Land capability classification of Mahanandi mandal, Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh

Abstract

A reconnaissance soil survey was undertaken in Mahanandi mandal of Kurnool district, Andhra Pradesh to evaluate the land capability classification. The soil belongs to the order Inceptisols and Entisol. About ten pedons were taken from the Mahanandi mandal. Horizon-wise samples were collected from profiles and their morphological properties, soil texture and organic carbon were analyzed. Considering limitations and potentials of the soils, land capability classification was evaluated up to sub-class level and based on that a suitable land use plan has also been suggested. Pedons 1, 4, 9 and 10 were placed under capability sub-class IIs, which were good cultivable. Pedon 2 was placed under capability sub-class IIes. Pedons 7 and 8 were placed under capability sub-class IIe. Pedons 3 and 5 were placed under capability sub-class IIIe whereas Pedon 6 was placed under the capability sub-class IIIs. By using Arc GIS software these land capability sub-classes are mapped. The soils of the Mahanandi mandal revealed that soils were good to moderately cultivable lands.