Keywords
spatial variability
soil physical properties
kriging
Beni Moussa irrigated Perimeter
Morocco
How to Cite
Abstract
Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) is a fundamental soil property influencing water flow and quality. While previous research primarily focused on small-scale spatial variability, this study assesses Ks distribution across a larger area within an irrigated perimeter. We aimed to determine the spatial distribution of Ks in the Beni Moussa irrigated perimeter (Morocco) using field measurements combined with geostatistical analysis. Seventy soil samples were collected from different soil units, and Ks was measured in situ using a single-ring infiltrometer. Samples were analysed for physicochemical properties, including texture, organic carbon (OC), organic matter (OM), porosity, bulk density (BD), CaCO3, and water content (WC). Statistical analysis examined correlations between these parameters. Spatial variability was assessed using semi-variograms, and spatial distribution was modelled via kriging interpolation. Results reveal significant spatial heterogeneity, with Ks values ranging from 32 to 680 mm ∙ h−¹. High Ks values were associated with sandy textures, while lower values correlated with clay-rich soils. Additionally, electrical conductivity (EC) and pH influenced infiltration capacity, highlighting soil physicochemical impacts on water movement. Spatial distribution showed higher Ks values (>300 mm ∙ h−¹) in the northeastern part and lower values in the southwest, corresponding to sand content. Sandy soils promote excessive drainage, limiting crop growth. These findings underscore the importance of optimising water management in semi-arid agricultural regions where resource conservation is critical due to climate change and human activities.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Atika Mouaddine, Hicham Bouzekraoui, Ahmed Barakat, El Hamzaoui El Hassania, Soufiane Hajaj, Zakaria Bni, Maria El-Harram
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