Spatial Variability and GIS-Based Mapping of Soil Physico-Chemical Properties under Different Land Use Systems in Pilibhit District, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Spatial variability of soil properties is a common phenomenon in alluvial landscapes due to variations in parent material, topography, land use, drainage conditions, and anthropogenic interventions. Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) analysis provides valuable information regarding the utilization of natural resources and their impact on soil properties and environmental sustainability. The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the spatial variability and GIS-based distribution of soil physico-chemical properties under different land use systems of Pilibhit District. A total of 200 geo-referenced surface soil samples (0–15 cm depth) were collected from seven development blocks, namely Amaria, Barkhera, Bilsanda, Bisalpur, Lalaurikheda, Marauri, and Puranpur. Land use and land cover (LULC) analysis was performed using ArcGIS 10.3 and remote sensing techniques. GIS-based spatial interpolation of soil properties was carried out using the Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW) method to generate thematic distribution maps. The study area was dominated by agricultural land (71.75%), followed by forest area (18.58%). Soil samples were analyzed for texture, bulk density, porosity, pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and available macro- and micronutrients. The soils varied from sandy loam to clay loam in texture, with loam soils being dominant. Soil pH ranged from 6.2 to 7.4, indicating slightly acidic to neutral reaction, while electrical conductivity remained within non-saline limits (<1 dS m⁻¹). Organic carbon content ranged from 0.20 to 1.26%, indicating moderate to high variability. Available nitrogen and zinc were identified as the major limiting nutrients, whereas phosphorus and potassium showed medium fertility status. Secondary nutrients and most micronutrients were generally adequate. GIS-based spatial distribution maps clearly demonstrated considerable heterogeneity in soil properties across different blocks due to variations in parent material, land use, management practices, and depositional environments. The findings highlight the importance of site-specific nutrient management, balanced fertilization, and zinc supplementation for improving soil fertility, sustaining crop productivity, and supporting precision agriculture-based land use planning in Pilibhit district.