Summary
This paper presents a systematic modelling framework for quantifying spatial and temporal soil compaction caused by grazing livestock, addressing a significant gap in quantitative understanding of this widespread environmental hazard. The framework integrates rheological principles (Bingham's law) to simulate compaction-induced changes in soil properties, coupled with empirical models of biological recovery via earthworms and root activity. Validated against field data from New Zealand pastures, the model effectively captures primary compaction effects and provides a tool for assessing environmental impacts of grazing systems in agro-ecosystem models.
UK applicability
The modelling approach is directly applicable to UK grassland and pasture systems, where livestock treading and soil compaction from cattle and sheep grazing are widespread concerns. Calibration with UK soil texture, climate and management data would be needed to apply the model to temperate grassland conditions.
Key measures
Soil bulk density, macroporosity, saturated hydraulic conductivity, soil structure recovery rate
Outcomes reported
The study developed and validated a quantitative modelling framework that predicts changes in soil bulk density, porosity, and saturated hydraulic conductivity caused by livestock treading, incorporating soil structure recovery through biological activity. The model was tested against field data from a grazing experiment and successfully reproduced observed compaction and recovery trends.
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