Abstract

MARTINEZ, Luis Joel. A model for evaluating land quality: the case of potato cropping. Agron. colomb. [online]. 2006, vol.24, n.1, pp.96-110. ISSN 0120-9965.

Evaluating land quality is a basic aspect when making decisions regarding the most suitable areas for growing each crop and land degradation and conservation to ensure agricultural sustainability and competitiveness. A spatial model was developed in this research for evaluating land quality for potato cropping in a mountainous area of Cundinamarca (Colombia). The model is based on spatial analysis, integrating land quality indicators with technologies such as GIS and satellite image data. Erosion was the most important process affecting land quality in more than 70% of the area. Other land indicators were water availability, rooting conditions, soil drainage and potential for mechanisation. The model approach could be adapted for land quality evaluation in other areas and other types of land use.

Keywords : land quality; spatial model; GIS; potato crop.

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