THE RELATION BETWEEN SOIL QUALITY PERCEPTION AND QUANTIFICATION IN CHACO ORCHARDS (ARGENTINA)

Abstract

The scientific system evaluates soil quality (SQ) through measurable characteristics. However, there is a farmer’s perception of SQ based on their own external and internal criteria, where senses, age and educational level have a predominant influence. The objective of this work was to analyze the SQ perception in horticultural family farmers obtained through surveys and to compare them with laboratory and field measurements. The work was carried out in 14 orchards in the Province of Chaco (Argentina), located on urban and peri-urban soils managed by very low income and low educational level farmers. Surveys responses were coded and analyzed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA). The relationship between qualitative and quantitative variables (bulk density, mean weight diameter, organic carbon, cationic exchange capacity, nitrogen, phosphorus, sand, silt, clay, equivalent humidity, porosity, aerial space and number of visible worms) was studied. Perception of SQ and quantitative data did not related, being no significant correlation. Perception of the coverage on the surface was highlighted because the bare ground is perceived; there was a certain relationship between perception of coverage and fertility with measured values of carbon and nitrogen, and % of clay was correlated with those perceived as having worse physical quality. The quantitative variables that most correlated with the responses were cationic exchange capacity, clay %, bulk density, organic carbon, nitrogen and number of worms. The results reinforce the importance of co-build knowledge and practices of soil conservation. It will be essential to develop SQ assessment tools together with horticulturists in a participatory and integrated way, to broaden the perception of problems and consequently strengthen knowledge for food production and the conservation of this valuable resource.