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NSSC Annual Report 2016-17

FOREWORD

The National Soil Services Center is pleased to publish its Annual Report for 2016-17 highlighting the

achievements made during the year and a few spill over activities not completed owing to its very nature –

longer time required for implementation and equally more time needed to see the results.

Considered the apex agency for providing soil and land related services in the country, the Center

continued to work on the given mandates persistently viz. (1) generation of information on soils through

production of soil maps, reports, databases & establish land capability and suitability class systems for

optimal use of the land; (2) evaluation of inherent fertility status of the soil to form a basis for fertilizer

recommendation & soil amendments – generating scientific data necessary for land users and decision

makers; (3) combating land degradation ensuring protection of the country’s limited land resources – also

to include protection of water sources for drinking, irrigation & hydropower; (4) assessment of soil nutrient

budgets nation-wide aiming further to develop an efficient integrated plant nutrient management system

and (5) exploring & harnessing beneficial microbial resources in soil for agricultural production and promote

environment-friendly plant nutrient sources & soil fertility management techniques.

With the grant of Nu. 11.965 million from Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation approved for the

project “Up-Scaling Sustainable Land Management to Combat Land Degradation and Climate Change”,

from July 2015, the Land Management Unit of the Center continued to focus on the planned activities of

the project covering 10 chiwogs in two selected gewogs (Jarey & Thangrong) of Lhuentse & Mongar

Dzongkhags. The project, scheduled to end by June 2018 is expected to effectively enhance the

productivity of land holding in the two gewogs resulting from improved management practices and crop

diversification; reduced loss of soil with adequate water & nutrients supply from the system due to change

in landforms. On conclusion of the project, some 3,500 acres of degraded forest land and mostly

vulnerable dry land will have been protected and restored through implementation of different sustainable

land management technologies.

As a synthesis of the commendable achievements of the five Units of the Center during the year, the report

attempts to highlight some of the major achievements made through sheer hard work and commitment of

the staff of the Center.

As in the past years, activities comprised both planned and ad hoc ones, all of which were successfully

implemented with the Land Management Campaigns started in 2005 featuring as a regular activity in the

Center’s annual work plan. The campaigns are carried out in different Dzongkhags every year with Land

Management Unit providing technical backstopping and more often than not, staff from other Units of the

Center are required to help when staff resources becomes a constraint. The Soil Survey Unit, in addition to

its other planned & ad-hoc activities, continued to focus on digital mapping exercise in Darla Gewog which

was started from Tsirang in the last fiscal year with the aim to ultimately produce soil maps. The Soil & Plant

Analytical Laboratory continued to provide the analytical services to the clients while Soil Microbiology Unit

focused on the activities related to green manuring and provided the technical support to Organic

Program activities. Similarly the Soil Fertility Unit implemented several fertilizer use trials, training on soil fertility

management in close coordination with the Dzongkhags.

While congratulating the staff of this Center for successfully achieving the set targets through their sheer

hard work & dedication, I would also like to acknowledge the consistent support and assistance of

individuals, agencies/organizations and stakeholders both within and outside the Ministry of Agriculture &

Forests for the success of this Center.

I hope that the information contained in this publication will serve as a useful source of information and

reference to all the readers comprising academics, development workers, researchers, students and all

those advocating rural development and/or sustainable agriculture with special interest in soil and

sustainable land management.

Tashi Delek!!!

Karma Dema Dorji

Program Director


Contents

FOREWORD .................................................................................................................................... 1 GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS.......................................................................................................... 4

1.0 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................ 5 ................................................................................................ 11

....................................................................................................................... 22

.............................................................................................................. 22

......................................................................................................................... 44

................................................................................................................ 55

ORGANOGRAM .......................................................................................................................... 54 2.0 LABORATORY SERVICES ...................................................................................................... 59

.............................................................................................. 10

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........................................................................................................... 10

................................ 10

3.0 SOIL SURVEY AND LAND EVALUATION SERVICES ............................................................. 39 .................................................................................................... 39

........................................................................................... 10

23

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4.0 SOIL FERTILITY SERVICES ..................................................................................................... 190 ........................................................................... 40

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42

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5.0 SOIL MICROBIOLOGY SERVICES ....................................................................................... 46 ........................................................................................ 46

................................ 46

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7.0 FINANCIAL PROGRESS ......................................................................................................... 55 ..................................................................................................... 57

................................................................................... 58

.................. 59


GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS

BHUSOD Bhutan Soil Databank

BTFEC Bhutan Trust Fund for Environment Conservation

Ca Calcium

CARLEP Commercial Agriculture and Resilient Livelihoods Enhancement Program

CEC Cation Exchange Capacity

CNR College of Natural Resources, RUB

DAO Dzongkhag (District) Agriculture Officer

DASA Development of Agriculture Support Activities

DGM Department of Geology & Mines, MoEA

DoA Department of Agriculture, MoAF

DoFPS Department of Forests & Park Services, MoAF

DoHS Department of Hydromet Services

EA Extension Agent

EEC European Economic Community

Fe Iron

FEFUT Farmer Extension Fertilizer Use Trial

FRMD Forest Resources Management Division, DoFPS

FYM Farm Yard Manure

GPS Global Positioning System

GYT Gewog Yargye Tshogchhung

GT Gewog Tshogdu

K Potassium

LMU Land Management Unit

LTS Long-Term Studies

masl meters above sea level

Mg Magnesium

Mn Manganese

MoAF Ministry of Agriculture & Forests, RGoB

MoEA Ministry of Economic Affairs, RGoB

N Nitrogen

Na Sodium

NFI National Forest Inventory

NH4 Ammonium

NO3 Nitrate

NSSC National Soil Services Center, DoA

PT Proficiency Testing

RGoB Royal Government of Bhutan

RNR Renewable Natural Resources

RNR-RDC Renewable Natural Resources – Regional Development Center

SFM Soil Fertility Management

SFU Soil Fertility Unit

SLM Sustainable Land Management

SMU Soil Microbiology Unit

SPAL Soil & Plant Analytical Laboratory, NSSC

SSU Soil Survey Unit, NSSC

UNCCD United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification

WEPAL Wageningen Evaluation Programs for Analytical Laboratories


1.0 INTRODUCTION

Initially started off with the infrastructure development for the laboratory in 1991-92 with

budgetary assistance from the project – Development of Agriculture Support Activities

(DASA) funded by European Economic Community (EEC), the Center, considered the

resource and referral center to provide advisory & other services related to soil & land

management. The Center with the vision “To ensure sustainable agriculture and

national food security through sustainable management of soil and land-based natural

resources” has prescribed to three missions: -

to make soil information readily available on time to make informed

decision

to work towards making Bhutan a Land Degradation Neutral country

to become a centre of excellence in providing soil services

While pursuing the ascribed vision and mission, a set of mandates has been drawn

based on which the five units of the Center aspires to function efficiently viz.

to produce the national soil map of Bhutan for various planning and

monitoring purposes

to promote integrated soil nutrient management for optimal crop

production

to provide analytical services to the farmers and other clients

to combat land degradation through promotion of SLM technologies and

approaches

to build the capacity of RNR staff on soil survey, integrated soil nutrient

management and sustainable land management

To take ownership and shoulder the responsibilities for fulfilling the above mandates, the

Center has following five different Units: -

Soil & Plant Analytical Laboratory (SPAL) – The laboratory caters to requirement for

analytical services on soil, plant, water and farm yard manure (FYM)/compost sample

analysis – analyzing some 2,500 samples each year on an average determining the

inherent nutrient/mineral contents in the samples. In soil samples, the analysis aims to

assess the inherent soil nutrient content to make balanced fertilizer recommendation

and similarly in plant samples, the nutrient content in the plant tissues is determined to

assess if there is any deficiency or toxicity of some nutrients. In water analysis, the

mineral content is looked at to assess the quality especially for irrigation. In fertilizer &

FYM samples, the nutrient content is examined to evaluate their quality in terms of

supplying the plant nutrients.

Soil Fertility Unit (SFU) was established to provide a more comprehensive soil related

services specifically to assess countrywide soil nutrient budget; establish nationwide

fertilizer program; and develop efficient integrated soil-plant nutrient management

system – the mandates to be achieved through on-farm fertilizer trials; long-term studies

on different crops; capacity building of Extension Agents (EAs) and farmers; and

investigation of soils with nutrient problems.


Land Management Unit (LMU) has been established after the World Bank (WB)/Global

Environment Facility (GEF) funded 6-year project on Sustainable Land Management

(SLM) implemented from 2006 to 2012 was terminated in order sustain the initiatives of

the project. The unit is mandated to (1) combat land degradation and bring vulnerable

land under SLM; (2) ensure sustainable agriculture and contribute to national food

security, rural livelihood improvement & environmental protection and (3) fulfill the

requirements of UNCCD as a member country. In the process of fulfilling its mandate,

the unit implements activities comprising scaling up of SLM; promotion of SLM through

campaigns; degraded land investigation; and build capacities of EAs and farmers on

various aspects of SLM with regard to sustainable agriculture, climate change and

biodiversity conservation.

Soil Survey Unit (SSU) – Established after the Bhutan Soil Survey Project (BSSP) funded by

DANIDA from 1996 to 2003, the unit provided the continuity to the services established

by the project to generate soil information in order to optimize the use of land suited for

agriculture, pasture and agro-forestry and ultimately work towards producing the

national soil maps for various agricultural purposes. While seeking to accomplish the

above mandates, the unit carries out soil survey & land evaluation to generate soil

information for making informed decision in terms of planning and monitoring of land-

based natural resources; investigates problematic sites to assess and recommend

appropriate mitigating measures, including change in land use, to address the soil

problems; conducts land feasibility studies to resettle the farmers from marginal land to

productive land under the National Rehabilitation Program; and provides

Geographical Information System (GIS) and remote sensing services for digitizing data

and producing digital soil or other maps.

Soil Microbiology Unit (SMU) – In order to complement the conventional soil fertility

practices, the unit was established in late 1990s to harness the beneficial microbial

resources to ensure sustainable agriculture and develop and promote organic soil

amendments to improve soil fertility. In pursuing the mandates, the unit aims to build an

inventory of beneficial microbes to better understand their dynamics, spatial distribution

and diversity; develop organic soil amendments to improve both soil fertility and soil

quality for improved crop production; develop bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides to

promote organic agriculture in the country; and build capacities of EAs and farmers on

organic soil amendments to improve soil fertility and crop production.

In addition to the mandate of coordinating research and extension activities

associated with soil and land development, the Center is also the resource and referral

centre for all soil and land management related issues. The centre has been

designated as the focal agency for the United Nations Convention to Combat

Desertification (UNCCD) focusing mainly on land degradation. It is also the focal point

for the Asian Soil Partnership (ASP) under the umbrella of the FAO's Global Soil

Partnership (GSP). As the focal point to these international institutions, the Centre had

obligations to fulfill several requirements and obligations during the course of the

reporting period.

In view the focus of 11th Five Year Plan placed on improvement of soil fertility

management (SFM) practices in various crops, characterization of soils, providing

analytical services and improvement and strengthening of soil database/information,

the Center’s efforts and activities have been aligned accordingly. The promotion of

sustainable land management practices, capacity building, and mainstreaming


Sustainable Land Management (SLM) continued to receive priority as in the past years

and thus, this report, provides the reader a comprehensive picture of achievements of

the Centre with the details on the implementation of the planned and ad-hoc activities

during the year.

While working within the established framework of operation, the Center continued to

provide various soils and land related services through its five units in close coordination

with the Agriculture Research & Development Centers (ARDCs) & the Dzongkhags.

ORGANOGRAM

2.0 LABORATORY SERVICES

2.1 Sample Analyses Output

During the year, SPAL analyzed a total of 2,519 samples, out of which, 2,385 were

samples of soil, 73 plants and 61 water samples exceeding the set target 2,000 to 2,500

samples. All the samples received at the laboratory have been analyzed and the results

delivered to the concerned clients. The analytical data generated by the laboratory

continues to be used extensively for soil fertility management, National Forest Inventory,

Program Director

Soil & Plant Analytical

Laboratory

Specialist (1)

Assistant Chemist (1)

Sr. Lab. Technician (3)

Lab. Assistant (4)

Lab. Attendant (2)

Soil Survey Unit

Dy. Chief SS & LE Officer (1)

Sr. SS & LE Officer (1)

SS & LE Officer (2)

Sr. SS & LE Supervisor (2)

SS & LE Supervisor (1)

GIS Associate (1)

Field Assistant (1)

Soil Fertility Unit

Principal SF & PN Officer (1)

Sr. SF & PN Supervisor (1)

SF & PN Supervisor (2)

Extension Supervisor (2)

Soil Microbiology

Unit

Dy. Chief Lab. Officer (1)

Laboratory Officer (1)

Asstt. Lab. Technician (1)

Land Management

Unit

Principal Land Management

Officer (1)

Sr. Agriculture Officer (1)

Land Management

Officer (1)

Land Management Supervisor (1)

Admin & Accounts

Admin Officer (1)

Admin Assistant (1)

Accounts Assistant (1)

Driver (4)

Messenger (1)

Sweeper (1)

Night Guard (1)


soil classification and land resource mapping activities. The details of the samples

received by type and clients are detailed in the ensuing sections.

2.1.1 Soil Samples

Of the 2,519 samples received during the period, 95% comprised soil samples. The figure

below (Figure 1) illustrates the quantity of soil samples received Dzongkhag-wise for

analysis.

Figure1: Number of Soil Samples Analyzed – Dzongkhag-wise

The above graph

shows the number of

soil samples submitted

by different

Dzongkhags, and from

the graph, it can be

observed that

Chhukha Dzongkhag

had submitted the

highest number of

samples (873). The

second highest

sample flow

originated from

Thimphu Dzongkhag

(499 samples). With

343 samples

submitted during the year, Sarpang Dzongkhag stands third. The graph also includes 16

samples received from Wageningen Evaluation Programs for Analytical Laboratories

(WEPAL) in The Netherlands on a quarterly basis as a part of proficiency testing program

to improve and maintain the quality of the laboratory.

873

13

132 105

499

17

169

046

343

916 35 31 9 16

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

1000

Dzongkhag Total

Sl. No. Month Sample Receipt

Soil Plant Water

1 July’16 69 4 25

2 August’16 140 8 8

3 September’16 140 49 10

4 October’16 151 0 5

5 November’16 267 0 0

6 December’16 25 4 0

7 January’17 193 0 3

8 February’17 342 0 0

9 March’17 527 4 0

10 April’17 93 0 5

11 May’17 218 0 5

12 June’17 220 4 0

Table 1: Monthly Inflow of Samples for Analysis


If the inflow of samples is further studied in detail, it reveals that the highest inflow of

samples was in the month of March 2017 with 527 soil samples. The lowest number of soil

samples received was 25 samples in December 2016 as illustrated in Figure 2. Whereas

the highest 49 plant samples were receipted in the month of September and the lowest

of 4 plant samples sent by Wageningen Evaluation Programs for Analytical Laboratories

(WEPAL) – received on a quarterly basis.

2.1.2 Plant Samples

During the reporting period, a total of 73 plant samples were received as shown in

Table 1 representing about 3% of the total samples received and analyzed in the

laboratory. The plant sample inflow was significantly impacted by the staff replacement

issue. The major client was the Forest Resources Management Division (FRMD) for their

National Forest Inventory (NFI) who submitted 63 samples for analysis. The samples

received were analyzed only to determine dry matter and the analysis did not include

other routine parameters owing to human resource constraint. The bulk of the plant

samples were submitted for NFI as they had collected shrubs, herbs, and litter for the

carbon stock assessment of the forests. The other 16 plant samples are a part of

International Plant Exchange (IPE) program sent by Wageningen Evaluation Programs

for Analytical Laboratories (WEPAL) on a quarterly basis. The detailed monthly sample

inflow is shown in below (Table 1): -

Table 2: Monthly Plant Sample Flow

2.1.3 Water Sample

During the fiscal year, 61 water samples were received and analyzed as shown in Table

2. It constituted only 2% of the total samples received during the year for analysis.

Amongst the Dzongkhags, Tsirang had submitted the highest water sample (30) followed

by Samtse with 20 samples and Zhemgang having submitted 8 samples. The water

samples have been mainly submitted and analyzed to check if the water is suitable for

irrigation purpose.

Sl. No.

Dzongkhag Clients Monthly Water Sample Received

Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Total

1 Samtse B. Pradhan 20 20

2 Tsirang Karma Dema 5 10 5 5 5 30

3 Zhemgang CNR 8 8

4 Thimphu HQRBG 1 1

5 Dagana NPPC 2 2 Total 25 8 10 5 3 5 5 61

Table 3: Monthly Water Samples Flow

Sl. No.

Dzongkhag Clients Monthly Plant Sample Received Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Jun Total

1 Gasa NFI/FRMD 8 8 2 Wangdue NFI/FRMD 49 49 3 WEPAL WAU 4 4 4 4 16 Total 4 8 49 4 4 4 73


2.2 International Soil Analytical Exchange Program – Report from WEPAL

The laboratory (SPAL) is an active participant of the WEPAL since 1992 which is leading

organization under Wageningen Agriculture University in the Netherlands for

conducting proficiency testing (PT) program in the field of plants, soils, sediments and

organic wastes with 500+ participating laboratories from around the globe.

A set of four samples dispatched quarterly (12 samples in all) by the International Soil

Exchange Program has been received during the period for analysis. The results once

compiled were submitted to WEPAL for evaluation of SPAL’s performance for the

quarter. Fifteen parameters viz. total- Nitrogen, available –K, NH4-N, organic carbon, pH,

phosphorus, CEC and exchangeable bases are included. The specialized statistical

analysis conducted by WEPAL reveals an overall accuracy of 81.8 % – a slight decrease

of 6.27% in comparison to the last reported year.

Similarly, SPAL also received 16 plant samples from the exchange program on a

quarterly basis for the analysis of nine parameters viz. N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, Zn, and

Na. Because of the staff replacement issue, SPAL this year could not analyze the plant

samples for the international Plant exchange program.

3.0 SOIL SURVEY AND LAND EVALUATION SERVICES

3.1 Digital Soil Surveys

During the fiscal year, a number of soil survey fieldwork was conducted in various

Dzongkhags with the objectives of: -

Collecting the baseline information about genesis and composition of soil

to produce regional and national reconnaissance soil map by 2021. It will

form the basis for planned land use and resource management.

Introducing SSU staff to the procedures and methods for digital soil surveys

covering large areas.

Providing additional data for the development of a national soil

classification, and land evaluation systems.

3.1.1 DSM at Darla and Bongo

The reconnaissance soil survey at Darla and Bongo in Chukha Dzongkhag, which was

initiated in the previous financial year, was continued. The GIS software SAGA and

statistical package – conditioned Latin Hypercube sampling tool was used to generate

survey points using environment covariates viz. elevation, slope aspect, Terrace Wetness

Index (TWI), geology, land use etc. Of 100 generated main sampling points the

collection of field data from 29 points were completed during 2015-16. The survey of 48

points was wrapped up in current fiscal year. The remaining 23 points had to be

discarded since there was no access to the site and/or the target points fell on

complete rock out-crop.

Based on the geomorphic features or landforms, a pair sample was done adjacent to

each main point (within 100m radius) to capture local variation.


Table 4: Sampling Points Details

The targeted area of 7,206.68 ha was

accomplished with the collection of

information from 154 sampling points

including paired samples. The DSM of the

sites at Darla gewog was carried out with the

actual fieldwork following the main sampling

points generated to study the geomorphic

features of the site. A technical soil survey

report describing the major soil types and

their distribution will be compiled. The report

will not be completed until the whole survey

and laboratory analysis report is made

available by laboratory (SPAL).

3.2 Reconnaissance Soil Survey in Chukha, Gasa, Punakha, Wangduephodrang,

Haa and Dagana.

According to the approved work plan of the Unit (SSU) in collaboration with the Land

Development Department (LDD) of Thailand, a target is set to produce a National Soil

Map by 2021. Due to time, capital and resource constraints, mapping of the arable

land is prioritized in the current plan period. The map bearing soil information from

agriculture land would serve as the baseline for the purpose of proper land use

planning and resource management in near future. Furthermore, it can be useful in

farm planning, which includes land uses, cropping system, application of manures and

fertilizers, tillage practices, water management. The work is planned in six phases to be

completed in six years (2015-21). The 3rd phase of the project which was implemented

during the current fiscal year aimed at collecting the soil survey field data from six

Dzongkhags which was successfully completed. LDD assisted in generating geoform

maps and sampling points for the survey areas. A total of 35 survey points in different

locations of the six Dzongkhags were generated as detailed below: -

Sl. No. Dzongkhag No. of Points

1 Chukha 11

2 Gasa 2

3 Punakha 2

4 Wangduephodrang 9

5 Haa 7

6 Dagana 4

Total 35

Table 5: Number of Sampling Points in Six Dzongkhags

Fiscal Year Main Sample

Point

Pair Sample

Point

Total

Points

2015-16 29 29 58

2016-17 48 48 96

Total 77 77 154


The site information around the points like vegetation, geology, topography, slope,

elevation and surface cover were recorded as these are ultimate physical factors in soil

formation. Profile pit descriptions were done in detail to give the full account of the site.

All the detailed descriptions of the soils were done in purpose-dug pit. The main horizons

of all of the profiles were described in detail and samples collected for chemical

analyses.

Selected footpaths and land use boundary were traversed and logged in as tracks with

the help of GPS unit. Similarly, some infrastructures within the survey sites were also

logged in as waypoints. These data were collected to help locate the site during the

course of map compilation. A technical soil survey report describing the major soil types

and their distribution will be compiled at the end of the project in 2021. Once the

survey, currently being undertaken is completed, a detailed national soil map will be

compiled using a scale of 1:100,000 to give a clear picture of the soil types and their

distribution. Furthermore, a land suitability map will be generated at later stage to

indicate suitable areas for establishing particular cereal and horticulture crops.

All the attributes data will be digitized as layers and stored in digital format in Unit’s GIS

system. The soil data (both physical and chemical) will be punched into BHUSOD

(Bhutan Soil Databank) and will be made available on request.

3.3 Feasibility study for resettlement of farmers for the National Rehabilitation

Project (NRP)

Since soil is a critical component of any successful agricultural venture, NSSC has been

one of the key stakeholders to conduct feasibility study for resettlement of farmers for

the NRP. Unlike NRP, now

User Right Certificate (URC)

program is initiated under

the command of His

Majesty the King with the

objective to identify

appropriate state land to

subsequently allot on URC

to unemployed youths in

the country. The Unit in

association with other

relevant agencies took

part in feasibility study in

four eastern Dzongkhags

(Mongar, Trashigang,

Trashiyangtse and

Pemagatshel). The study covered different parameters viz. soil suitability, drinking water

and irrigation, distance from the nearest road point or settlement, slope, elevation and

aspect for the assessment. Considering all the given parameters, report was produced

and submitted with findings and recommendations. The summary of the report is

presented in Table 6.


Sl.

No. Dzongkhag Gewog Place

Area

(Acres)

Slope

(Degree) Aspect Remarks

1

Mongar

Drepung Kalapang 20 13 N Not feasible

2 Mongar Chompa 9 19 W Feasible

3 Ngatshang

Nya-maed 16 14 NE Feasible

4 Surphey 4 15 N Feasible

Sub-Total 49

5

Trashigang

Yangneer Tshowoongpokto 17 9 N Feasible

6

Kanglung

Marbeng 35 10 N Feasible

7 Dekorwoong 3 11 S Feasible

8 Woong jab 6 19 SW Feasible

Sub-Total 61

9 Trashiyangtse Yangtse Khedep dung 24 18 SW Feasible

10

PemaGatshel Nanong

Geri 6 17 N Feasible

11 Rashoong 8 15 N Feasible

12 Dungme DurungRi 29 3 E Feasible

Sub-Total 43

Grand Total 177

Table 6 – Feasibility Studies – Summary

3.4 Land Conversion

Three batches of land conversion cases (26th, 27th, and 28th) were investigated in the

reporting year. Soil surveyors from the Unit were basically involved in the investigation to

make complete examination from soil’s perspective to see whether the proposed case

can be qualified for conversion (chhuzhing to Kamzhing). In 2016-17, a total of 258 cases

of requests were registered for the conversion from different Dzongkhags. Of that, only

195 cases were merited further investigation. Some cases were not considered for

investigation on grounds of non-compliance to the land conversion guidelines of the

Ministry. Likewise, there were also cases where the owner opted to keep the land

parcel as residential plot.

Out of all cases investigated, only 40 cases qualified for the conversion from soil

perspective. The result is purely based on a set of strict technical criteria that is applied

for the purpose of land conversion and land suitability evaluation assessment. The

technical reports for all the batches of the conversions were compiled and put forward

to the Land Management Committee meeting for approval. The summary of the cases

is presented in the table below (Table 7): -

Sl.

No.

Conversion

Batch No. Dzongkhags

No. of

Cases

Registered

No. of Cases

Investigated

No. of Case

Qualified

for

Conversion

1 26 Paro, Thimphu, Chukha, & Samtse 93 67 12

2 27

Thimphu, Samdrup Jongkhar,

Pemagatshel, Trashiyangtse, Mongar,

Trongsa & Punakha

74 71 19

3 28 Dagana, Tsirang & Wangduephodrang 91 57 9

Total 258 195 40

Table 7: Summary of Land Conversion Cases


3.5 Investigation of soil/land with problems relating to degradation,

contamination, nutrient mining, flooding etc.

3.5.1 Assessment of Chakalum dumping site under Rubesa Gewog,

Wangduephodrang

The Punatsangchhu-I Hydroelectric Project (PHPA I, 1200MW) had acquired the muck

dumping area in Chakalum, Rubesa gewog on lease in 2010 upon the approval of

Ministry of Agriculture and Forests (MoAF) and with the consent of land owners. The land

was originally chhuzhing which was left fallow prior to leasing out to PHPA I due to

scarcity of irrigation water. The land, based on the agreement, would have to be

restored by PHPA to functional chhuzhing after the lease period is over.

Thus, as requested by Dzongkhag Administration of Wangduephodrang, soil surveyors

from the Center were involved in conducting technical assessment to see the possibility

of restoring the dumpsite to chhuzhing. Both physical and chemical assessment was

made to gather comprehensive information of the site. The detailed report of the

assessment was compiled and circulated to the stakeholders – also providing

appropriate recommendations.

3.5.2 Land degradation assessment at Wangsisina under Mewang Gewog,

Thimphu

Wangsisina under Mewang gewog of Thimphu Dzongkhag had experienced a

moderately deep seated landslide on 14th October 2016. The landslide has not only

affected the dry land but also pose a serious threat to the Tsham Khang just above the

landslide head. In the aftermath of the event, Mr. Jigme, the land owner, had

approached the Center and requested to depute a technical team to assess the

landslide to come up with appropriate recommendations. Accordingly, a team from


the Centre was fielded to execute the above task. The assessment was carried out by

the team on 18th and 19th June 2016.

Based on the field observation, the landslide was mainly triggered by incessant rainfall

and lack of proper drainage

system in place. In addition,

other factors such as unstable

geology, erodible soil, steep

slopes, and unsustainable

land management might

have also contributed in the

landslide. The complete

setting of this case of land

degradation was compiled in

a report with appropriate

recommendations to

mitigate the problem which

was circulated to all

concerned for their

information and necessary

follow up actions if required.

3.6 Investigation of problem soil in Kamzhing and orchards

3.6.1 Ramthangka apple orchard under Tsento gewog, Paro Dzongkhag

This Center was called upon to investigate the orchard soils and make appropriate

recommendations to optimize the use of the orchard land based on findings.

Accordingly, field investigation was carried out from 23rd April to 10th May 2017.

It was observed that the orchard has a soil drainage problem in some pockets probably

due to presence of ground water. To overcome the problem, cut off ditches cold be

installed. It was further observed that the tree basins were not prepared according to

the size of the tree canopy which would most probably hinder the uptake of fertilizers

applied. The top working of the trees (pruning) are also not done well to maintain the

canopy of trees for optimum fruiting. The preliminary report and recommendations

have been compiled.

3.6.2 Investigation of citrus tree at Dechencholing Palace

The Centre received instructions to investigate the orchard soils and undertake a study

on poor citrus performance at Dechencholing palace.

Accordingly, the Centre led a team to conduct a day long field visit to the site on 7th

February 2017. Several general observations on the site were made to see the overall

health of the tree growth, possible nutrient deficiency, disease, and overall

management. Composite soil samples were taken to assess fertility of the site. A soil

description was made to obtain a general indication of the soils. Several photographs

were taken to record the appearance of the trees in question.


After the detailed field observation and soil investigation, the team concluded that the

high altitude is the limiting factor for the growth of citrus in the area as there was no

problem with inherent soil fertility except for very low available K content in the top soil.

Based on the findings, it was recommended to construct green house to curb the

altitude adaptability problem and apply Muriate of Potash (MoP) – 170g to 255g for

each non-bearing tree and 425g to 595g for the bearing ones.

The detail report was produced for initiating actions to rejuvenate the declining citrus

trees.

3.7 Cartographic composition of maps, spatial analysis & printing

The operational GIS Unit of the Centre has, thus far prepared base maps, location

maps, land unit maps, soil maps, land suitability maps, soil series maps for most of the

soil surveys done in this fiscal year depending on the scale of the surveyed area.

Following are some of services delivered by the GIS Unit during the year: -

In coordination with FRMD, digitized the farm road of Sarpang Dzongkhag for

forest inventory updation

Conducted land and forest cover updation with FRMD

Prepared base maps for six eastern Dzongkhags for Commercial Agriculture and

Resilient Livelihoods Enhancement Programme (CARLEP)

Prepared base map and printed for all gewogs of Zhemgang Dzongkhag for Land

Management Campaign

Base map printed with Cadastral and Land use data

Prepared base map of Wangphu gewog to carryout soil survey

Digitized Ramthangka orchard map at Paro

Prepared covariate maps to prepare soil carbon map of Bhutan (Mean

temperature and precipitation, slope, land use and land cover map and

Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI)

3.8 Technical Guidance and Training

3.8.1 Training of Trainers (ToT)

The in-service training (TOT) on Soil and Land

Management for Extension Agents of the

Dzongkhags was organized by the Center at

Paro and Wangdue in March and April

respectively with the objective to educate

and train the trainers on various aspects of

soil and land management. The program

included important topics like soil

characterization, land evaluation, soil

sampling, and land management

technology and integrated soil fertility

management. All the technical units of the

Centre participated and contributed with


their presentation and practical training to the participating extension agents.

The training with goal set to refresh old and give new trainers the background

knowledge, skills and practical experience on soil and land management who would

then train our farming communities for sustainable crop production.

The SSU covered the important topics like soil characterization and land evaluation.

While imparting the training, the following subjects were covered in detail

encompassing both theory and practical aspects.

Soil properties

Agronomic potential of soil

Soil survey and sampling techniques

Himalayan geology and geomorphology

Basics on crop criteria

Feasibility study

At the end of the training, feedbacks were sought from all the participants using a set

of questionnaire which will be used as reference for improvement of such trainings in

future.

3.8.2 Technical guidance and training of Interns

The technical guidance and training was provided to interns who opted to do their

internship at this Centre as a part of the requirement of their institute and university.

During their attachment, they were introduced to various field of knowledge basically

related to soil survey. The program followed comprised the following: -

Brief introduction on the objectives and mandate of Soil Survey Unit (SSU)

Brief introduction to soil survey and mapping

Hands on training on use of soil survey equipments viz. GPS, Compass, Clinometer

and Soil Auger including practical work on local transect & auger description

Brief presentation on the use of GIS

Hands on training on the use of GPS and GIS for mapping

Presentation on soil monolith mounting techniques

Visit to soil museum

Besides, the soil surveyors of the Unit rendered their assistance to compile the

information for the final report on attachment to be submitted to their respective

colleges.

A total of nine interns were hosted at this Center during the year as shown in the table

(Table 8) below: -

Sl. No. No. of Interns College Field of Study

1 1 Uttrakhand Technical University, India Agriculture

2 2 Baba Farid Institute of Technology, India Agriculture

3 4 College of Natural Resources, Lobesa Agriculture

4 2 ARDC, Wengkhar Designated Regional

(ADRC) Soil Focal Staff

Table 8: Interns/attachments during the year


3.9 Training and Workshops

3.9.1 Digital Soil Organic Carbon Mapping

Two surveyors from SSU participated in Digital Soil Organic Carbon (SOC)

mapping workshop for 5 days (24-28 April 2017) at Bangkok. The workshop was

organized by Global Soil Partnership (GSP), Soil and Fertilizer Society of Thailand,

Land Development Department of Thailand (LDD) with objective to: -

Introduce participant to the development of the Asia Soil Information

System and the concept of soil legacy data and its use in Digital Soil

Mapping.

Build the capacity of the participating countries to develop SOC maps on

their own initiative in the near future which would consequently contribute

in compiling Global SOC.

With a week of tight schedule for the workshop, the participants were

introduced to various topics and provided hands on training to handle different

GIS software. The themes that were included in workshop were: -

Spatial modeling & setting and setting-up of the software environment

Soil property mapping/modeling

SOC Modeling

Regression krigging


The workshop was very relevant and useful – providing lots of information on

SOC and its significance globally. Realizing its importance, the knowledge about

SOC baselines and changes, and the detection of vulnerable hot spots for SOC

losses and gains under climate change and changed land management was

found crucial but is unfortunately limited as of now. Thus, to come up with

authentic SOC data, the concept builds on official national data sets,

therefore, a bottom-up (country-driven) approach is pursued which offers a new

quality to the future global assessment of soil indicators.

Thus, the workshop focused on capacity development of the participating

countries to develop their own country’s SOC maps. The theoretical and

practical sessions of the workshop introduced the participants to different digital

soil mapping techniques to collect data, analyze, validate, report, monitor and

integrate the SOC information. At the end of workshop, all participants were

made confident enough to handle the activities of developing SOC map and

committed to submit the output maps on given deadline.

As committed, the task to develop SOC map of Bhutan is on track. The data

compilation, and spline function has been completed successfully. The

generation of various covariates to feed the database in for SOC modeling is

also nearing completion. With confident pace of development, the product is

expected to be ready within the deadline of 31st August 2017.

4.0 SOIL FERTILITY SERVICES

4.1 Integrated Plant Nutrient Management Technologies (IPNM) on assorted

crops and fruit trees

4.1.1 IPNM on Paddy

Soil fertility management is an important part of rice production in Bhutan.

Despite the introduction of many high yielding rice varieties and new/improved

cropping sequences, the soil fertility management in paddy fields still remains

largely traditional – predominantly depending on the use of animal manure

through either tethering of animals in fields or use of Farm Yard Manure (FYM).

The use of chemical fertilizers especially in the southern region is negligible and

those farmers who use fertilizers use mostly urea only resulting in imbalance in the

nutrients supply. The inadequate nutrient supplement does not replenish

nutrients removed by the crops and thus, the low productivity of rice is directly

related to the poor soil fertility status of the soil.


Figure 7: Paddy field inspection and measurements

In view of such a scenario in the country and to improve rice productivity per

unit area, the Centre conducted numerous trials such as farmers’ extension

fertilizer use trials (FEFUT) in paddy across the country. Based on the encouraging

results in the past, the Centre up scaled the activities from FEFUT trials covering

small area to fertilizer promotion on much larger scale under the strategy of

Integrated Plant Nutrient Management (IPNM).

Figure 8: Fertilizer distribution (left) and Paddy growth with fertilizer applied

During the fiscal year, four Dzongkhags covering an area of 54.52 acre (Table 1)

were brought under IPNM technologies through use of inorganic and organic

manures. Table 9: Dzongkhag-wise paddy acreage under IPNM

Dzongkhag Gewog Area (acre)

Samtse Yoseltse 5.52

Sarpang Gakiling 25.00

Paro Shaba 15.00

Wangduephodrang Thetsho 9.00


The farmers were advised to adopt the following recommended fertilizer rates

(Table 2). The fertilizer rates were based on past FEFUT trial results and “Guide to

Fertilizer Recommendations for Major Crops - Version 2”.

Table 10: Fertilizer Application Rate Recommended for Dzongkhags

Dzongkhag Fertilizer (Kg)

Nutrient

Ratio

Suphala Urea SSP MoP

Samtse 75.00 26.00 25.00 - 24:16:12

Sarpang 50.00 47.00 25.00 - 30:12:8

Paro 50.00 52.20 50.00 - 32:16:8

Wangduephodrang - 60.00 100.00 27 28:16:16

Prior to fertilizer application farmers were given training on soil fertility, IPNM

technologies and fertilizer application methodology.

Figure 9: Mid-season monitoring

This activity continues into the next financial year and the crop cut results and

report will be published in the following year.

4.1.2 IPNM on Potato

Although farmers use both organic especially FYM and in-organic fertilizers in

potato production, there is a need for in-depth study to apply IPNM practices as

most farmers apply more fertilizers than required. Farmers are of the opinion that

applying more fertilizers will yield more. Therefore, the Centre initiated IPNM on

potatoes keeping the following objectives in view: -

- to demonstrate to farmers the difference in crop yields between the

recommended fertilizer application/soil fertility management and farmers’

practices

- study the soil health between test plots and farmers plots

.


Figure 10: Line drawing for seed & fertilizer application

Prior to potato plantation, farmers’ training on IPNM in potato was conducted to

create awareness on IPNM and its benefits amongst the farmers as done in

Phobjikha. The IPNM training was carried out from Feb-March 2017. A ten acre

plot was selected, the field was measured using GPS, soil sampling prior to start

of the trial was done to study the inherent soil nutrient content. The fertilizers

were distributed to the farmers and the fertilizer application was done under our

staff’s close supervision. The fertilizer rate recommended for IPNM in potato is

24:24:12 kg/ac.

Figure 11: Applying Fertilizer (Left) and Furrowing (Right)

The activity is still ongoing and results for crop cuts etc. will only be published in

next annual report.

4.1.3 IPNM on Citrus

Citrus is ranked on top amongst the agricultural export commodities of Bhutan both in

terms of volume and value. However, citrus cultivation practices still remain traditional

with very low yield and inferior fruit quality. Appropriate nutrient management is crucial

to optimize yield and production. Sound fertilizer recommendation follows right

fertilization rate, nutrient content, and correct application timing. Integrated plant

nutrient management recommends the use of farm yard manure (FYM) and fertilizers to

optimize yield and sustain soil health. However, from the long term studies conducted


by this Unit in Tsirang, Dagana and Sarpang, we have noted that most farmers use only

FYM and no other mineral fertilizers are applied as nutrient supplements.

Considering the importance of proper nutrient management for increasing the yield,

IPNM trial on citrus was carried out at Dekiling and Sershong gewog in Sarpang

Dzongkhag. In total 220 fruit bearing trees belonging to 5 farmers (Table 1) were selected

for the trial. The orchards were then divided into two halves with 110 trees under trial

and other half to be managed by farmers following their own practice. This was done

to compare the yield and soil nutrient status between recommended practice and

farmers’ practice. The tree age ranged from 10-12 years.

Table 11: List of the farmers for Citrus IPNM

Sl. No. Name of test

farmers Gewog

Number of trees

Recommended Practice Farmer's Practice

1 Dechen Pelden Dekiling 50 50

2 Pema Tshewang Sershong 15 15

3 Chimi Zangmo Sershong 15 15

4 Zomba Lhamo Sershong 15 15

5 Tachu Sershong 15 15

Figure 12: Preparing Fertilizer for Application (Left); Soil Sampling (Right) Prior to fertilizer application, farmers had carried out other fruit plant management

activities. The recommended rate of fertilizer used was 330:315:425 g/tree of NPK (fruit

bearing trees only). The farmers were trained on fertigation technique and were

instructed to apply fertilizers only under technical supervision from agriculture staff.


Figure 13: Basal Dose Application (Left) and Tree Tagging (RP & FP) Since the activity continues in the next year, the results will only be known at a later

stage.

4.1.4 IPNM on Onion

Since 2016 onwards, the Centre initiated IPNM trials on different vegetables on the

farmer’s field. As strongly suggested by National Vegetable Coordinator, onion was

taken up for trial. Two sites were identified at Singay gewog under Sarpang Dzongkhag

and Tshendagang gewog under Dagana Dzongkhag.

Figure 14: Weak Seedlings (Left); Healthy Seedlings (Right) The trial was initiated from December 2016 and concluded in May 2017 with activities

comprising such as pre-trial soil sampling, transplanting, fertilizer distribution &

application, mid monitoring, harvesting and crop-cut to post-trial soil sampling.


Figure 15: Pre-Trial Soil Sampling

Figure 16: Onion Seedling Transplantation

The crop cut results are presented in the graph below: -

Figure 17: Crop Cut Results The crop cut (for fresh onions) was carried out on an area of 2 x 3 meters. The crop cut

results of Dagana is encouraging with 16.66% increase in the yield with fertilizer

application. However, no significant increase in the yield was observed at the trial site in

Sarpang. This could be attributed to late transplanting of seedlings as the farmers had

to raise nursery for the second time owing to high seedling mortality at nursery stage

initially.

0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000

Sarpang

Dagana

Sarpang Dagana

Without NPK 1193 4579

With NPK 1293.33 5342

Crop Cut (Kg/Acre)


Figure 18: Onion Growth – Without NPK (Left) and With NPK (Right) In order to authenticate the results obtained during year, the trials will be continued in

the next season as well.

4.1.5 IPNM on Cardamom

The large cardamom (Amomum subulatum Roxb.) is one of the major export

commodities of our farmers. Despite its huge demand in market, very few studies have

been conducted pertaining to IPNM on cardamom. Since most of the farmers – both

illiterate and educated are in cardamom production, there is an urgent need to

develop IPNM packages for cardamom and thus, the Centre initiated IPNM trials on

cardamom from 2016-17.

The main objective of this trial is to determine the response to NPK inorganic fertilizer

and farmyard manure (FYM) application in order to maximize the yield and improve the

quality of the crop.

Figure 19: Trial frame making (left); trial field layout (right)


Two sites – one in Darla gewog of Chukha Dzongkhag and the other in Tsholingkhar gewog

of Tsirang Dzongkhag had been selected. The fields were measured using GPS and pre-

trial soil sampling was done to study the inherent soil nutrient content. Two-year old

seedlings were selected for the trial. The recommended rate of fertilizers was 16:16:32

kg/acre (NPK) for two years old seedling under rain-fed areas. The fertilizer was applied

in a circular band of 15 cm width, leaving 30 cm from the plant base and mixed

thoroughly with top 5-7 cm of the surface soil. The fertigation was done under the

supervision of Center’s staff.

Figure 20: Basal fertilizer dose application – Darla (left) & Tsholingkhar (right) Since the trial is a long-term undertaking, reporting will be done at the end of the trial.

4.2 Trainings

4.2.1 Training on Integrated Plant Nutrient Management

Numerous trainings on IPNM were conducted to increase awareness on integrated

plant nutrient management through the use of organic and inorganic fertilizer

practices. Farmers were made sensitized on concept, importance and benefits of IPNM.

Other topics included soil fertility management, composting, vermi-composting,

biological nitrogen fixation and impact of fertilizer demonstration trials. The presentation

was done using both power points and visual aids. An interactive discussion on the

traditional SFM practices followed by the farmers’ own soil management practices

were also discussed. In total 339 farmers were trained besides Dzongkhag agriculture

staffs and village local leaders. The details of the training are presented in Table 12

below: -

Table 12: Farmers trained on IPNM


4.2.2 In-service Training on Soil and Land Management

The soil sustains most living organisms with soil considered as the ultimate source of

mineral nutrients. Good management of soils ensures that mineral elements do not

become deficient or toxic to plants, and that appropriate mineral elements enter the

food chain. Soil management is important, both directly and indirectly, for crop

productivity, environmental sustainability, and human health. Because of the projected

increase in population and the consequent necessity for the intensification of food

production, the management of soils becomes increasingly important in the years to

come.

Soil is a resource whose importance has been ignored for a very long time with serious

implications. Soil is being washed away or contaminated faster than it is being

replenished and this has seriously impacted food production.

Soil and land management encompasses standards in the field of soil quality, soil

pollution and soil as a resource, including its protection, classification, definition of its

terms, sampling of soils, measurements and reporting of soil characteristics. It focuses on

soils in situ and soil materials intended for reuse in or on soils.

Considering the importance of soil and land management, the Centre organized 10

days in-service training on Soil and Land management at Paro and Wangdue.

The ultimate goal of the training is to refresh old and give new trainers the background

knowledge, skills and practical experience on soil and land management who then

trains our farming communities for sustainable crop production.

The training was conducted with the sole objective of educating and training the

trainers on various aspects of soil and land management including soil characterization,

land evaluation, soil sampling, land management technology and soil fertility

management. On completion of TOT and mentoring process, trainer candidates should

be able to guide and train our farming communities on (1) importance and use of

organic soil amendments, simple and effective composting technology, soil fertility

management through use of different green manuring crops; (2) soil sampling

technique with regard to different landscape/crops, sample submission procedure; and

(3) understanding soil fertility concepts and factors that make a soil fertile and

productive, understanding how to promote Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM)

to farmers and other stakeholders, identifying fertilizer deficiency symptoms and using

corrective measures, calculating fertilizer rates so that our farmers use correct amount

of fertilizers.

Initially 20 Extension officials (10 from each Dzongkhag) from Thimphu and Paro

Dzongkhag were invited for the ToT. However there were additional participants from

Wangdue, Royal Project in Punakha, RNR soil focal persons and ARDC Bajo officials also

attended in the 5 days in-service training.

This intensive In-service training focused on measuring and improving soil health through

holistic and adaptive soil management. The target audience was professionals working

directly with our farming communities related to agricultural or urban soil management


issues. Participants learned about soil health principles, soil result analysis, soil result

interpretation and reporting, common and simple land management technologies,

land degradation types, causes and impacts, soil characterization, agronomic

potential of land, soil properties and Himalayan geology and geomorphology from

resource persons.

4.3 Capacity Building – Training, Meeting & Study Visit

Tashi Uden participated at Regional level expert consultation meeting on Best

practices of IPNS in the region to identify practices that can be replicated and also

identify challenges and areas for future work on IPNM. The meeting was held at

Dhaka from 9-10th April 2017.

Tshering Pem participated training Program on Agriculture Project Management at

Coonor, Tamil Nadu. India from 1st February – 15th March, 2017. The main objective

of the training was to study the agriculture project management system, enhancing

production with minimum inputs.

Suraj Chhetri participated in study tour in India to study different organic fertilizers

and pesticides and explore the possibility of importing organic fertilizers and

pesticides to Bhutan.

4.4 Soil Data Interpretation and Fertilizer Recommendation

As part of its mandate, the SFU continued to provide the service of interpreting soil

laboratory analytical data for all stakeholders, based on which appropriate fertilizer

applications were recommended.

5.0 SOIL MICROBIOLOGY SERVICES

The Soil Microbiology Unit with one of its three staff fully devoted to responsibilities at the

laboratory (SPAL), the other two staff focused on activities related to soil fertility, organic

program & land management.

6.1 Monitoring & Evaluation of SLM Activities at Jarey Gewog, Lhuentse

According to the work plan for the Bhutan Trust Fund for Environment Conservation

(BTFEC) funded project for the fiscal year, this activity was incorporated with the

following objectives: -

to monitor the SLM progress in selected chiwogs

to conduct monitoring and evaluation exercises

to distribute the farm tools (crowbar) to the Jarey gewog SLM adopters

In the last fiscal year, simple farm tools consisting of spade and pickaxe each was

distributed to the SLM adopters comprising 144 households (HHs) of Jarey gewog. During

the current year, a crowbar and hammer each was to be provided. However, owing to


limited budget, hammer could not be supplied. Crowbars for the supply was procured

based on the Mongar Dzongkhag have approved quoted rates for the fiscal year. A

private single cabin Bolero was hired from Mongar for delivering them to Jarey gewog

Centre. Owing to the incessant rainfall in last few weeks, most of the roads leading to

the chiwogs were blocked in most of the places. The tools for the Yabi Zangkhar chiwog

was reached to the point of block point at Jarey Gompa hiring a private Bolero and for

the rest of the chiwogs, tools were distributed from the gewog centers. Farmers were

satisfied with the tool distributed (29mm –TATA crowbars). Farmers planned to start the

stone bunding activity after completion of crop harvest. At the time of the visit, both the

stone bunds and grass hedgerows were not visible because of the standing crop of

maize in fields.

Figure 21: Loading crowbars Figure 22: Farmers with distributed crowbar

6.1.1 Landslide stabilization During the past financial year, landslide stabilization works were carried out at Yumchey

and at Nganey based on the approved work plan with funds from BTFEC. Bamboos,

Erythrina species, broom grass, Napier slips and hard wood cuttings were planted in the

landslide sites where eight houses had been damaged in Yumchey. According to the

farmers, all the plantations were thriving well and the site appeared to be stabilizing.

However, the rainfall for

a week in October 2016

washed all the planted

material to the stream

enlarging the landslide

area further and the

stabilization works

appears to be not

possible until gabion

walls are constructed.

The steep slope of the

landslide area even

restricts the movement

of the farmers and

cattle.

The landslide

stabilization work carried out at Nganey chiwog is also found in poor status with most of


the seedlings and cuttings planted at the site not surviving except few Jatropha

cuttings. Farmers attribute the poor survival rate of the plants and cuttings to the fact

that plantation work was carried out during sunny days and extreme heat with little or

no rain. Furthermore, small rills and gullies have started appearing around the site and

could trigger landslides in near future if not controlled at the initial stage. Therefore,

additional plantation work is urgently required in the planting season.

6.1.2 Contour stone bunds

At the time of the field visit, the fields were still covered by maize standing crops and

stumps and thus, stone

bunds were not clearly

visible. Farmers would

resume the stone

activities right after the

harvest of paddy and

maize crops. For the

majority of farmers, the

contour line marking

was done last year and

only need to pile the

stone on the existing line

this year. With the given

tools, farmers assured

that they will leave no

stone unturned in their

efforts to implement the

planned SLM activities in

the area. Farmers were

informed that the

payment of cash

incentives will only be made in March 2017 after the stone bund construction is

completed and prior to sowing of maize in February –March 2017. Farmers who opted

not to adopt SLM initially (during the Chiwog Planning Exercise during 2015-16) were

informed of the availability of cash incentives to them if bunds were constructed.

However, farm tools cannot be supplied to the new SLM adopters due to budget

constraints.

6.1.3 Napier Hedgerows

Amongst the SLM

interventions adopted

at the gewog,

establishment of

hedgerows using Napier

grass slip was a

common feature in the

gewog except for Yabi &

Zangkhar chiwogs.


Hedges could be seen throughout the chiwogs fields were protected from cattle

because of the standing crop of maize in the fields. However, once the maize is

harvested, farmers will let their cattle to graze freely in the maize fields – cattle causing

damage to the hedges in the absence of other foraging materials in the fields. The

hedges will also be trampled and damaged to some extent during digging and

ploughing of the fields. Farmers revealed that they have harvested slips 2-3 times in this

planting season and realizing the economic benefits; they have been encouraged to

up-scale in the next season. Some farmers have saved the hedges for the extraction of

slips in the next season for sale to the project as was done last year. As farmers in

Yabi/Zangkhar chiwog were occupied with electric fencing and major stone bund

establishment, hedgerow promotion could be not carried out during 2015-16. As

requested by Tshogpa during the GYT session, the hedgerow establishment to the

following year. Hence, instead of full scale activity, a small demonstration plot was

established at Zangkhar village to check the survival rate and performance. To-date

the owner of the plot has harvested twice and the hedges are intact and thriving well.

However, besides browsing and trampling by cattle in winter months, the greatest fear

is that the hedges could be damaged by frost. If the hedge survives in winter, farmers

will be adopting the Napier hedgerows establishment in this coming summer season

throughout the chiwog.

It has been generally observed that: -

Communities of Jarey Gewog are experiencing the effects of global climate

change. Dry spell over mid-May to June end had resulted in poor yield in maize

and low survival rates of planted seedling and cuttings in landslide stabilization

sites. The incessant rain fall in early October had resulted in landslips in Yumchey,

road blocks in all chiwogs and the formation of gullies along the farm roads

throughout the region.

Survival rates of Napier hedgerows were satisfactory and the bunds formations

are visible especially in the SLM sites established in year 2013-14.

Napier grasses were harvested 2-4 times in a year depending on the sites

(altitude & soil fertility).

Farmers were even able to generate cash income from the sale of Napier slips

and are coming forward to assure the Napier slip supply in the coming season.

Farmers sincerely appreciated the support on supply of simple farm tools and the

incentives provided in stone bund development.

Generally throughout the gewog, the soil depth is poor and shallow and is very

much vulnerable to soil erosion and landslips.

The non-SLM adopters are regretting for not being able to participate in 2015-16

SLM planning exercises and are not eligible for farm tools support.

Evidence of successful SLM interventions can be seen throughout the chiwogs

(contour stone bunds and Napier grass hedgerows).

Labour shortages and defunct irrigation facilities have resulted in fallowing of

paddy fields especially in Nganey and Ladrong chiwogs.


Figure 26: Fallow terraced land at Nganey

6.2 Study Visit to Thailand

With the financial support from Bhutan Trust Fund for Environmental Conservation

(BTFEC), the Centre organized a week-long study visit to Land Development

Department (LDD) in Bangkok for a 14-member delegation comprising Gups,

Administrative Officers, EAs based at the two gewogs – Jarey under Lhuentse

Dzongkhag and Thangrong under Mongar Dzongkhag (both pilot gewogs for the BTFEC

funded project on SLM). The delegation also included technical staff from the Center

directly associated with the implementation of the project. The objectives of sending

the group was to: -

expose the members of the group on various SLM technologies that are being

employed to combat land degradation in Thailand,

share Bhutan’s experiences and lessons on addressing land degradation problems

with the Thai counterparts,

help the members gain additional knowledge and experiences, and build

confidence to assist in implementing the project activities effectively & efficiently,

The members of the group, with diverse backgrounds, claimed the visit to be “an eye-

opening experience” and recommends the availability of up to-date information on

soil, land and land use, and other natural resources readily for working towards

sustained use of natural resources; realizing the cost of land degradation through the

visit to Khao Cha-Ngum Royal Study Centre, endorses the benefits of SLM technologies;

advocates the use of appropriate farming and SLM technologies as an answer to

addressing socio-economic issues such as, food insecurity and rural poverty, rural-urban

migration, youth related problems; and advocates the adoption of adaptive

agriculture practices as a key answer to build resilience for climate change

discouraging mono-cropping amongst the farmers.


6.3 Terracing in Zaminaand and Bachu Chiwogs under Khatoed Gewog in Gasa

With the Dzongkhag Agriculture office in Gasa seeking technical support to carry out

terracing in Zaminaand and Bachu chiwogs under Khatoed gewog, the Centre was

instructed by the Department to render technical support. Accordingly, a team from

Land Management Unit (LMU) visited the identified fields to carry out feasibility study

and provide practical guidance.

Seven fields/areas belonging to seven households had been identified and registered

to be terraced. A meeting was convened by the Assistant Dzongkhag Agriculture Officer

(ADAO) and Gewog Agriculture Extension Officer (GAEO) in the presence of Gup, NSSC

staff and the registered farmers in order to draw an agreement to prevent disputes that

may arise in future. In the midst of the discussions, farmers pointed out that they were

encouraged by the Hon’ble Minister of Agriculture & Forests to opt for terracing by

Lyonpo Yeshi Dorji, the Minister for Agriculture and Forest, for which the Dzongkhag

Agriculture Office and Gewog Administration proceeded further to hire machines and

other necessities. The farmers despite of having limited knowledge about land

terracing, shared their keen interest to convert some part of their land to terraces so

that they can grow paddy. During the meeting, NSSC team’s presence during actual

terracing was highlighted to ensuring smooth and desired quality of the work.

Accompanied by the GAEO and chiwog Tshogpa, the NSSC team visited all the

identified fields. The identified fields are located at an altitude range of 2,251 to 2,459

masl with slope gradient ranging from 1° to 24°.

Different landform segments of the field were determined by considering its

topographic features where terracing was planned. After delineating the different

segments, the slope gradient (in degrees) of the segments was measured by using a

clinometer followed by setting up of recommended contour intervals.

Figure 27: Making an "A" frame… Figure 28: Demarcating contours…


Farmers, on their own initiative had tested paddy production on a small patch of land

and found that yield was reasonable. However, crop loss due to birds feeding on the

paddy was high considering the small area of cultivation. Therefore, they reasoned that

if cultivated on wider area, the crop loss would be minimized and the dependence on

rice import would also be reduced to some extent.

The Dzongkhag Agriculture Office has agreed to apprise Hon’ble Lyonpo for securing the

required fund and also arrange allotment of an earth moving machine for terracing.

NSSC, as agreed is ever ready to provide the technical assistance when called upon.

6.4 Participation in Global Symposium on Soil Organic Carbon – Unlocking the

potential of SOC in mitigating and adapting climate change

Soil has the largest terrestrial carbon pool and plays a key role in the global carbon

cycle. Globally, the soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks amount to an estimated 1,500 ±

230 GtC in the first meter of soil, which is nearly twice as much as atmospheric carbon

(828 GtC as CO2). After the burning of fossil fuels, land use and land cover change is the

largest anthropogenic source of carbon into the atmosphere and within agriculture,

soils have been a global net source of GHGs. SOC stocks in the upper soil layers (800

GtC in 0-40 cm) are especially sensitive and responsive to such changes in land use

and management, which provides an opportunity to influence the amount of CO2 in

the atmosphere. This can be achieved by maintaining existing soil carbon stocks (of

particular importance in soils with high SOC content), or by soil carbon sequestration.

However, large-scale baseline and trend assessments of SOC are still inaccurate and

many of the factors influencing SOC quality and quantity in different parts of the world,

as affected by climate change and measures to enhance SOC, are insufficiently

investigated and well understood. Further, reporting on the status and trends of SOC

based on measurements is a challenging task which needs to be tackled through

harmonized methodologies, the use of standardized sampling and modeling

techniques, harnessing innovative solutions to data collection and sharing, and

considering different field practices implemented by farmers at different scales.

Initiatives aimed at improving information on the status of SOC can constitute a unique

option to reinforce the current IPCC assessments and for reporting to the United Nations

Figure 30: Bushy land to be terraced… Figure 29: Setting contour intervals…


Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the United Nations Convention

to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and SDG 15.3.

In this context, the FAO along with other co-organizers organized a 3 day Global

Symposium on SOC at the FAO Head Office in Rome from 21st to 23rd March 2017 to

share new knowledge and information and also to deliberate on challenges faced

currently with regard to SOC mapping, verification and reporting (MRV). As such, the

Symposium specifically focused on the following three major themes: i) measuring,

mapping and reporting changes in SOC, ii) fostering SOC sequestration for climate

change adaptation and mitigation and land degradation neutrality, and iii)

maintaining/restoring SOC stocks in vulnerable hotspots. The three-day Global

Symposium on SOC was attended by close to 500 scientists from around the world.

Bhutan was represented at the symposium by the Program Director and Principal Land

Management Officer of the Centre.

The overall aim of the symposium was to review the role of soils and SOC in relation to

climate change, sustainable development, and building scientific evidence that could

be assessed in the regular IPCC Assessment Reports, starting with the AR6 report and

also for reporting to UNFCCC, UNCCD and on the SDGs.

The specific objectives of the symposium were to:

1. Examine the current scientific and technical understanding of the role of soils

and SOC in the climate system for carbon sequestration and climate

adaptation;

2. Review the potential and limitations of SOC management to contribute to

climate change mitigation and adaptation, addressing land degradation, and

meeting the sustainable development goals;

3. Review current knowledge on land and soil management impacts on SOC (and

SOC stabilization and destabilization mechanisms), including identification of

practices that increase SOC;

4. Enable and strengthen the provision of knowledge on SOC measurement,

modeling and management, and the inter-linkages with land degradation and

climate change to inform upcoming IPCC assessment reports and reports to

initiatives addressing land degradation;

5. Identify knowledge gaps and explore opportunities for collaborative research;

6. Identify policy options for relevant soil and SOC priorities to encourage the

adoption of practices that enhance SOC sequestration and stabilization under

national climate change agendas.

The main output of the symposium was the production of the scientific document

highlighting the role of soils and SOC management in meeting the climate change and

sustainable development agendas that could be assessed by IPCC in its regular reports,

starting with SR2, the refinement of the inventory guidelines, and AR6, as well as

reporting to UNFCCC, UNCCD and the SDGs.

The document is expected to present an overview of the state-of-the-art in SOC

monitoring and reporting, measures to maintain and enhance SOC, and

recommendations for managing SOC in agro-ecosystems of special interest (carbon

rich soils, grasslands and livestock production systems, and dry lands).


Specifically, the symposium outcomes should provide crucial information that could

contribute to:

The refinement of methodologies for reporting on SOC as outlined in Volume 4

(Agriculture, Forestry and other Land Use) of the Outline of the Methodology

Report(s) to refine the 2006 IPCC Guidelines for National Greenhouse Gas

Inventories which was adopted by decision IPCC-XLIV/L.3 during the 44th Session

of the IPCC;

The Special Report on Climate Change, Desertification, Land Degradation,

Sustainable

Land Management, Food Security and Greenhouse Gas Fluxes in Terrestrial

Ecosystems (SR2) agreed during the 43rd Session of the IPCC; and

The Land Degradation Neutrality Target Setting Program implemented by

UNCCD.

6.5 Hedgerow establishment & landslide stabilization at Jarey and SLM

sensitization at Jamkhar

During the monitoring visit to Jarey gewog in February 2016, the LMU team the progress a

was bit low with only 30% of the actual cultivated dry land covered by SLM

technologies i.e. either with stone bund or with Napier hedgerows. Accordingly, during

the Gewog Tshogdu (GT), the Gup had suggested that the project should aim for 50%

coverage or more. Accordingly, the team from the Center visited the gewog to fulfill the

following objectives: -

to up-scale Napier hedgerow promotion in the dry land area from 30% to

50%

to stabilize the landslide area using bio-engineering technologies or with

plantations

6.5.1 Hedgerow Establishment

The gewog administration wished to create Ladrong chiwog under Jarey gewog as the

model chiwog for Napier hedgerow establishment and Yabi/Zangkhar chiwog as a

model for stone bunding. Consequently, hoping to encourage and train farmers and

anticipating covering at least 70% of Ladrong farm land with hedgerows, practical

training was imparted to the farmers of the chiwog. However, land ownership in Ladrong

posed a challenge as patches of the land belonged to farmers of other adjacent

chiwogs viz. Yumchey, Pam and Nganey chiwogs. Thus absentee land owners within

Ladrong chiwog also hindered in planned coverage with Napier hedgerow

establishment. Nevertheless, 22 farmers out of 36 participated in the training program

covering an area of approximately 10 acres benefitting 11 households. The Gewog

livestock extension service organized similar training at Ladrong and facilitated the

increase of the area from 10 to 21 acres. Some 124,000 Napier slips costing Nu. 279,000

(including transportation) have been procured and distributed.


Similar training along with practical aspects on Napier Hedgerow establishment was

imparted to the farmers of Nganey, Jarey, Chartong, Yabi & Zangkhar villages. Napier

slips were provided for all the sites including re-planting in the gaps resulting due to non-

survival. The Napier slips were procured from Ladrong, Nganey, Metsho and from Takila.

Napier slips were also supplied to livestock farmers group at Yabi for fodder

development.

Figure 32: Napier slips being transported (left); Workforce ready with slips to plant (right)


Table 13: Napier Slip Procurement & Distribution Sl.

No. Source of Napier Slips Quantity (Slips) Beneficiary Gewogs

1 Ladrong 22,700 Ladrong & Chatrong

2 Metsho 15,000 Jabum/ Jarey

3 Nganey Gewog Office 27,100 Yabi/Zangkhar/ Yumchey

4 Takila (Tangmachu) 59,000 Ladrong/Nganey/Yabi & Zangkhar

Table 14: Area under Napier Hedgerows

Sl.

No. Village

No. of

Households

Benefitted

Area (Acre) Remarks

1 Ladrong 23 21

Planted as hedgerows

2 Nganey 16 4

3 Chatrong 7 3

4 Jarey/Jabum 15 5

5 Yumchey 7 - Planted randomly as

fodder for livestock 6 Yabi/Zangkhar 35 3

Table 15: Cost of Napier Slips & Transportation

Sl.

No. Source Quantity (Slips) Amount Remarks

1 Ladrong 22,700 45,400

2 Nganey 27,100 54,200

3 Metsho 15,000 30,000

4 Takila 59,000 118,000

5 Transportation 31,500


6.5.2 Landslide Stabilization Program

During the GT and chiwog Action Planning exercise in 2015-16, farmers from Pam,

Yumchey, Nganey and Yabi/Zangkhar had made a strong request for training on

landslide stabilization. Accordingly, during the 2016-17, landslide stabilization program

were carried out in Pam, Nganey and Yumchey chiwogs. Though the stabilization work

at Pam was successful, the program at Yumchey could be considered a total failure

because immediately after the plantations and stabilization works were completed,

there was mass landslide in the same area due to long & heavy rainfall washing down

the whole slope.

Figure 34: Plantations and check-dams at Pam


Figure 35: Landslide stabilization work (left); Active landslide (right)

For the fiscal year, landslide stabilization works had been planned at Pam & Yabi

Zangkhar chiwogs. The main factors that directly caused the landslide at the sites were

(1) poor drainage of the farm roads; (2) free cattle grazing practices; and (3) shallow

soil depth with sandy texture. For the implementation of the stabilization work, farmers in

the two affected chiwogs were asked to supply planting materials, for which the

payment would be made from the project funds. Additional bamboo rhizomes were

sourced from Domkhar besides the local supply made from Koribee.

The different plant species used in the landslide sites includes bamboo rhizome,

Erythrina, willow, Jatropha curcas cuttings and pine seedlings. Cuttings and rhizomes

were planted randomly in the landslides sites. Since the sites were dry in some places,

mulching was done with leaves and dried materials. Around six acres of land have

been covered with three acres in Yabi/Zangkhar, one acre in Pam & two acres in

Nganey.

Highlighting the importance of managing the site well, participants were asked to keep

away the cattle and also to plant more once in a year during summer to increase the

ground cover. In case, if the landslide sites is not managed, chances of the landside

affecting the whole village especially Pam chiwog is very high. The farm road leading to

Yumchey chiwog cuts at the base of Pam chiwog and the geology there being weak is

prone to landslips and mass soil movement.

Table 16: Seedlings and cuttings used for the stabilization works

Sl.

No. Planting Material Quantity Cost Remarks

1 Erythrina cuttings 212 4,240

All planted in the

landslide site at

Yabi & Pam

2 Bamboo Rhizome 147 14,700

3 Willow cuttings 460 4,600

4 Jatropha curcas 140 1,400

5 Pine saplings 403 2,015

6 Cyprus saplings 2,500 30,000 Planted at

Nganey landslide

site

7 Bamboo Rhizome 50 5,000

8 Cuttings of Erythrina &

Quercus 170 8,500


6.6 Monitoring visit of project site at Thangrong, Mongar

The scheduled visit to Thangrong occurred from 18th to 30th October 2016 to monitor

field activities and to discuss with the stakeholders planned activities for the next

quarter. The farming tools were also distributed to the beneficiaries then.

In all the three chiwogs of the gewog where hedgerows were established in the past

year, the hedges were growing well confirming the fact that the farmers have taken

good care of the hedges. But, during the visit, the second crop of maize in the fields

obscured the hedges. In all three chiwogs of Bauchiling/Panglem, Narpontang and

Changsingonpa, only a few farmers’ land remain without hedgerows left out due to

their absence from the village for some reason or the other last season. Nevertheless,

they will start working hedgerow establishment this season. The farmers have not

harvested the grasses yet and, therefore they were briefed on benefits of timely

harvesting and filling of gaps if any in the hedgerows.

Figure 36: Hedge row establishment at Bouchiling

This season, effort was made to focus on two chiwogs of Atola and Lingkhar for

hedgerow establishment for which grass slips was sourced from other chiwogs of

Thangrong. Prior to execution of the work, the farmers of the two chiwogs were trained

on sustainable land management with technical expertise from Gewog and NSSC.

Keeping in mind the keen interest shown by the farmers of the two chiwogs citing

availability of abundant stones in the field itself, some 30 farmers were trained to

construct stone bunds in their fields -

clearly educating them on the importance

of stone bunding and hedgerow

plantation to minimize surface erosion –

these interventions being given emphasis

during first two years of the project period

while the final year will be devoted to

review and documentation of the

interventions adopted by the farmers.

Figure 37: Agriculture tools distributed to Changsingonpa community


6.7 SLM Training for Staff of Trongsa Dzongkhag

Cognizant of the fact that agriculture is vitally important to poor and vulnerable people

in developing countries and in Bhutan it is in no exception since 69% of the country

population is directly dependent on agriculture farming providing direct employment

to 59.5% (MoLHR, 2010). However, Agriculture production is being challenged by

obstacles such as crop depredation by wild animals, unfavorable climatic conditions,

low productivity and land degradation. The fact that adoption of SLM technologies

adoption can diversify food sources, improve livelihood options, can contribute to

biodiversity conservation and climate change adaptation & mitigation, a training on

SLM for their staff was requested by the Dzongkhag administration of Trongsa with the

funding support of RRDCP. Thus, a training program was developed with the following

objectives: -

sensitize the Dzongkhag RNR staff on available SLM measures

develop skills of RNR staff on SLM (theory & practical)

streamline & facilitate incorporation of SLM technologies in Gewog &

Dzongkhag plans for up-scaling SLM

A total of 15 participants attended in the 5-day training conducted from 19th to 23rd

June’17 highlighting the importance of managing land not only for agriculture

productivity but also weighs equally for livestock farming and sustainable forest

management. The training was imparted through lectures/presentations, screening of

short SLM movie clips, group discussions and practical work in the fields consisting of A-

Frame making & running it to demarcate contour lines; hedgerow establishment; check

dam construction; brush layering; planting of bamboo rhizomes and tree cuttings etc.

Figure 38: Making A-Frame (left); Degraded site stabilization work (right)

6.8 Soil Survey, LULC Mapping & Participatory SLM Action Planning at Wangphu,

Samdrupjongkhar

Bhutan as a member country to UNCCD has committed to join the Land Degradation

Neutrality (LDN) Program, aiming to achieve LDN by 2030 along with 80 other countries.

The LDN countries are required to set targets voluntarily based on the resources


available to them. As a small country with small population, achieving LDN would not

be as challenging as in other big and hugely populated countries. However, given its

very rugged and fragile landscapes with land degradation quite prevalent in the

country, achieving LDN in Bhutan by 2030 might be challenging but achievable if

adequate financial support to take up sustainable land management (SLM) activities to

combat land degradation in the country is provided by the government.

In pursuit of scaling up SLM activities to combat land degradation and enhance rural

livelihoods in vulnerable areas, a three year SLM Project was approved for the

Wangphu gewog under Samdrupjongkhar Dzongkhag. The three year SLM project

(January 2017 to December 2019) is funded by BTFEC. Wangphu gewog was selected

for this project based on the following reasons: i) it's one of the remotest gewogs in the

country with very limited road access and other amenities, ii) most of the people are

below or near the national poverty line, and iii) due to unsustainable land management

practices (e.g. Tseri), the gewog is vulnerable to soil erosion and other forms of land

degradation.

Wangphu gewog has five chiwogs viz: Sachhilo, Yarphu, Pangthang, Shokshi and

Wangphu with a total of about 400 households. Dry land agriculture dominates the

current land use system in the gewog covering approximately 500 acres (currently

cultivated). Most of these dry lands are located on steep slopes (up to 35°) and are

susceptible to soil erosion and other forms of land degradation. Although Tseri

cultivation is illegal in the country, it is commonly practiced in the gewog particularly on

steep slopes where cropping every year is not possible due to high risk of soil erosion.

Maize and citrus are the main crops grown in the gewog. However, other crops such as

potato, barley, ginger, cardamom, beans, and vegetables are also commonly grown

in the gewog.

However, crop production is mostly dependent on the size and quality of land owned

by each household (HH). Like in any other

gewog, landholding in Wangphu gewog is

variable. For instance, in Sachhilo chiwog, most

of the HHs have more than five acres in their

Lag Thram. But in Shokshi chiwog, majority of the

HHs own less than five acres of land on an

average – largely attributed to land

fragmentation among the family members. The

average landholding size in other chiwogs is

also not so different from Shokshi. Because of its

geographic location (with altitude ranging

from 600 to 2700 masl), Wangphu gewog is

climatically suitable for growing a variety of

crops. However, due to low soil fertility and

other problems such as pest and diseases, and

wildlife depredation, the farmers of Wangphu

gewog have not been able to optimize their

crop production. Hence, the SLM project on

LDN could be regarded as timely to help combat land degradation and improve soil

fertility to increase crop production in the gewog. The visit to the gewog was planned

with the objectives of: -

Figure 39: Location Map of Wangphu Gewog


sensitizing GT members and farmers on the details of the SLM Project on LDN,

collecting baseline information on soil, soil organic carbon (SOC), and land use

land cover (LULC) type, and

developing participatory SLM Action Plan for each chiwog of Wangphu gewog for

endorsement by GT for implementation

6.8.1 Project Site

Geographically, the gewog shares a border with Martshala gewog in the west, Gomdar

gewog in the east, and Orong gewog on the north (Fig. 4.1). It spans a total area of

about 21000 ac with altitude ranging from 600 m to 2700 m above mean sea level. With

regard to land use and land cover type, about 70% (14,660 acres) of the gewog is under

forest cover followed by 13.7% (2,888 acres) under Kamzhing, 13.9% (2,918 acres) under

shrub land, 0.2% (45 acres) under orchard, and 2.3% under other categories.

Geologically, the Gewog is largely underlain by dolomite, phyllite, limestone, and

quartzite. There are approximately 400 households in the Gewog. Although the gewog

Centre (GC) is been connected with GC road, most of its chiwogs do not have road

access. It takes approximately 2 - 6 hours on foot to reach some of its chiwogs.

6.8.2 Sensitization on SLM and SLM Project

In order to sensitize the GT members on the importance of SLM and the project, a

special GT was organized. During the GT, a couple of presentations were made

highlighting the importance and benefits of SLM, different SLM technologies and

approaches, and SLM Project on LDN followed by discussions and screening of

documentary films on past SLM activities – emphasizing on achievements, challenges

and way forward. The same exercise was repeated in each chiwog before starting the

participatory SLM Action Planning.

6.8.3 Soil Survey

A conventional soil survey method was followed to

describe and sample the soils. Instead of visually

determining the soil sampling points based on

landform, geology and land use, a grid sampling

method was used to avoid any sampling bias. A grid

of 1 x 1 KM was generated covering the whole

Gewog. A total of 60 sampling points were

generated. However, from 60 sampling sites, those

sites falling on water bodies, rock outcrops, and

settlements were not sampled. As such, a total of 39

sampling points was only considered in the survey

(refer Fig. 39). At each sampling location, a standard

soil profile pit was dug, described, and sampled

based on the genetic horizon following a standard

soil survey method. A pair of core ring samples was

collected from each genetic horizon, in addition to bulk sample, to calculate the soil

bulk density. Soil samples will be analyzed using standard laboratory methods.

6.8.4 Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) Mapping

Cadastral map from the National Land Commission Secretariat (NLCS) and LULC map

of 2010 (Land Cover Mapping Project 2010) were used as base maps to update the

Fig. 39: Location of soil sampling points


LULC map of Wangphu gewog. The actual update of the LULC map was done with the

help of Google Earth map followed by extensive ground truthing in the field. Further, a

focused group discussion was carried out in each chiwog to further update and refine

the LULC map. Using the draft LULC map, natural resource mapping was also done to

facilitate the participatory SLM Action Planning in each chiwog. Basically, farmers were

asked to locate on the map where their main land-based natural resources are mostly

situated in the chiwog. They were also asked to identify and locate vulnerable and/or

degraded land for possible interventions in the future.

6.8.5 Participatory SLM Action Planning

For the participatory SLM action planning exercise, the manual on Participatory SLM

Action Planning developed by the GEF/WB funded SLM Project (2007-2013) was

followed which advocates bottom-up and participatory planning process. Although

there are many steps to follow while planning, only key steps of the SLM planning

process were followed due to time constraint. The natural resource mapping was done

followed by identification and ranking of most important sources of livelihoods in the

chiwog. A trend analysis of these livelihood sources was also done based on the past 10-

15 years and extrapolated for another 10-15 years. This was followed by problem census

where key problems affecting the main sources of livelihoods were identified and their

root causes discerned. Possible SLM interventions were then discussed and identified to

address these challenges. Following this, a more detailed individual household SLM

planning was done, where type of SLM technology, acreage, and type of project

inputs were clearly mentioned in the plan against each household. A group or

community based SLM interventions was also included in the plan separately.

6.9 Soil Survey, LULC Mapping and Participatory SLM Action Planning

Soil survey, LULC mapping, and SLM Action planning were done simultaneously in each

chiwog. However, prior to these activities, farmers were sensitized on SLM and SLM

project through Power Point presentations and screening of SLM documentary films.

6.9.1 Soil Survey

As represented in Figure 39, a total of 39 soil profile pits were described and sampled

based on genetic horizons. A total of 10 profiles under Wangphu chiwog, 4 profiles under

Sachhilo, 8 profiles under Yarphu chiwog, 10 profiles under Pangthang chiwog, and 6

profiles under Shokshi chiwog were described and sampled. Geologically, Wangphu

Gewog is underlain by dolomite, phyllite, limestone and quartzite and as such, soils are

generally shallow in depth. The steep slopes, high stone and gravel content, and

extensive soil erosion might have further attributed to shallow soil depth. Despite high

stone and gravel content, soil textures are moderately fine with sandy loam to silty clay

loam in all the chiwogs. Overall, the soils of Wangphu gewog are well drained with no

water logging problems. However, soils are susceptible to soil erosion due to fine texture

coupled with very steep slopes and unsustainable land management practices. Figure

40 shows typical soil profiles under each chiwog.


6.9.2 LULC Mapping

Wangphu gewog spans an area of about 21,000 acres with altitude ranging from 600 m

to 2,700 masl Overall, forest cover dominates the LULC type (70%) of the Gewog

followed by shrub land (13.9%), kamzhing (13.7%), others (2.3%), and orchard (0.2%).

However, the proportion of LULC areas and types are vary from chiwog to chiwog. Since

updating of LULC map is time consuming, only the LULC maps of Sachhilo and

Pangthang chiwogs could be completed. The finalization of the LULC maps of the other

two chiwogs is underway.

Soil Profiles - Sachhilo Soil Profiles - Yarphu

Soil Profiles - Pangthang Soil Profiles - Shokshi

Soil Profiles - Serchenmo Soil Profiles - Wangphu

Figure 40: Typical soil profiles under each Chiwog of Wangphu Gewog


a) LULC Map of Sachhilo chiwog

b) LULC Map of Pangthang chiwog

6.9.3 Participatory SLM Action Planning

As described earlier, the Participatory SLM Action Planning Manual was used to

develop the SLM Action Plan for each chiwog of Wangphu Gewog. In each chiwog,

LULC type Area (ac) Area (%)

Citrus 17.34 0.34

Cliff 5.82 0.11

Forest 4586.05 88.83

Hazelnut 21.89 0.42

Kamzhing 176.44 3.42

Kamzhing abandoned 339.26 6.57

Landslide 1.91 0.04

Rocky area 12.1 0.23

Walnut 1.65 0.03

Total 5162.46 100.00

LULC type Area (ac) Area (%)

Citrus 31.17 0.89

Forest 2504.51 71.13

Hazelnut 53.38 1.52

Kamzhing 290.32 8.25

Kamzhing Abandoned 610.45 17.34

Landslide 4.15 0.12

Rockey area 17.59 0.50

Walnut 9.26 0.26

Total Area 3520.83 100.00


more than 90% of the total HHs participated in the SLM Action Planning process. The

SLM Action Planning was done in groups (i.e. men and women) to get views from both

the genders with regard to SLM.

Figure 41: SLM Action Planning at Sachhilo chiwog

Figure 42: SLM Action Planning at Yarphu chiwog

Figure 43: SLM Action Planning at Wangphu chiwog


6.9.4 Summary of SLM Action Plan of each chiwog

Figure 44: SLM Action plan of Sachhilo chiwog

Figure 45: SLM Action plan of Yarphu chiwog


Figure 46: SLM Action plan of Pangthang chiwog

Figure 47: Overall SLM Action plan of Wangphu Gewog


Table 17: Summary of other SLM Action plans for different chiwogs


6.10 Special Gewog Tshogdu

A special GT was convened at

Wangphu gewog to endorse the SLM

Action Plan of the SLM Project on LDN

on 26th May 2017. About 40 people (8

GT members, 4 representatives from

each chiwog , 3 RNR staff, 1 School

Principal, 3 representatives from

Wangphu Dratshang, and 5 NSSC staff)

participated the one day special GT.

During the GT, the SLM Action Plan for

each chiwog was presented, reviewed,

refined, and endorsed for immediate

implementation. In addition, the

incentive from the SLM Project for

adopting a particular SLM technology

was also presented during the GT for endorsement.

6.11 World Soil Day Celebration – 2016

On 5th December, Bhutan joined the global community world-wide to celebrate the

World Soil Day with the National Soil Services Centre (NSSC), DoA organizing the

celebration at the Moelamthang at

Figure 48: Special GT Participants

Figure 49: Incentives for adopting different SLM technologies Special GT Participants

http://www.nssc.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/WSD161.jpg


Damphu in Tsirang. With the theme “Soils and pulses, a symbiosis for life” the main

objective of the celebration was to highlight the importance of soil as a critical

component of the natural eco-system and as a vital contributor to the human wealth

through its contribution to food, water and energy security and as a mitigator of

biodiversity loss and climate change. 2016 being the year of pulses, the importance of

pulses as soil fertility enhancer was also highlighted.

Director, Department of Agriculture

graced the occasion as the chief guest

and opening the day’s activities strongly

emphasized on the importance of soil and

land management considering the limited

arable land in Bhutan on which about 65%

of our population still subsist. In order to

help improve our food sufficiency goals,

the importance of soil & land

management cannot be overlooked.

At the ground, there were posters, products displays and presentations from the

National Soil Services Centre, National Organic Program, Agriculture Machinery Center

and National Plant Protection Centre. Along with the communities of different gewogs,

students and staff of Tsirang Dzongkhag participated in the celebration. During the

celebration, vegetable seeds were distributed to the participating farmers and others.

About one thousand people participated comprising local communities, students and civil servants.

7.0 FINANCIAL PROGRESS

Overall Budget and Expenditures

The summary of the expenditure against approved budget estimates for the reporting

period (July 2016-June 2017) is reflected in Table 12.

Table 12: Expenditure against Budget Appropriations

Account

Budget

Appropriations

(Nu. in Million)

Expenditure

(Nu. in Million)

Unspent

(Nu. in Million) % Utilization

NATIONAL SOIL SERVICES CENTER

RGoB 25.001 23.314 1.687 93.3

BTFEC 5.098 4.153 0.945 81.5

LDN 0.610 0.208 0.402 34.1

GRAND TOTAL 30.709 27.675 3.034 90.1

http://www.nssc.gov.bt/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/WSD163.jpg


ANNEX – 1: STAFF STRENGTH Sl.

No. Name Qualification Position Title

1 Karma Dema Dorji PhD Program Director

2 Tshering Dorji PhD Principal Land Management Officer

3 Jamyang M. Phil. Specialist

4 Phuntsho Gyeltshen M. Sc. Dy. Chief Soil Survey & Land Evaluation Officer

5 Suraj Chhetri M. Sc. Principal SF & PN Officer

6 Tsheten Dorji M. Sc. Sr. Soil Survey & Land Evaluation Officer

7 D B Tamang B. Sc. Chief Laboratory Officer

8 Tshering Dhendup B. Sc. Assistant Chemist (EOL from 30th March’17)

9 Tashi Wangchuk B. Sc. Lab. Officer

10 Dawa Tashi B. Sc. (Agri) Soil Survey & Land Evaluation Officer

11 Sonam Tenzin B. Sc. (Agri) SS & LE Officer (Joined from 1st January’17)

12 Haka Drukpa B. Sc. (Agri) Land Management Officer

13 Ngawang Tenzin B. Sc. (Agri) Extension Supervisor (Resigned from 16th August’16)

14 Tashi Uden B. Sc. (Agri) Sr. Soil Fertility & Plant Nutrition Supervisor – I

15 Jigme Dorji Diploma Sr. Laboratory Technician

16 Tshewang Dorji Diploma Chief Laboratory Officer

17 Chenga Tshering Diploma Sr. Agriculture Officer

18 Ran B. Subba Diploma Sr. Lab. Technician

19 Sangita Pradhan Diploma Sr. Technician

20 Chencho Dorji Diploma Sr. SS & LE Supervisor (Resigned from 14th April’17)

21 Yeshey Chedup Diploma Sr. Soil Survey & Land Evaluation Supervisor

22 Tshering Pem Diploma Extension Supervisor

23 Tshewang Tobgay Diploma Soil Survey & Land Evaluation Supervisor – II

24 Kuenzang Nima Diploma Land Management Supervisor

25 Madhan L. Gurung Diploma SF & PN Supervisor – I

26 Karma L. Jamtsho Diploma SF & PN Supervisor (Joined from 1st January’17)

27 Pelzang Certificate Sr. Laboratory Technician – II

28 Jigme Kundrel Certificate Sr. Laboratory Assistant

29 Norbu Rinchen Certificate Assistant Laboratory Technician

30 Wangchuk Dema Certificate Sr. Laboratory Assistant

31 Sonam Lhamo Certificate Laboratory Assistant

32 Ugyen Pem Certificate Administrative Assistant

33 Tshering Wangmo Certificate Accounts Assistant

34 Cheki Lhadon Certificate GSP – Messenger

35 Chador Wangdi Certificate Driver

36 Wangchuk Certificate Driver

37 Pradeep Lohar Certificate Driver

38 Tashi Dorji Certificate Driver

39 Choki Rinzin Class XII Driver

40 Rinzin Wangmo Class VIII ESP – Laboratory Attendant

41 Pema Wangchuk Class VIII ESP – Lab. Utility Asstt. (Joined from 1st August’16)

42 Rinchen Norbu Class VIII ESP – Field Asstt.

43 Sita Gurung Class V ESP – Sweeper

44 Kencho Tenzin ESP – Night Guard


ANNEX – 2: IMPORTANT PUBLICATIONS

Sl.

No. Report Title

Year of

Publication

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

A participatory approach towards increasing potato yield for

Thrimshing Farmers (Soil Fertility Unit - Published in Sanam Drupdey, 6th

Edition; Feb’16)

Fertilizer Recommendations for Major Crops in Bhutan Version # 2

Project Implementation Completion Report – SLM Project

Bhutan Land Cover Assessment 2010-Technical Report

Soil and Plant Diversity Study along Gasa-Lunana Transect in Bhutan

SLMP Annual Work Plan (2011-12)

Soil Erosion – Measurement and analysis of soil erosion plot data for 2010

Soil Erosion – Measurement and Analysis of Soil Erosion Plot Data for

2011

BHUCAT - Bhutan Catalogue of Soil and Water Conservation

Approaches and Technologies - Best Practices and Guidelines from

Bhutan for Sustainable Land Management on Steep to Very Steep

Slopes

Working the Land - Documenting the Key Lessons of Sustainable Land

Management on Steep to Very Steep Slopes in Bhutan

Indigenous Technical Knowledge (ITK) on Soil & Soil Fertility

Management

Participatory Approaches in Sustainable Land Management – Planning,

Implementation & Monitoring as Continuous Learning Processes

National Action Plan to Combat Land Degradation

Soil Erosion –Measurement and analysis of soil erosion plot data for 2009

Evaluation of GEF-MSP Project: Building capacity and Mainstreaming

Sustainable Land Management in Bhutan

Final Report Terminal Evaluation UNDP/GEF Medium Sized Project on

Building Capacity & Mainstreaming SLM in Bhutan

Development of Research/ Activity Project Proposals


Soil Erosion – Measurement and analysis of soil erosion plot data for 2009

Integrated Biodiversity Survey of the Lower Wangchhu Watershed,

Bhutan

Rangeland Management in Bhutan

Study on Poverty Sustainable Land Management Linkages in Bhutan-A

consultancy Report-2009

DrukDIF for the Natural Resources of Bhutan – A Consultancy Report-

2009

Sustainable Land Management Participatory Action Planning Manual &

Tool Kit


Sustainable Land Management Interventions: Cost Benefit Analysis

Report

Rural Livelihoods and Peri-Urban Analysis

Review of Mainstreaming of sustainable Land Management in

Government Policies and Plans in Bhutan

A guide to Fertilizer Recommendation for Major Crops

A guide to Nutrient Deficiency/Toxicity Symptoms in Citrus

2016

2013

2013

2011

2011

2011

2011

2011

2011

2011

2011

2011

2010

2010

2010

2010

2010

2010

2010

2010

2009

2009

2009

2009

2009

2009

2008

2008

2008

2008


ANNEX – 3: THESIS AND DISSERTATIONS ON SOIL & LAND MANAGEMENT Sl.

No.

Author/Thesis Title

& Year

1

2

3

Karma Dema Dorji (2016). Soils as proxies of environmental fluctuations at the southern

slopes of the Bhutan Himalayas. Friedrich-Alexander-Universität, Erlangen-Nürnberg,

Germany

Tshering Dorji (2015). Soil carbon variability under montane ecosystems: assessing the

influence of landscape attributes. The University of Australia

Suzy Rebisz (2015). Cardamom-Based Agroforestry Systems: The Soil Fertility Management

in cardamom- dominant systems, wild forest-cardamom systems and mixed trees-cardamom

systems in Darla, Bhutan. Wageningen University, The Netherlands.

4 Thomas Kott (2012). A Comparative Study on Erosion risk on plots with a Continuous

Cultivation System and plots with a Shifting Cultivation System (Tseri) in Bhutan.

Wageningen University, The Netherlands.

5 Tsheten Dorji (2011). Computer Aided Land Evaluation for paddy rice cultivation in the

mountainous area. A case study of Radhi Watershed, Bhutan. Khon Kean University,

Thailand.

6 Tshering (RC-Yusipang, 2011). Impact of fertilizer practices on soil & plant nutrient status

and their relations to yield and fruit quality of apple in Bhutan. Kasetsart University,

Thailand.

7 Yeshey (RC-Bajo, 2010). A comparative assessment of land management approaches in

Bhutan. Case study from Chukha & Dagana districts. Asian Institute of Technology,

Thailand.

8 Tshewang Namgay (NOP, 2010). Influence of Biochar on the plant uptake of trace elements

and their bioavailability in soil. The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.

9 Tshering Dorji (2009). Chronosequence of river terraces at Thangbi, Bumthang. Wageningen

University, the Netherlands.

10 Chhimi Rinzin (DoA, 2008). Status, options and challenges in soil and water conservation in

Bhutan: an implication for sustainable land management. Asian Institute of Technology,

Thailand.

11 Thomas Caspari (2007). The soils of Bhutan: Parent materials, soil forming processes, and

new insights into the paleo-climate of the Eastern Himalayas. Borntrager, Berlin, Stuttgart,

Germany.

12 Franziska Stossel (ETH Intern, 2000). Evaluation of Current Apple Tree (Malus domestica)

Nutrient Management Practices in the Paro & Thimphu Valleys.

13 Yeshey Dema (2000). Nitrogen Mineralization from Cattle FYM – A Case Study from

Bhutan, University of Reading, UK

14 Karma Dema Dorji (1998). Within field variability in soil physical and hydraulic properties,

crop growth & soil water dynamics. University of Reading, UK

15 Jamyang (1998). Effects of Organic Matter on Micro-Nutrients, University of Reading, UK

16 Chencho Norbu (1989). Effect of Organic (cattle manure-rice straw) and inorganic fertilizers

on wetland rice production. Central Luzone State University, Philippines.

foreword · 2018-04-19 · inherent nutrient/mineral contents in the samples. in soil samples, the...

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