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1 year ago in Forest Ecology , Soil Science By Shreya K

Can forest plantations contribute to soil acidity and degradation?

We're evaluating land-use scenarios for carbon sequestration, and fast-growing plantations are a key option. However, there's concern that they might mine the soil of nutrients and lower pH, compromising long-term site productivity. I need a clear, evidence-based perspective to weigh the ecological trade-offs.

 

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By Sarita Answered 1 year ago

In my work monitoring plantation soils, I have seen this occur, particularly with short-rotation, high-biomass species like eucalyptus or pine on already-weathered soils. The mechanism is straightforward: the trees uptake base cations (calcium, magnesium) for growth, and as the harvested biomass is removed, these nutrients are exported from the site. Over rotations, this can deplete the soil's buffering capacity, lowering pH. I would recommend integrating regular soil nutrient budgeting and considering leaving harvest residues on-site to slow this process, as pure plantations often function as a mining operation for soil fertility.

 

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