKOKHA GEORGE TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENTS PAGES 1. 0 Introduction 1 1. Significance of the study . 2 1. 2 Objectives .. 2 1. 2. 1 Specific Objectives . 2 2. 0 METHODS AND MATERIALS . 3 2. INTRODUCTION.. 3 2. 2 Study area .. 3 2. 3 Research design 6 2. 4 Data collection procedures and laboratory analysis . 6 2. 4. Soil Texture 6 2. 4. 2 Infiltration .. 7 3. 0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 8 3. 1 Soil Infiltration Measurements . 8 4. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION .. 13 5. 0 REFERENCES.. 15 APPENDIX 17 Appendix 1: Data sheet for Infiltration for Banana and Maize Fields .. 17 ii LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Infiltration Curve of Banana field . 0 Figure 2: Cumulative Infiltration of Banana Field 10 Figure 3: Infiltration curve of Maize Field 11 Figure 4: Cumulative infiltration of Maize Field 11 iii LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Description of infiltration sites .. 8 Table 2. Summary of the soil texture report from the test sites .. 12 LIST OF PLATES Plate 1: Infiltration in Banana and Maize field respectively 7 iv v 1. 0 Introduction Water is one of the most important factors limiting the growth of plants in all Agricultural systems. In this respect, good water management is necessary in order to solve water related problems such as irrigation and erosion control. Infiltration is the process by which water arriving at the soil surface enters the soil. This process affects surface runoff, soil erosion, and groundwater recharge (Gregory et al. , 2005). The rate at which it occurs is known as infiltration rate which mainly depends on the characteristics of the soil. ( Saxton, 1986) reported that, the major soil and water characteristics affecting infiltration rates are: the initial moisture content, condition of the surface, hydraulic conductivity of the soil profile, texture, porosity, degree of swelling of soil colloids, organic matter, vegetative cover and duration of irrigation or rainfall and of these, soil texture is predominant. We will write a custom essay sample on Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Therefore the measurement of water infiltration into the soil is an important indication in regard to the efficiency of irrigation and drainage, optimizing the availability of water for plants, improving the yield of crops, minimizing erosion and describing the soil permeability. Land use and land cover changes among other factors have also been reported to infuluence the infiltration rate of soil. According to (Suresh, 2008), for a given soil, the land use pattern plays a vital role in determining its infiltration characteristics. Different land use practices affect infiltration rates in different ways. (Taylor et al, 2009), observed that intensified land use results primarily in a change in soil structure rather than soil compaction. When land is put to certain uses, there is an accompanying change in the properties of the soil and this alters the hydrological balance of the soil. According to (Osuji, 2010) infiltration rates in tropical forests under bush fallow were found to be high compared to arable crop land. In addition, Majaliwa et al. 2010) explains that the change from natural forest cover to tea and Eucalyptus induces changes in top soil properties like exchangeable Magnesium and Calcium, available Phosphorus, soil organic matter, soil pH, and soil structure of sub soil. Furthermore, Land use/type cover influences soil organic matter evolution which is a vital indicator of soil quality and it has implications on soil properties like aggregate stability/soil structure, infiltration and aeration rates , microbial activity and nutrient release (Boye and 1 Albrect, 2001). Additionally a soilââ¬â¢s water retention characteristic, is affected by soil organic matter (SOM) content and porosity, which are significantly influenced by land use type (Zhou et al. , 2008). Gatundu catchment is one of the catchments in Kenya which have experienced soil degradation due to conversion of natural forest to crop land mainly banana, maize and Coffee. This has been fastened by the increasing population in the catchment leaving most of the natural forest cover cleared and replaced by crop land. The result has been massive soil degradation, through loss of plant nutrients and organic matter, soil erosion, river bank degradation; build up of salinity, and damage to soil structure (Bekunda et al. , 2010). Therefore this study aims to determine the degree of relationship between infiltration rates and the land use types in two selected sites under Banana and Maize cropping systems in Gatundu sub catchment. 1. 1 Significance of the study The knowledge of water retention capacity and land use effects is important for efficient soil and water management. Upon conversion of natural lands to cultivated fields, water retention capacity is strongly influenced (Schwartz et al. , 2000; Bormann and Klaassen, 2008; Zhou et al. , 2008). Thus, infiltration rate is an important factor in sustainable agriculture, effective watershed management, surface runoff, and retaining water and soil resources. Properly designed and constructed infiltration facilities can be one of the most effective flow control (and water quality treatment) storm water control practices, and should be encouraged where conditions are appropriate (Ecology, 2005) 1. Objectives The objective of the study is to determine the effect of banana and Maize land use practices on water infiltration into the soil in Gatundu catchment 1. 2. 1 Specific Objectives 2 1. 2. Describe how different soil types influence water flow through the soil Compare Water movements through the soil at two different sites (Banana and Maize fields) 3. To find out how soil texture influences water infiltra tion into the soil 2. 0 METHODS AND MATERIALS 2. INTRODUCTION This section covers the methods and materials used in the study which include description of the study area, experimental design, field data collection procedures for soil samples and data analysis procedures; laboratory and statistical data analysis using Microsoft office package. 2. 2 Study area Gatundu district is one of the districts located in central province of Kenya at 1à ° 1 0 South, 36à ° 56 0 East; covering an area of 481. 1 km2 and borders Thika district to the East and North and Kiambu East to the South and West (Figure 5). The population density varies from 370 persons per Km2 in Chania and Mangu divisions to 636 persons per Km2 in Gatundu division on the 2008 population projections. Gatundu division is the most densely populated division with 636 persons per square Km. The population over the plan period is expected to increase marginally thereby increasing demand and competition for the available resources like water and land resources (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). 3 ` Figure 5: Map of Gatundu south Topography features of Gatundu district Gatundu district is located about 1520 m ASL at the lowest point and 2280 m ASL at the highest point. There are several permanent rivers and streams that traverse the landscape and these include Ndaruga, Thiririka, and Kahuga. All these rivers flow from the Aberdare ranges to the west and towards the southeast joining River Tana thus forming part of Tana and Athi river 4 drainage system. The train is conducive for gravity system of irrigation (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). Terrain Gatundu district is characterized by a ragged terrain, which has had both the negative and positive impacts on the development of the district. The steep slopes and valleys characteristic of the most part of the district, coupled with intensive crop cultivation render most of these areas susceptible to soil erosion making it necessary for farmers to practice terracing which is costly. The conducive environment in the district favour the cultivation of tea and coffee however, other crops like cereals, horticultural crops such as pineapple, mangoes, avocadoes and vegetables plus bananas (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). Soils Gatundu district has soils that correspond entirely with typical Aberdare Humic Andosols and Nitosols. These Nitosols have great agricultural potential coupled with the relatively high rainfall regime in the region. Production of tea, coffee, tropical fruits and food crops such as maize, beans and potatoes are the most common sources of income to the households. The hilly terrain of the district has had profound effect on the soils, resulting into low and moderate fertility levels (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). Climate The rainfall pattern is bi-modal with two distinct rainy seasons, long rains falling in March and May while short rains between October and November. The amount received varies with altitude ranging from 800 mm to 2000 mm with the highest rainfall being experienced in the tea zones. The mean temperature is 200 C with coldest months being June, July and August. The hottest months are February, March and April. Temperatures vary from 80C minimum to 300 C maximum during the year. (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012) 5 2. 3 Research design A completely randomized block design was used for the study. Two treatments were considered (Banana and Maize land uses) and the blocking was landscape position. For Each land use type, only one experiment was carried out because of time. . 4 Data collection procedures and laboratory analysis 2. 4. 1 Soil Texture Five (5) soil samples from both Banana and Maize land uses at different landscape positions were collected. The sampling was done at depth of 0 -15 cm and were collected using a 50 mm diameter auger using a Random sampling Technique as explained by Haghighi et al. (2010) . The 0- 15cm depth was considered because itââ¬â¢s the major agricultural layer and root zone for most of the crops. The five soil samples from each land use were thoroughly mixed to obtain composite soil samples which were taken to Makerere University Laboratory for Analysis. Soil texture was determined using the hydrometer method described by Bouyoucos (1962) and results presented in percentages of mineral proportions. The samples were passed through an electric shaker for 30 minutes and then the sample was treated with sodium hexametaphosphate to complex Ca++, Al3+, Fe3+, and other cations that bind clay and silt particles into aggregates. The density of the soil suspension was determined with a hydrometer which was calibrated to read in grams of solids per liter after the sand settled out and again after the silt settled. Corrections were made for the density and temperature of the dispersing solutions. The percentages of mineral fractions were calculated as below; Percent clay: % clay = corrected hydrometer reading at 6 hrs, 52 min. x 100/ wt. of sample Percent silt: % silt = corrected hydrometer reading at 40 sec. x 100/ wt. of sample % clay Percent sand: 6 % sand = 100% % silt % clay Results were reported as percentages of the mineral fraction, % sand, % silt, and % clay. Soil texture was based on the USDA textural triangle. 2. 4. 2 Infiltration The infiltration rate was determined using double-ring infiltrometer as described by American Society for Testing and Materials (1994). It consists of two concentric metal rings. The rings were driven into the ground and filled with water. The outer ring helped to prevent divergent flow. The drop-in water level or volume in the inner ring was used to calculate the infiltration rate. Clock time was recorded when the test began and noted the water level on the ruler at different time intervals as seen in Appendix 1, recorded the drop in water level in the inner ring on the ruler and kept adding water to bring the level back to approximately the original level. The tests were conducted for a period of one to two hours, until the infiltration rate became constant. The infiltration rate was calculated from the rate of fall of the water level in the inner ring as seen in Appendix 1 in the tenth minutes in both the banana field and maize fields. The data was analyzed by drawing graphs of infiltration rate and cumulative infiltration. In both cases, curves were obtained. Plate 1: Infiltration in Banana and Maize field respectively 7 3. 0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 3. Soil Infiltration Measurements Soil infiltration measurements were made at 2 sites in Gatundu sub catchment (Plate 1 above). The two sites have the same soil characteristics, therefore they have been classified by the different land uses and land scape positions coupled by other field observations. Sites were selected based on land use, proximity to water source, site accessibility, and soil type. Table 1: Description of infiltration sites Site Location Banana Site Observed and use and field observations Site with Banana plantations, Has some mounds, some trees adjacent to the field, itââ¬â¢s on a higher elevation Maize Site Site with Maize, The site is close to a trench used for moving water, Its close to the road , Itââ¬â¢s on a lower elevation Figure 1(Banana land use) and Figure 3(Maize land use) shows that the water infiltrates at a very high rate at the beginning with 1800 mm/hr and 720mm/hr respectively; because the hydraulic gradient is high and then keeps declining with time until it becomes fairly steady after the soils become saturated, which is termed as basic infiltration rate. This is also emphasized by Horton (1940) where he asserts that infiltration becomes constant with time as the soil column reaches fully saturated conditions which occurred at 40th and 49th minute time intervals in Banana and Maize Land use Systems as seen in appendix 1. Rubin and Steinhardt (1963) also showed that the final infiltration rate reached under these conditions is equal to the vertical hydraulic conductivity of a saturated soil. 8 The steady state in Maize was attained earlier than in banana land use corresponding to 204mm/hr and 450mm/hr respectively. This can be associated to soil disturbances during ploughing and land preparation season after season for annual crops like maize compared to banana field (Perennial) which have less soil disturbances. The scenario under maize land use may lead to soil compaction as a result of continuous cultivation. This is emphasized by Pitt et al. , 2002 and 2008; Pitt et al. , (1999b) who found substantial reductions in infiltration rates due to soil compaction. The implication is that beyond the steady point (saturation point), if more water is applied to the soil, it results into surface water runoff. Infiltration depends upon physical and hydraulic properties of the soil moisture content, previous wetting history, structural changes in the layers and air entrapment. The basic infiltration rate of maize land use is lower than that of Banana land use system as seen in Appendix 1; this can be associated to a number of factors although not conclusive for the attained results; 1. The Initial moisture content; the study was carried out in a rainy season, therefore for saturated soils, the infiltration falls to the aturated hydraulic conductivity almost instantaneously. 2. Considering the type of land use in each of the sites; Soils under Perennials (Banana Land use) are subjected to less interferences in terms of land preparations compared to land under annuals (Maize Land use) which correlates with the obtained results of 450mm/hr and 204mm/hr respectively 3. The surrounding of the site; the Maize field is on a lower elevation and near a trench which collects water, therefore itââ¬â ¢s possible that the soils could easily reach saturation 9 Infiltration rate mm/hr 000 1800 1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Infiltration rate,mm/hr infiltration rate mm/hr Time(minutes) Figure 1: Infiltration Curve of Banana field Cummulative infiltration cummulative infiltration,mm 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Cummulative infiltration Time,hrs Figure 2: Cumulative Infiltration of Banana Field In Banana land use, Infiltration was recorded at time intervals of 1, 5 and 10 minutes and in Maize land use it was at 3, 6 and 10 minutes time intervals (Appendix 1) 10 Infiltration rate/hr 800 Infiltration rate mm/hr 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Infiltration rate/hr Time,hrs Figure 3: Infiltration curve of Maize Field Cummulative infiltration Cummulative infiltration,mm 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Cummulative infiltration Time,hrs Figure 4: Cumulative infiltration of Maize Field 11 Table 2 below compares the infiltration rates of two sites, classified according to the texture of the soil profiles in Banana and Maize land use systems. In each set of measurements, the infiltration rate of the Banana field belonging to the sandy clay loam was much higher than Maize field belonging to clay loam because of the variation in the physical properties of the two textural classes. In the banana field, basic infiltration rate was attained at 450mm/hr which is higher than that of maize field, 204mm/hr and this explains the relationship between soil texture, structure and infiltration which was obtained in our results where the Banana field with sandy clay loams having larger pores allowed in more water to infiltrate compared to clay loam with relatively smaller pores. From our results, The banana field reached saturation earlier (40th minute) than the Maize field (49th minute) which deviates from the assumption that the field at lower elevation reaches saturation earlier than the other on the higher elevation, and this case the maize field was on a lower elevation. As it is not possible to vary soil texture independently of other characteristics it is not inferred that the infiltration rates are caused by texture. Table 2 Summary of the soil texture report from the test sites Sample Percentage % Sand Banana Field Maize Field 50 40 Silt 26 26 Clay 24 34 Sand clay loam Clay loam Textural Class 12 4. 0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION Generally from the findings, the two sites registered high basic infiltration rates with banana and maize land use having 405mm/hr and 204mm/hr respectively. The two sites as well reached saturation easily because of the amount of water that was held within the soil because of the rainy season. Several factors influenced the test; measuring rapidly changing water levels was difficult especially for one minute time intervals and therefore subject to inaccuracy and the local site features, challenges in elevation and the soils being too soft which kept altering the position of the ruler and varying the depth thus may have affected individual test results. Therefore the study required more data collection and time to be able to sample many sites at different time intervals. For this study, tests were conducted during a rainy period in December, 2012, where the water table was expected to be above most soil layers. However, Infiltration is a key parameter in Watershed management therefore Properly designed and constructed infiltration facilities can be one of the most effective flow control (and water quality treatment) , and should be encouraged where conditions are appropriate (Ecology, 2005). Additionally infiltration separates water into two major components surface runoff and subsurface recharge, therefore assessment and Evaluation of runoff risk has assumed an increased importance because of concerns about associated pollution hazards in which pollutants are likely to be transferred from soil to rivers and lakes. The speed of irrigation of fields is based on infiltration tests and data; in surface irrigation, infiltration changes dramatically throughout the irrigation season. The water movements alter the surface structure and geometry which in turn affect infiltration rates; therefore accurate determination of infiltration rates is essential for reliable prediction of surface runoff. As environmental impact assessments are concerned with long-term effects, it is essential that the 13 infiltration data on which they are based should be reasonably stable. For planning purposes it is essential to know the stability of infiltration data. 4 5. 0 REFERENCES American Society for Testing and Materials, 1994, Standard test method for infiltration rate of soils in field using double-ring infiltrometer: ASTM Publication D-3385-94, 7 p. Bouyoucos, G. J. 1962. Hydrometer method improved for making particle size analysis of soils. Agron. J. 54:464-465. Ecology (2005) Stormwater Management Manual for Weste rn Washington; Olympia, WA. Washington State Department of Ecology Water Quality Program. Publication Numbers 05-10-029 through 05-10-033. http://www. ecy. wa. gov/pubs/0510029. pdf Gregory, J. H. , Dukes, M. D. , Miller, G. L. , and Jones P. H. (2005) Analysis of double-ring infiltration techniques and development of a simple automatic water delivery system. Applied Turfgrass Science. Haghighi. F. , Gorjiz, M. Shorafa M. (2010). Effects of Land Use Change on Important Soil Properties. Land Degrad. Develop. 21, 496ââ¬â502. Horton, R. E. , 1940, An approach towards a physical interpretation of infiltration capacity: Soils Science Society of America Proceedings, v. 5, p. 399-417. Osuji, G. E,Okon M. A; Chukwuma and Nwaire (2010): Infiltration characteristics of soils under selected landuse practices in Oweri, Southern Nigeria. World journal of Agricultural Sciences 6(3): 322 326 Pitt, R. ; J. Lantrip; R. Harrison; C. Henry, and D. Hue (1999b) Infiltration through Disturbed Urban Soils and Compost-Amended Soil Effects on Runoff Quality and Quantity; EPA 600-R-00-016. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. National Risk Management Research Laboratory. Office of Research and Development. Cincinnati, OH: 231 pp. Pitt, R; Chen, S. -E; Clark, S. E (2002) Compacted Urban Soils Effects on Infiltration and Bioretention Stormwater Control Designs; Proc. , 9th Int. Conf. on Urban Drainage (9ICUD). Portland, Oregon. Pitt, R; Chen, S-E; Clark, S; Swenson, J. , and Ong, C. K (2008) Compactionââ¬â¢s Impacts on Urban Storm-Water Infiltration; J. Irrig. and Drain. Engrg. , 134(5), 652-658. Rubin, J. , and Steinhardt, R. , 1963, Soils water relations during rain infiltration; Part ITheory: Soils Science Society of America Proceedings, v. 27, p. 246-251 Saxton, K. E. , W. L. Rawls, J. S. Rosenberger and R. I Papendick, 1986. Estimating generalized soil water characteristics from texture. Soil Sci. Soc. Amer. J. , 50: 1031-1036 15 Schwartz, R. C. , Unger, P. W. Evett S. R. , 2000. Land use effects on soil hydraulicproperties. Suresh, D. (2008). Land and Water Management Principles: New Delhi, Shansi Publishers Taylor, M. , M. Mulholland and D. Thornburrow,2009. Infiltration Characteristics of Soils Under forestry and Agriculture in the Upper Waikato Catchment. Report: TR/18 http:// www. ew. govt. nz/publications/ Technical-Reports/ TR-200918/ Zhou, X. , Lin, H. S. , White, E. A. , 2008. Surface soil hydraulic properties in four soil series under different land uses and their temporal changes. Catena. 73, 180-188. 16 APPENDIX Appendix 1: Data sheet for Infiltration for Banana and Maize Fields Banana Field Time Reading clock on difference, Cumulative min time, min Infiltration Water Level, Infiltration, Infiltratio rate cm cm n, mm mm/min Infiltration rate mm/hr Cumulative infiltration, mm 12:32 12:33 12:34 12:35 12:36 12:37 12:42 12:47 12:52 12:57 13:02 13:07 1 1 1 1 1 5 5 5 5 5 10 1 2 3 4 5 10 15 20 25 30 40 12. 0 13. 5 13. 8 14. 0 14. 3 9. 4 12. 8 11. 0 12. 0 12. 7 9. 8 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 17. 0 17. 3 17. 3 17. 5 3. 0 1. 5 1. 2 1. 0 0. 7 5. 6 2. 2 4. 0 5. 0 4. 6 7. 5 17 30 15 12 10 7 56 22 40 50 46 75 Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya Essay Example Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya Essay KENYATTA UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCES DEPARTMENT OF GEOGRAPHY STUDY ON INFILTRATION AND SOIL TEXTURE UNDER BANANA AND MAIZE LAND USE SYSTEMS IN GATUNDU CATCHMENT, KIAMBU COUNTY,KENYA KAKAIRE JOEL I56EA/20023/2012 ICEDUNA MARION I56EA/20021/2012 MWM714: FIELD MAPPING AND LABORATORY TECHQNIUES FIELD REPORT COURSE INSTRUCTOR: DR. MAKOKHA GEORGE TABLE OF CONTENTS CONTENTS PAGES 1. 0 Introduction 1 1. Significance of the study . 2 1. 2 Objectives .. 2 1. 2. 1 Specific Objectives . 2 2. 0 METHODS AND MATERIALS . 3 2. INTRODUCTION.. 3 2. 2 Study area .. 3 2. 3 Research design 6 2. 4 Data collection procedures and laboratory analysis . 6 2. 4. Soil Texture 6 2. 4. 2 Infiltration .. 7 3. 0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 8 3. 1 Soil Infiltration Measurements . 8 4. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION .. 13 5. 0 REFERENCES.. 15 APPENDIX 17 Appendix 1: Data sheet for Infiltration for Banana and Maize Fields .. 17 ii LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1: Infiltration Curve of Banana field . 0 Figure 2: Cumulative Infiltration of Banana Field 10 Figure 3: Infiltration curve of Maize Field 11 Figure 4: Cumulative infiltration of Maize Field 11 iii LIST OF TABLES Table 1: Description of infiltration sites .. 8 Table 2. Summary of the soil texture report from the test sites .. 12 LIST OF PLATES Plate 1: Infiltration in Banana and Maize field respectively 7 iv v 1. 0 Introduction Water is one of the most important factors limiting the growth of plants in all Agricultural systems. In this respect, good water management is necessary in order to solve water related problems such as irrigation and erosion control. Infiltration is the process by which water arriving at the soil surface enters the soil. This process affects surface runoff, soil erosion, and groundwater recharge (Gregory et al. , 2005). The rate at which it occurs is known as infiltration rate which mainly depends on the characteristics of the soil. ( Saxton, 1986) reported that, the major soil and water characteristics affecting infiltration rates are: the initial moisture content, condition of the surface, hydraulic conductivity of the soil profile, texture, porosity, degree of swelling of soil colloids, organic matter, vegetative cover and duration of irrigation or rainfall and of these, soil texture is predominant. We will write a custom essay sample on Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Study on Infiltration and Soil Texture Under Banana and Maize Land Use Systems in Gatundu Catchment, Kiambu County, Kenya specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Therefore the measurement of water infiltration into the soil is an important indication in regard to the efficiency of irrigation and drainage, optimizing the availability of water for plants, improving the yield of crops, minimizing erosion and describing the soil permeability. Land use and land cover changes among other factors have also been reported to infuluence the infiltration rate of soil. According to (Suresh, 2008), for a given soil, the land use pattern plays a vital role in determining its infiltration characteristics. Different land use practices affect infiltration rates in different ways. (Taylor et al, 2009), observed that intensified land use results primarily in a change in soil structure rather than soil compaction. When land is put to certain uses, there is an accompanying change in the properties of the soil and this alters the hydrological balance of the soil. According to (Osuji, 2010) infiltration rates in tropical forests under bush fallow were found to be high compared to arable crop land. In addition, Majaliwa et al. 2010) explains that the change from natural forest cover to tea and Eucalyptus induces changes in top soil properties like exchangeable Magnesium and Calcium, available Phosphorus, soil organic matter, soil pH, and soil structure of sub soil. Furthermore, Land use/type cover influences soil organic matter evolution which is a vital indicator of soil quality and it has implications on soil properties like aggregate stability/soil structure, infiltration and aeration rates , microbial activity and nutrient release (Boye and 1 Albrect, 2001). Additionally a soilââ¬â¢s water retention characteristic, is affected by soil organic matter (SOM) content and porosity, which are significantly influenced by land use type (Zhou et al. , 2008). Gatundu catchment is one of the catchments in Kenya which have experienced soil degradation due to conversion of natural forest to crop land mainly banana, maize and Coffee. This has been fastened by the increasing population in the catchment leaving most of the natural forest cover cleared and replaced by crop land. The result has been massive soil degradation, through loss of plant nutrients and organic matter, soil erosion, river bank degradation; build up of salinity, and damage to soil structure (Bekunda et al. , 2010). Therefore this study aims to determine the degree of relationship between infiltration rates and the land use types in two selected sites under Banana and Maize cropping systems in Gatundu sub catchment. 1. 1 Significance of the study The knowledge of water retention capacity and land use effects is important for efficient soil and water management. Upon conversion of natural lands to cultivated fields, water retention capacity is strongly influenced (Schwartz et al. , 2000; Bormann and Klaassen, 2008; Zhou et al. , 2008). Thus, infiltration rate is an important factor in sustainable agriculture, effective watershed management, surface runoff, and retaining water and soil resources. Properly designed and constructed infiltration facilities can be one of the most effective flow control (and water quality treatment) storm water control practices, and should be encouraged where conditions are appropriate (Ecology, 2005) 1. Objectives The objective of the study is to determine the effect of banana and Maize land use practices on water infiltration into the soil in Gatundu catchment 1. 2. 1 Specific Objectives 2 1. 2. Describe how different soil types influence water flow through the soil Compare Water movements through the soil at two different sites (Banana and Maize fields) 3. To find out how soil texture influences water infiltra tion into the soil 2. 0 METHODS AND MATERIALS 2. INTRODUCTION This section covers the methods and materials used in the study which include description of the study area, experimental design, field data collection procedures for soil samples and data analysis procedures; laboratory and statistical data analysis using Microsoft office package. 2. 2 Study area Gatundu district is one of the districts located in central province of Kenya at 1à ° 1 0 South, 36à ° 56 0 East; covering an area of 481. 1 km2 and borders Thika district to the East and North and Kiambu East to the South and West (Figure 5). The population density varies from 370 persons per Km2 in Chania and Mangu divisions to 636 persons per Km2 in Gatundu division on the 2008 population projections. Gatundu division is the most densely populated division with 636 persons per square Km. The population over the plan period is expected to increase marginally thereby increasing demand and competition for the available resources like water and land resources (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). 3 ` Figure 5: Map of Gatundu south Topography features of Gatundu district Gatundu district is located about 1520 m ASL at the lowest point and 2280 m ASL at the highest point. There are several permanent rivers and streams that traverse the landscape and these include Ndaruga, Thiririka, and Kahuga. All these rivers flow from the Aberdare ranges to the west and towards the southeast joining River Tana thus forming part of Tana and Athi river 4 drainage system. The train is conducive for gravity system of irrigation (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). Terrain Gatundu district is characterized by a ragged terrain, which has had both the negative and positive impacts on the development of the district. The steep slopes and valleys characteristic of the most part of the district, coupled with intensive crop cultivation render most of these areas susceptible to soil erosion making it necessary for farmers to practice terracing which is costly. The conducive environment in the district favour the cultivation of tea and coffee however, other crops like cereals, horticultural crops such as pineapple, mangoes, avocadoes and vegetables plus bananas (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). Soils Gatundu district has soils that correspond entirely with typical Aberdare Humic Andosols and Nitosols. These Nitosols have great agricultural potential coupled with the relatively high rainfall regime in the region. Production of tea, coffee, tropical fruits and food crops such as maize, beans and potatoes are the most common sources of income to the households. The hilly terrain of the district has had profound effect on the soils, resulting into low and moderate fertility levels (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012). Climate The rainfall pattern is bi-modal with two distinct rainy seasons, long rains falling in March and May while short rains between October and November. The amount received varies with altitude ranging from 800 mm to 2000 mm with the highest rainfall being experienced in the tea zones. The mean temperature is 200 C with coldest months being June, July and August. The hottest months are February, March and April. Temperatures vary from 80C minimum to 300 C maximum during the year. (Gatundu District Development plan, 2008 -2012) 5 2. 3 Research design A completely randomized block design was used for the study. Two treatments were considered (Banana and Maize land uses) and the blocking was landscape position. For Each land use type, only one experiment was carried out because of time. . 4 Data collection procedures and laboratory analysis 2. 4. 1 Soil Texture Five (5) soil samples from both Banana and Maize land uses at different landscape positions were collected. The sampling was done at depth of 0 -15 cm and were collected using a 50 mm diameter auger using a Random sampling Technique as explained by Haghighi et al. (2010) . The 0- 15cm depth was considered because itââ¬â¢s the major agricultural layer and root zone for most of the crops. The five soil samples from each land use were thoroughly mixed to obtain composite soil samples which were taken to Makerere University Laboratory for Analysis. Soil texture was determined using the hydrometer method described by Bouyoucos (1962) and results presented in percentages of mineral proportions. The samples were passed through an electric shaker for 30 minutes and then the sample was treated with sodium hexametaphosphate to complex Ca++, Al3+, Fe3+, and other cations that bind clay and silt particles into aggregates. The density of the soil suspension was determined with a hydrometer which was calibrated to read in grams of solids per liter after the sand settled out and again after the silt settled. Corrections were made for the density and temperature of the dispersing solutions. The percentages of mineral fractions were calculated as below; Percent clay: % clay = corrected hydrometer reading at 6 hrs, 52 min. x 100/ wt. of sample Percent silt: % silt = corrected hydrometer reading at 40 sec. x 100/ wt. of sample % clay Percent sand: 6 % sand = 100% % silt % clay Results were reported as percentages of the mineral fraction, % sand, % silt, and % clay. Soil texture was based on the USDA textural triangle. 2. 4. 2 Infiltration The infiltration rate was determined using double-ring infiltrometer as described by American Society for Testing and Materials (1994). It consists of two concentric metal rings. The rings were driven into the ground and filled with water. The outer ring helped to prevent divergent flow. The drop-in water level or volume in the inner ring was used to calculate the infiltration rate. Clock time was recorded when the test began and noted the water level on the ruler at different time intervals as seen in Appendix 1, recorded the drop in water level in the inner ring on the ruler and kept adding water to bring the level back to approximately the original level. The tests were conducted for a period of one to two hours, until the infiltration rate became constant. The infiltration rate was calculated from the rate of fall of the water level in the inner ring as seen in Appendix 1 in the tenth minutes in both the banana field and maize fields. The data was analyzed by drawing graphs of infiltration rate and cumulative infiltration. In both cases, curves were obtained. Plate 1: Infiltration in Banana and Maize field respectively 7 3. 0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS 3. Soil Infiltration Measurements Soil infiltration measurements were made at 2 sites in Gatundu sub catchment (Plate 1 above). The two sites have the same soil characteristics, therefore they have been classified by the different land uses and land scape positions coupled by other field observations. Sites were selected based on land use, proximity to water source, site accessibility, and soil type. Table 1: Description of infiltration sites Site Location Banana Site Observed and use and field observations Site with Banana plantations, Has some mounds, some trees adjacent to the field, itââ¬â¢s on a higher elevation Maize Site Site with Maize, The site is close to a trench used for moving water, Its close to the road , Itââ¬â¢s on a lower elevation Figure 1(Banana land use) and Figure 3(Maize land use) shows that the water infiltrates at a very high rate at the beginning with 1800 mm/hr and 720mm/hr respectively; because the hydraulic gradient is high and then keeps declining with time until it becomes fairly steady after the soils become saturated, which is termed as basic infiltration rate. This is also emphasized by Horton (1940) where he asserts that infiltration becomes constant with time as the soil column reaches fully saturated conditions which occurred at 40th and 49th minute time intervals in Banana and Maize Land use Systems as seen in appendix 1. Rubin and Steinhardt (1963) also showed that the final infiltration rate reached under these conditions is equal to the vertical hydraulic conductivity of a saturated soil. 8 The steady state in Maize was attained earlier than in banana land use corresponding to 204mm/hr and 450mm/hr respectively. This can be associated to soil disturbances during ploughing and land preparation season after season for annual crops like maize compared to banana field (Perennial) which have less soil disturbances. The scenario under maize land use may lead to soil compaction as a result of continuous cultivation. This is emphasized by Pitt et al. , 2002 and 2008; Pitt et al. , (1999b) who found substantial reductions in infiltration rates due to soil compaction. The implication is that beyond the steady point (saturation point), if more water is applied to the soil, it results into surface water runoff. Infiltration depends upon physical and hydraulic properties of the soil moisture content, previous wetting history, structural changes in the layers and air entrapment. The basic infiltration rate of maize land use is lower than that of Banana land use system as seen in Appendix 1; this can be associated to a number of factors although not conclusive for the attained results; 1. The Initial moisture content; the study was carried out in a rainy season, therefore for saturated soils, the infiltration falls to the aturated hydraulic conductivity almost instantaneously. 2. Considering the type of land use in each of the sites; Soils under Perennials (Banana Land use) are subjected to less interferences in terms of land preparations compared to land under annuals (Maize Land use) which correlates with the obtained results of 450mm/hr and 204mm/hr respectively 3. The surrounding of the site; the Maize field is on a lower elevation and near a trench which collects water, therefore itââ¬â ¢s possible that the soils could easily reach saturation 9 Infiltration rate mm/hr 000 1800 1600 1400 1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Infiltration rate,mm/hr infiltration rate mm/hr Time(minutes) Figure 1: Infiltration Curve of Banana field Cummulative infiltration cummulative infiltration,mm 500 450 400 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Cummulative infiltration Time,hrs Figure 2: Cumulative Infiltration of Banana Field In Banana land use, Infiltration was recorded at time intervals of 1, 5 and 10 minutes and in Maize land use it was at 3, 6 and 10 minutes time intervals (Appendix 1) 10 Infiltration rate/hr 800 Infiltration rate mm/hr 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Infiltration rate/hr Time,hrs Figure 3: Infiltration curve of Maize Field Cummulative infiltration Cummulative infiltration,mm 350 300 250 200 150 100 50 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Cummulative infiltration Time,hrs Figure 4: Cumulative infiltration of Maize Field 11 Table 2 below compares the infiltration rates of two sites, classified according to the texture of the soil profiles in Banana and Maize land use systems. In each set of measurements, the infiltration rate of the Banana field belonging to the sandy clay loam was much higher than Maize field belonging to clay loam because of the variation in the physical properties of the two textural classes. In the banana field, basic infiltration rate was attained at 450mm/hr which is higher than that of maize field, 204mm/hr and this explains the relationship between soil texture, structure and infiltration which was obtained in our results where the Banana field with sandy clay loams having larger pores allowed in more water to infiltrate compared to clay loam with relatively smaller pores. From our results, The banana field reached saturation earlier (40th minute) than the Maize field (49th minute) which deviates from the assumption that the field at lower elevation reaches saturation earlier than the other on the higher elevation, and this case the maize field was on a lower elevation. As it is not possible to vary soil texture independently of other characteristics it is not inferred that the infiltration rates are caused by texture. Table 2 Summary of the soil texture report from the test sites Sample Percentage % Sand Banana Field Maize Field 50 40 Silt 26 26 Clay 24 34 Sand clay loam Clay loam Textural Class 12 4. 0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION Generally from the findings, the two sites registered high basic infiltration rates with banana and maize land use having 405mm/hr and 204mm/hr respectively. The two sites as well reached saturation easily because of the amount of water that was held within the soil because of the rainy season. Several factors influenced the test; measuring rapidly changing water levels was difficult especially for one minute time intervals and therefore subject to inaccuracy and the local site features, challenges in elevation and the soils being too soft which kept altering the position of the ruler and varying the depth thus may have affected individual test results. Therefore the study required more data collection and time to be able to sample many sites at different time intervals. For this study, tests were conducted during a rainy period in December, 2012, where the water table was expected to be above most soil layers. However, Infiltration is a key parameter in Watershed management therefore Properly designed and constructed infiltration facilities can be one of the most effective flow control (and water quality treatment) , and should be encouraged where conditions are appropriate (Ecology, 2005). Additionally infiltration separates water into two major components surface runoff and subsurface recharge, therefore assessment and Evaluation of runoff risk has assumed an increased importance because of concerns about associated pollution hazards in which pollutants are likely to be transferred from soil to rivers and lakes. The speed of irrigation of fields is based on infiltration tests and data; in surface irrigation, infiltration changes dramatically throughout the irrigation season. The water movements alter the surface structure and geometry which in turn affect infiltration rates; therefore accurate determination of infiltration rates is essential for reliable prediction of surface runoff. As environmental impact assessments are concerned with long-term effects, it is essential that the 13 infiltration data on which they are based should be reasonably stable. For planning purposes it is essential to know the stability of infiltration data. 4 5. 0 REFERENCES American Society for Testing and Materials, 1994, Standard test method for infiltration rate of soils in field using double-ring infiltrometer: ASTM Publication D-3385-94, 7 p. Bouyoucos, G. J. 1962. Hydrometer method improved for making particle size analysis of soils. Agron. J. 54:464-465. Ecology (2005) Stormwater Management Manual for Weste rn Washington; Olympia, WA. Washington State Department of Ecology Water Quality Program. Publication Numbers 05-10-029 through 05-10-033. http://www. ecy. wa. gov/pubs/0510029. pdf Gregory, J. H. , Dukes, M. D. , Miller, G. L. , and Jones P. H. (2005) Analysis of double-ring infiltration techniques and development of a simple automatic water delivery system. Applied Turfgrass Science. Haghighi. F. , Gorjiz, M. Shorafa M. (2010). Effects of Land Use Change on Important Soil Properties. Land Degrad. Develop. 21, 496ââ¬â502. Horton, R. E. , 1940, An approach towards a physical interpretation of infiltration capacity: Soils Science Society of America Proceedings, v. 5, p. 399-417. Osuji, G. E,Okon M. A; Chukwuma and Nwaire (2010): Infiltration characteristics of soils under selected landuse practices in Oweri, Southern Nigeria. World journal of Agricultural Sciences 6(3): 322 326 Pitt, R. ; J. Lantrip; R. Harrison; C. Henry, and D. Hue (1999b) Infiltration through Disturbed Urban Soils and Compost-Amended Soil Effects on Runoff Quality and Quantity; EPA 600-R-00-016. U. S. Environmental Protection Agency. National Risk Management Research Laboratory. Office of Research and Development. Cincinnati, OH: 231 pp. Pitt, R; Chen, S. -E; Clark, S. E (2002) Compacted Urban Soils Effects on Infiltration and Bioretention Stormwater Control Designs; Proc. , 9th Int. Conf. on Urban Drainage (9ICUD). Portland, Oregon. Pitt, R; Chen, S-E; Clark, S; Swenson, J. , and Ong, C. K (2008) Compactionââ¬â¢s Impacts on Urban Storm-Water Infiltration; J. Irrig. and Drain. Engrg. , 134(5), 652-658. Rubin, J. , and Steinhardt, R. , 1963, Soils water relations during rain infiltration; Part ITheory: Soils Science Society of America Proceedings, v. 27, p. 246-251 Saxton, K. E. , W. L. Rawls, J. S. Rosenberger and R. I Papendick, 1986. Estimating generalized soil water characteristics from texture. Soil Sci. Soc. Amer. J. , 50: 1031-1036 15 Schwartz, R. C. , Unger, P. W. Evett S. R. , 2000. Land use effects on soil hydraulicproperties. Suresh, D. (2008). Land and Water Management Principles: New Delhi, Shansi Publishers Taylor, M. , M. Mulholland and D. Thornburrow,2009. Infiltration Characteristics of Soils Under forestry and Agriculture in the Upper Waikato Catchment. Report: TR/18 http:// www. ew. govt. nz/publications/ Technical-Reports/ TR-200918/ Zhou, X. , Lin, H. S. , White, E. A. , 2008. Surface soil hydraulic properties in four soil series under different land uses and their temporal changes. Catena. 73, 180-188. 16 APPENDIX Appendix 1: Data sheet for Infiltration for Banana and Maize Fields Banana Field Time Reading clock on difference, Cumulative min time, min Infiltration Water Level, Infiltration, Infiltratio rate cm cm n, mm mm/min Infiltration rate mm/hr Cumulative infiltration, mm 12:32 12:33 12:34 12:35 12:36 12:37 12:42 12:47 12:52 12:57 13:02 13:07 1 1 1 1 1 5 5 5 5 5 10 1 2 3 4 5 10 15 20 25 30 40 12. 0 13. 5 13. 8 14. 0 14. 3 9. 4 12. 8 11. 0 12. 0 12. 7 9. 8 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 15. 0 17. 0 17. 3 17. 3 17. 5 3. 0 1. 5 1. 2 1. 0 0. 7 5. 6 2. 2 4. 0 5. 0 4. 6 7. 5 17 30 15 12 10 7 56 22 40 50 46 75
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)