Soil and Water Conservation Engineering: Advances and Developments is a definitive guide that delves into the science and engineering behind conserving two of Earth’s most critical resources. This book is tailored for professionals, students, and researchers who seek practical insights and technical expertise in tackling issues like soil erosion, water scarcity, and sustainable resource management. The book presents a structured approach to understanding and implementing soil and water conservation strategies. It begins by laying the groundwork with fundamental principles of erosion processes and water cycle dynamics, then transitions to applied topics, such as advanced agricultural water management, erosion control structures, and watershed rehabilitation. The content is enriched by discussions on innovative practices, such as conservation tillage and agroforestry, which enhance resource resilience. Unlike traditional texts, this book takes a holistic view by integrating policy, climate change impacts, and emerging technologies into the conservation narrative. Readers will explore case studies from various regions, offering diverse perspectives on successful conservation projects and their broader implications. These real-world examples help bridge the gap between theory and application, making the book a valuable resource for both academic and f ieldwork purposes. The book also emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of soil and water conservation, highlighting the importance of collaboration among engineers, environmental scientists, agronomists, and policy-makers. By fostering this synergy, the book aims to equip its readers with the tools and knowledge necessary to design and implement robust conservation systems that meet the challenges of today and tomorrow. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner looking to refine your expertise or a student aspiring to make an impact in sustainable resource management, this book provides a comprehensive foundation for understanding and addressing the complexities of soil and water conservation engineering.
Dr. Sonali Swagatika is working as a Guest Faculty in the Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering (SWCE) in the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. She has a teaching experience of more than 3 years. She holds a Ph.D. in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering from OUAT, Bhubaneswar. Her research interests center around hydrological modelling and advanced GIS-RS. She has a strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals and has actively engaged in various national and international seminars and training programs. She seeks to further contribute to the advancement of SWCE and watershed management.
Dr. Saswat Kumar Kar is working as a Scientist (Land and Water Management Engineering) at ICAR-Indian Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Research Centre, Koraput, Odisha. He has a distinguished research experience of spanning over six years. He holds a Ph.D. degree in Agricultural Engineering specializing in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering from BHU, Varanasi. He has qualified ARS and NET conducted by ICAR during 2016 and GATE (Agricultural Engineering) examinations. Dr. Kar has authored over 35 research publications in renowned national and international journals.
Ms. Priyanka Mohapatra is a Ph.D. research scholar in the Department of Soil and Water Conservation Engineering (SWCE) and is currently serving as a teaching assistant at the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. She has completed her Bachelor of Technology in Agricultural Engineering and Master of Technology in SWCE from CAET, OUAT, Bhubaneswar. She has qualified for the ICAR (SRF) and is receiving the OUAT merit scholarship. Her research interests include hydrological modelling, groundwater modelling, and advanced GIS-RS. She has published several research papers in reputable journals and participated in numerous national and international seminars, conferences, and training programs. She aspires to contribute further to advancements in SWCE and watershed management.
Er. Sanghamitra Biswal serves as a Subject Matter Specialist in Agricultural Engineering, bringing over six years of distinguished experience in extension services and research. She holds a post-graduate degree in Agricultural Engineering with a specialization in Soil and Water Engineering from PJTSAU, Hyderabad. Her unwavering commitment to advancing the field of Agricultural Engineering is reflected in her impactful contributions to extension activities and research initiatives. With a passion for fostering knowledge and innovation, she continues to inspire her colleagues and drive excellence in education, research, and outreach.
1. Introduction to Soil and Water Conservation ..........................................1
2. Soil Erosion: Causes, Effects, and Control .............................................9
3. Water Management in Agriculture ........................................................25
4. Soil Conservation Practices and Techniques .........................................43
5. Watershed Management ........................................................................65
6. Rainwater Harvesting and Utilization ...................................................87
7. Erosion Control Structures and Design .................................................99
8. Soil Fertility and Conservation ...........................................................113
9. Integrated Water Resources Management ...........................................129
10. Conservation Tillage Systems .............................................................139
11. Urban Water Management ...................................................................155
12. Sediment Transport and Deposition ....................................................173
13. Sustainable Agriculture Practices for Soil and Water Conservation .......................................................................................185
14. Soil and Water Conservation Education and Outreach .......................195
15. Emerging Technologies in Soil and Water Conservation ....................213
