Title | Matric potential of clay loam soils on arid rangeland in southern New Mexico |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 1989 |
Authors | Herbel C.H., Gibbens, Robert P. |
Journal | Journal of Range Management |
Volume | 42 |
Pagination | 386-392 |
Date Published | September 1, 198 |
Keywords | precipitation, probabilities, soil matric potential, soil texture |
Abstract | The matric potential of soil water is presented for 6 clay loam sites on floodplains of arid rangelands. Gypsum resistance blocks impregnated with plaster of paris were placed at 6 soil depths to 122 cm. At 4 locations, blocks were placed inside and outside a buried sheet metal cylinder so that estimates could be obtained of matric potential due to precipitation and due to precipitation plus run-in. The average annual precipitation during the approximate 20-year study period was 242 mm, slightly above the long-time average. Haplargids dominated by tobosa [Hilaria mutica (Buckl.)Benth.] had a greater probability of the matric potential≥-1.5 MPa (wet soil) than the Calciorthids dominated by burrograss (Scleropogon brevifolius Phil.). The probability of matric potential≥-1.5 MPa (wet soil) was as great or greater in winter as during the summer growing season. The factors affecting matric potential were amount and nature of precipitation, amount of run-in water, soil and vegetation type, position on the landscape, and microrelief. |
URL | /files/bibliography/345.pdf |
DOI | 10.2307/3899545 |