Strategies for Reclaiming and Ameliorating Saline Soil in the Yellow River Delta Region

Abstract

The Yellow River delta, located from 37°21′ to 38°12′N and 118°07′ to 119°10′E, is one of the largest undeveloped deltas (a total land area of 12,000 km²) in the world. With the increase in population and reduction of arable land, this huge region, which includes seven counties and 153,000 ha of national wetland reserve, has recently drawn the attention of both the government and other organizations. The annual increment of newly formed land (alluvium) is 2,000 ha. Salt-affected soil covers an area of 4,430 km². Saline soil has a high concentration of soluble salt that reduces the ability of plants to absorb water and nutrients. Based on specific climatic and environmental conditions, strategies for reclaiming and ameliorating saline soil in this region are discussed in this chapter. In the recharge area, improved drainage and water-efficient crop management practices could reduce the amount of water entering the groundwater system. In the discharge area where salinity is observed, establishing plant growth is important. Suitable cultivation systems, including leaching, tillage, and drainage, are practical strategies for ameliorating salt-affected soil. For several specific situations, applying amendments that improve soil structure and properties is effective. Moreover, adding manure and other organic or chemical fertilizers can increase production by enhancing soil fertilization. Planting suitable crops, including corn, grass, and forage, can directly produce harvests in a short period, without increasing land coverage. Reforestation is one of the vital measures for coping with environmental degradation and promoting regional sustainable development. The species involved could include Chinese ash, tree of heaven, Chinese sumac, Chinaberry tree, Siberian elm, and black locust.