Author: Albab Ahmed
AIT Library Call Number: AIT RSPR no. HS-95-02
Year: 1995
Academic Program: Human Settlement (HS)
Type: Research Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) – Asian Institute of Technology, 1995
Examination Committee: Jayant Kumar Routray (Chairperson); Examination Committee Kaew Naulchawee, Vinod K. Tewari (Examination Committee Members)
Abstract: This paper explores the possibility of the application of an advanced computer information system namely, GIS ARC/INFO to delineate areas which are suitable for a variety of crops such as, maize, sugarcane, cassava, soyabean, pineapple, mango, para rubber and forage. The analysis was done by incorporating data related to physical and chemical property of the soil. Based on the results, four levels of land suitability classification was done for the crops, In addition, composite suitability analysis was done to demonstrate the competetive advantage of one crop over the other in a single piece of land. The result indicates that, as far as suitability is concerned, maize the most widely grown crop of the district is only moderately suitable for the area. Whereas, sugarcane and cassava which are cultivated in a lesser quantity have more areas under highly suitable category. Soya.bean and pineapple, which are not so common in the district al.so have potentials, particularly soya.bean as large parts of the district is highly suitable for this crop. Therefore, it has been suggested that these crops be promoted in the district for crop diversification, intercropping and crop rotation practices so as to maintain the soil quality. Para rubber as an alternative tree for increasing the forest coverage was also examined. But the tree shows only moderate suitability due to the limitations of the temperature and rainfall requirements. But mango which has been gaining popularity in recent years shows high potentials in the district. Therefore, it· has been suggested to expand mango cultivation as a means of promoting agro-forestry in the area. The GIS results also indicate that forage has the largest area under highly suitable category. Therefore, it has been suggested to expand cattle raising for milk production, particularly in areas in areas where other crops show less potentials. Therefore, it is believed that through these measures it would be possible to achievea sustainable agricultural
Scholarship Donor(s): Deutscher Akademischer Austauschdienst ( DAAD), Germany
Note: A research study submitted in partial fulfillment o f the requirements for the degree of Master of Science, School of Engineering and Technology
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