CH-2 LAND, SOIL, WATER, NATURAL

VEGETATION AND WILDLIFE

NOTES

1. LAND
- Land refers to the physical surface of the Earth, including
continents, islands, and other landforms.
- It is a crucial resource for various human activities such as
agriculture, housing, industry, and infrastructure
development.
- Land can be classified into different types such as
mountains, plateaus, plains, and deserts based on their
elevation and topography.

Land use refers to how land is utilized or managed, while land

conservation involves the protection and preservation of land
resources for future generations. These two concepts are
closely related, as responsible land use practices can
contribute to land conservation efforts.

Land conservation, on the other hand, focuses on the

protection and preservation of precious ecosystems,
biodiversity, cultural heritage sites, and other valuable natural
resources. It aims to prevent land degradation, habitat
destruction, and loss of biodiversity, among other threats.
Land conservation initiatives may involve establishing
protected areas, implementing sustainable land management
practices, promoting reforestation, and conserving important
natural habitats.

2. Soil:
 - Soil is a vital component of the Earth's crust that supports
plant growth and provides essential nutrients.
- It is formed through the process of weathering and the
accumulation of organic matter over time.
- Different types of soil exist, such as sandy soil, clay soil,
loam soil, etc., each with unique properties and
characteristics.
- Soil quality can vary depending on factors like
composition, moisture content, fertility, and pH level.

A soil profile refers to a vertical section of the soil that

represents different layers or horizons. These layers form due
to various factors like climate, parent material, vegetation,
topography, and time. Each layer of the soil profile has
distinct properties and characteristics, which play a crucial
role in determining the soil's fertility, water-holding capacity,
drainage, and overall suitability for different land uses.

Soil degradation refers to the deterioration of soil quality,

productivity, and its ability to support plant growth. There are
several factors that can contribute to soil degradation,
including erosion, nutrient depletion, compaction,
salinization, pollution, and loss of organic matter.

To mitigate soil degradation and conserve soil resources,

various methods and practices can be implemented.
Example: Mulching, Contour Barriers, Terrace Farming, Rock
Dam, Intercropping, Contour Ploughing, Shelter Belts

3. Water:
 - Water is an essential natural resource necessary for the
survival of all living organisms.
- It is found in various forms such as oceans, rivers, lakes,
glaciers, and groundwater.
- Water plays a crucial role in maintaining the Earth's
climate, supporting ecosystems, and meeting human needs
for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes.
- However, water scarcity, pollution, and unsustainable
usage have become significant concerns globally.
Water conservation refers to the practice of using water
efficiently and responsibly to preserve this valuable natural
resource. It is essential to conserve water to ensure its
availability for future generations and to mitigate the impacts
of water scarcity. Example: Reduced water usage in daily
activities, afforestation that helps slow down the surface
runoff, canals used must be properly lined, sprinklers should
be used for effective irrigation, drip irrigation.

4. Natural Vegetation:
- Natural vegetation refers to the plant life that grows in a
particular region without human intervention.
- It varies across different climatic zones, including forests,
grasslands, shrubs, and tundra.
- Natural vegetation provides habitat for various wildlife
species, helps maintain soil fertility, prevents erosion, and
contributes to the overall ecological balance.
- Deforestation, urbanization, and agricultural expansion
pose threats to natural vegetation, leading to biodiversity loss
and ecological imbalances.

5. Wildlife:
 - Wildlife encompasses all animal species that exist in their
natural habitats.
- It includes mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and
insects.
- Wildlife plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological
balance, pollination, seed dispersal, and nutrient cycling.
- However, factors such as habitat destruction, poaching,
pollution, and climate change pose significant threats to
wildlife populations worldwide.

Conservation of natural vegetation and wildlife-

Conservation of natural vegetation and wildlife involves
protecting and preserving the delicate balance of ecosystems
and biodiversity.
-National parks, wildlife sanctuaries, biosphere reserves
should be made to protect them.
-Conservation of creeks, lakes, and wetland is necessary.
-There should be a balance in the environment.
-Awareness programmes like social forestry and
Vanamohatsava should be encouraged.
-Wildlife Conservation: Implement measures to protect
endangered wildlife species, including conservation breeding
programs, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching efforts.
-Environmental Laws and Policies: Enforce strict laws and
regulations to protect natural vegetation and wildlife