Impact of raised beds on surface runoff and soil loss in Alfisols and Vertisols

Hydrological monitoring is crucial to designing agricultural water management (AWM) interventions. This study characterizes the soil hydraulic properties of Alfisols and Vertisols develops rainfall-runoff-soil loss relationships through long-term hydrological monitoring. Two types landform techniques, i.e., raised bed flat bed, were followed in three paired watersheds 2–5 ha, characterized by deep Vertisols, medium Alfisols. Surface runoff monitored at outlet respective for 8–12 years. In addition, 29 infiltration tests conducted using a tension disc infiltrometer applying suction −150 mm, −100 −50 −20 mm. Soil macro porosity conductivity found be almost double those beds mm head both types. Saturated was higher compared Vertisols; however, less generated phenomenon largely explained high storage capacity Vertisols. Runoff from soils than 2% total rainfall (<500 mm) received dry normal years (600–900 mm), coefficient ranged 7–11% 16–17% case However, fallow land 17% due moisture content limited available cropped land. The method reduced surface 15–20 35–40 significantly lower during light moderate intensity method; this difference not significant events very rainfall. 30–60% beds. results are useful evidence-based AWM strategies under rainfed conditions.