Use of jute geo-textile : a possible means to control soil erosion in Darjeeling hills

Abstract

Degradation of soil due to erosion is considered as a serious vulnerability and threat. Soil erosion induces tremendous effects on the health and quality of soil. It not only brings down crop performance and food security, but also adversely affects the ecosystem stability, watershed stability, bio-diversity, sustainability and natural resource conservation. Darjeeling hills is the best example for impact of soil erosion on tea ecosystem. Soil losses and degradation have resulted in manifold problems for tea production, which is the mainstay of the region. Some measures have been taken at garden level, but have not proved really beneficial. Use of jute geo-textile, an eco-friendly input, for conservation of soil vis-à-vis mitigation of soil erosion is an effective and alternative tool to prevent soil from being degraded. Jute geo-textile can make fields resilient to erosion and hence maintain health and quality of soil. Jute geo-textile can also offer some collateral advantages which cannot be quantified in absolute values and may have to be seen as a means for erosion control on slopes.