SOIL-EROSION IN THE FALKLAND-ISLANDS - AN ASSESSMENT

Observations and data concerning soil erosion on clay-rich, sand-rich and organic soil materials are reported for the Falkland Islands, South Atlantic, where soil erosion is both widespread and currently active, though rather uneven in its distribution. The most extensively eroded areas are located on coastal sand deposits and where sandy soils occur at inland sites. There is evidence that some erosion is natural and was initiated before the Islands were settled; other erosion is of more recent origin and can be associated with land management practices, principally grazing management, stocking rates, and the frequency and intensity of pasture burning. The impact of soil erosion on the agricultural economy of the Islands appears to be negligible and it is not perceived to be an important environmental issue. This lack of concern probably arises because the on-farm and off-farm costs of erosion have never been determined and there are no data relating to rates of erosion. It is suggested that a research programme be established aimed at monitoring erosion rates, assessing land use practices that initiate erosion, and assessing the costs of erosion. Furthermore, guidelines for soil conservation should be established. If pasture burning is to continue, a recommended code of practice should be drawn up. Given the importance of the sheep industry to the Falkland Islands, it is desirable that the grazing potential be maintained.