Visual Soil Quality Assessment of Rice Production Areas in Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur

Abstract

This study assessed the soil quality of selected rice farms in Barangay Montay, Datu Piang, Maguindanao del Sur, using the LADA Visual Soil Assessment (VSA) manual. Thirty samples from ten sites were evaluated based on soil structure, surface crusting, earthworm abundance, plant root development, and soil texture. The visual scores were integrated to determine the Soil Quality Index (SQI). The results revealed variations in soil conditions among the sites. Several samples exhibited favorable soil structure, while others showed firm clods and evidence of tillage pans. Most samples exhibited moderate soil crusting, while earthworm abundance was generally low. Sandy, sandy loam, and silt loam were the dominant soil textures. SQI classified 11 samples as having good soil condition, 18 as moderate, and one as poor. The study concluded that most assessed rice farms were under moderate soil condition, indicating physical and biological limitations that may contribute to soil degradation. The VSA and SQI were useful in identifying variations in soil conditions and potential areas requiring improved soil management.