Physical and hydrological characterization of three sandy millet fields in Niger

摘要: To improve methods of soil and water management for pearl millet production in the Sudano-Sahelian zone, physical hydrological data are required from representative fields. The objectives this paper to report results measurements taken fields near three Nigerien villages, compare calculated hydraulic conductivity values those measured situ. Physical properties were using standard analysis. Hydraulic was a moisture retention curve obtained situ steady-state infiltration rate. Results as follows: clay sand content about 5% 92%, respectively, only change slightly with depth. Bulk densities range 1.65 Mg m" 3 low 1.40 at depths associated termite activity. Steady state rates 6.9 x 10"5 m s" 1 8.3 s1. "Field capacity," estimated neutron probe tensiometer data, ranged 0.12 0.16 m3 m"3, corresponding pressure potential -5.0 kPa. At "field "plant available water" is linearly related function can be accurately curves excellent agreement more laborious instantaneous profile method. Physically hydrologically, these soils similar previously described Niger Senegal.