Dissertations / Theses on the topic 'Rehabilitation of Degraded Farmland'

In the Amhara region of Ethiopia, the government has promoted a range of forestry initiatives aimed at rehabilitation of degraded land and provision of forest products. This research examined household attitudes and technical and institutional aspects of the programmes to determine how they could more effectively improve rural livelihoods and increase environmental sustainability. Households surveyed in nine villages (Kebeles) practiced mixed subsistence farming; asset endowments were variable among households, despite the government’s assumption that all households are similarly motivated to participate in forestry interventions. The majority (82%) of households plant trees on their land; the level of private tree planting is positively correlated with several wealth indicators (e.g., livestock ownership, surplus labour) and frequency of contact with an extension agent. Household tree planting activities are also influenced by Kebele-level attributes, for example, access to forest nurseries and the type of forestry intervention present in the Kebele. Household proximity to the woodland and agro-ecological potential has no effect on tree planting activities; open grazing constrains tree growing in the region. All three types of rehabilitation intervention examined (i.e., community woodlots, hillside closures, land allocation) were implemented on degraded communal land; the opportunity costs of the interventions, in terms of loss of access, have been felt more deeply by households located near intervention sites than those at a distance. Interventions managed by user groups or directly by participants are viewed more positively than those led by local government authorities (the Kebele Administrations, KA). Lack of community involvement in design and decision-making, and an underuse of products and revenue generated from community woodlots are common features in KA-led interventions.

In the modern industrial city most consistent solution that provides a gradual creation of conditions to optimize urban environment, is the implementation of architectural and landscape rehabilitation of urban areas. Implementation of reconstruction works associated with changes in the quality of the urban environment, can be effective only if their social and ecological. In this regard,architectural and spatial ormation of the urban environment is considered in conjunction with the functional and ecological optimization and compositional harmonization.

The study of river complexity and sensitivity to future human land-use activities and climate change is a fast growing field within the discipline of fluvial geomorphology. Associated with this is a need to improve river rehabilitation and catchment management approach, design and effectiveness. This study aimed to investigate drivers of the recent geomorphological sensitivity of the Baviaanskloof River-floodplain, an upland system in South Africa, by integrating the concepts of geomorphological connectivity and Panarchy. The understanding generated was used to evaluate the approach of the State agency, Working for Wetlands (WfWet), to river-floodplain rehabilitation in the catchment.The concepts of geomorphological connectivity and Panarchy provide useful frameworks for understanding interactions between geomorphological processes and structure across scales of space and time. Geomorphological connectivity explains the degree to which water and sediment is linked in a river landscape, determined by the distribution of erosional and depositional landforms (Brierley et al. 2006; Fryirs et al. 2007a; Fryirs et al. 2007b). Panarchy attempts to explain lagged response to disturbances, non-linear interactions, and sudden shifts in system state, and has been applied largely to ecological systems. Panarchy theory, when combined with the concept of geomorphological connectivity, provides a guiding framework for understanding river complexity in greater depth. The first results chapter of this study investigated river long-term and recent geomorphological history, towards understanding the nature and timing of river geomorphological cycling between erosion and deposition. Optically Stimulated Luminescence dating of alluvial fan and floodplain sedimentary units was conducted, for analysis of river-floodplain long-term history (100s to 1 000s of years). Interviews with 11 local landowners, combined with analysis of historic aerial imagery and river-floodplain topographic surveys, provided a means of describing recent (last few decades) geomorphological dynamics. The results indicated that the Baviaanskloof is naturally a cut- and-fill landscape over scales of several hundred to thousands of years, characterized by the alternation between phases of high fluvial energy and alluvial fan expansion, and low energy conditions associated with floodplain accretion. Recent and widespread river-floodplain degradation was compressed into a short period of approximately 30 years, suggesting that one or more drivers have pushed the system beyond a threshold, resulting in increased water and sediment connectivity. The second results chapter investigated the role of human land-use activities and flooding frequency and magnitude, as drivers of recent river-floodplain degradation. Human impacts were investigated by describing land-use activities for the preceding 80 years, and relating these activities to changes in river-floodplain form and behavior. Temporal trends in flood events of different frequency and magnitude were investigated by analyzing rainfall data, integrated with landowner reports of flood-inducing rainfall magnitudes. The findings indicated that human land-use activities have been an important driver of recent river- floodplain degradation, through the enhancement of water and sediment connectivity across spatial scales of the catchment. Episodic and high magnitude floods synergized with human driven increased connectivity, precipitating stream power and geomorphological threshold breaches, resulting in a shift in river behaviour. The third results chapter investigated the influence of tributary-junction streams and fans on the geomorphological form, behavior and sensitivity of the Baviaanskloof River. Local- scale topographic impacts of tributary fans and streams were described using topographic surveys and geomorphological mapping techniques. Tributary streams form a major control on the behaviour of the river, by influencing the degree of coarse sediment connectivity with the main channel. Although tributary fans buffer the river from disturbances occurring in the wider catchment, they initiate topographic variations along the floodplain, influencing local-scale patterns of deposition and erosion along the river. The main river responds to water and sediment inputs from tributary junction streams by locally adjusting longitudinal slope, maintaining an overall constant slope of 0.0066 m/m. The response of the Baviaanskloof River to tributary junction fans and streams is however variable, and is fashioned by complex interactions between geomorphological and anthropogenic factors. The final two chapters of the thesis evaluate the findings of the study within the context of river-floodplain rehabilitation approaches in South Africa, and within the theoretical, philosophical and methodological context of the research. The first of these two chapters evaluates the approach of the WfWet programme to river-floodplain rehabilitation in the Baviaanskloof. The chapter indicates that the present practice of WfWet is to reinstate a pre-degradation state, which is not suited to the Baviaanskloof River-floodplain, since the river-floodplain has passed a geomorphological threshold, resulting in a new set of interacting processes and landforms. The author presents a conceptual model illustrating the existence of geomorphological adaptive cycles interacting across spatial and temporal scales, thereby attempting to explain a river Panarchy specific to the Baviaanskloof. From this conceptual model, a hierarchical rehabilitation framework, targeting geomorphological processes and structure situated at different spatial and temporal scales of the landscape is suggested. The final chapter discusses the implications of integrating the concepts of geomorphological connectivity and river Panarchy theory in studies of river complexity and sensitivity to geomorphological change. The author suggests that there is scope for further investigation of the application of the two concepts within the discipline of fluvial geomorphology, particularly with regard to developing quantitative approaches to measuring and describing connectivity and Panarchy.

CoordenaÃÃo de AperfeiÃoamento de Pessoal de NÃvel Superior
Dentre as alternativas para recuperar Ãreas degradadas està a adiÃÃo de resÃduos orgÃnicos visando melhorar a estrutura e a disponibilidade de nutrientes no substrato degradado. No Estado do CearÃ, o resÃduo orgÃnico proveniente de tanques de criaÃÃo de camarÃes (carcinicultura) merece destaque por apresentar teores relevantes de nutrientes e matÃria orgÃnica. O objetivo deste estudo foi comprovar a hipÃtese de que o resÃduo de carcinicultura favorece o desenvolvimento de leguminosas arbÃreas e melhora o substrato degradado. Na etapa inicial do estudo foi feita a caracterizaÃÃo geoquÃmica e fÃsico-quÃmica do resÃduo para identificar a presenÃa de pirita e o risco potencial de acidificaÃÃo. Posteriormente, foi instalado um experimento em casa de vegetaÃÃo com delineamento experimental em blocos casualizados e esquema fatorial 5x3, com quatro repetiÃÃes. Os tratamentos foram cinco doses de resÃduo de carcinicultura (0; 2; 4; 8; 12 Mg ha-1) e trÃs espÃcies de leguminosas: Sabià (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia Benth), Leucena (Leucaena leucocephala) e Jurema Preta (Mimosa hostilis). TrÃs meses apÃs a adiÃÃo do resÃduo de carcinicultura foi avaliado o crescimento das leguminosas, bem como a fitomassa e o acÃmulo de nutrientes na parte aÃrea e nas raÃzes. TambÃm foi avaliada a disponibilidade de nutrientes no substrato. Por meio dos resultados da anÃlise geoquÃmica do ferro foi observado baixo grau de piritizaÃÃo e, consequentemente baixo risco de acidificaÃÃo ao utilizar o resÃduo de carcinicultura. Ao final do perÃodo de trÃs meses de avaliaÃÃo do experimento em casa de vegetaÃÃo, constatou-se que as leguminosas arbÃreas responderam positivamente Ãs doses de resÃduo. As espÃcies que apresentaram maior crescimento em altura e maior fitomassa foram Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia e Mimosa hostilis, apresentando tambÃm maior acÃmulo de nutrientes. Os efeitos do resÃduo de carcinicultura no solo foram: aumento na condutividade elÃtrica e no pH. Conclui-se que o resÃduo da carcinicultura favorece o crescimento e o desenvolvimento das leguminosas arbÃreas avaliadas no presente estudo, sem prejudicar atributos quÃmicos e fÃsicos do substrato e permitindo maior disponibilidade de nutrientes de modo a favorecer o processo de revegetaÃÃo da Ãrea degradada.
The addition of organic residues is among the alternatives to rehabilitate degraded lands, aiming to improve the structure as well as the nutrients availability of mining spoils. In the Cearà State, the organic residue from shrimp farms (carcinicultura) deserves attention because it contains relevant amount of nutrients and organic matter. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that residue from shrimp farms improves the development of leguminous trees as well as the degraded land. In the initial phase of this study both geochemical and physical-chemical characterization of the organic residue were done aiming to identify the presence of pirite, and the potential risk of acidification. One experiment was set up under controled conditions, in the experimental design of randomized blocks in a factorial scheme 5x3, with four replications. The treatments were five rates of organic residue from shrimp farms (0; 2; 4; 8; 12 Mg ha-1) and three leguminous trees species: Sabià (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia Benth), Leucena (Leucaena leucocephala) and Jurema Preta (Mimosa hostilis). Three months after addition of the organic residue were evaluated the growth of leguminous trees, the fitomass, as well as the nutrients accumulation in the above ground, and bellow ground parts of the plants. The availability of nutrients in the substrate also was evaluated. The results of the geochemical analysis showed low amount of pirite, and consequently the low risk of acidification by the use of organic residue from shrimp farms. After a period of three months was observed that leguminous trees presented positive answer to rates of organic residue. The species that presented higher growth and fitomass production were Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia and Mimosa hostilis, presenting also the higher nutrients accumulation. The effects of the organic residue in the soil were: increase in soil eletric conductivity, and pH. The conclusion is that the organic residue from shrimp farms improved the growth and development of leguminous trees in the present study, and it did not damage soil chemical and physical attributes, allowing higher availability of nutrients to favour plant growth in degraded land.

Kyoto University (京都大学)
0048
新制・課程博士
博士(地域研究)
甲第16981号
地博第133号
新制||地||43(附属図書館)
29656
京都大学大学院アジア・アフリカ地域研究研究科東南アジア地域研究専攻
(主査)教授 小林 繁男, 准教授 古澤 拓郎, 教授 河野 泰之, 准教授 甲山 治
学位規則第4条第1項該当

As atividades de mineração são o suporte do crescimento e do desenvolvimento econômico da sociedade moderna. Por outro lado, estas atividades são causadoras de consideráveis modificações ambientais. Assim, faz-se necessário o desenvolvimento da Avaliação de Impacto Ambiental, que vise a definição de planos de controle ambiental que garanta a mitigação de tais impactos, bem como o seu monitoramento para verificação da eficácia das medidas definidas. Esta avaliação é uma exigência da Constituição Brasileira de 1988: toda atividade poluidora deve recuperar os danos causados ao meio ambiente. A obrigação de recuperar consiste em repor a área em uma situação de normalidade e estabilidade. Desta forma, algumas medidas mitigadoras, como a reposição vegetal e a reimplantação da fauna, estão sendo tomadas por alguns empreendimentos, as quais medidas necessitam ser monitoradas, a fim de permitir a avaliação de sua eficácia e evolução ao longo do tempo. O biomonitoramento é uma prática nova nas ciências ambientais. Este estudo propõe uma metodologia de monitoramento biológico capaz de avaliar a eficácia e a evolução das técnicas de revegetação na mineração. Como estudo de caso, foi selecionada a Millennium Chemicals - empresa que pertence ao Grupo Lyondell Chemicals Company - que produz minerais pesados, na Mina do Guaju, localizada no extremo norte do Estado da Paraíba. Trata-se de uma proposta metodológica que visa uma simples e prática aplicabilidade, permitindo a continuidade do biomonitoramento ambiental por um longo período de tempo com a utilização de insetos, em especial da Família Formicidae. Além da proposta de metodologia, este trabalho também contempla resultados e análises do total de três coletas, que foram realizadas ao longo de um ano. A metodologia desenvolvida, incluindo os processos de coletas e análise de resultados, representa uma contribuição importante para a redução de custos despendidos para o processo de gerenciamento ambiental de empresas de mineração, através de um melhor direcionamento dos procedimentos ambientais adotados, sua relação com o 9 planejamento de lavra, e permitindo um monitoramento da área afetada pela mineração.
The mining industry is known to contribute to the growth and the economic development of modern society. However, these activities may generate considerable modifications to the environment. Therefore, it is necessary the development of an Environmental Impact Evaluation that aims the definition of the environmental control plans that guarantee the mitigation of such impacts, as well as their monitoring to check the effectiveness of the defined measures. Such a plan is a now requirement introduced by the Brazilian Constitution of 1988: all polluting activities must recover the actual damages to the environment. Because of that, procedures such as vegetation replacement and re-establishment of the fauna are being taken by most companies of mining where rehabilitation measures need to be monitored, in order to allow the evaluation of its effectiveness and progress throughout time. Biomonitoring is a new monitoring practice in environmental science. The present research work has the objective of developing a biological automonitoring methodology for evaluating the effectiveness and the progress of revegetation techniques in mined-out areas. As study case, it was selected Millennium Chemicals - a company that belongs to Lyondell Chemicals Company - that produces heavy minerals in Mina do Guaju, located in the extreme north of Paraíba State. The proposed methodology includes a simple and practical way for measuring biomonitored environment for an extended period of time with the use of insects, with particular focus on the Formicidae Family. In addition to the methodology proposed, this research work also contemplates preliminary results and analysis of the first collection, of the total of three collections, which should be carried throughout one year. The methodology proposed, which include data collection and analysis of results, represents an important contribution for the reduction of costs of environmental management of mining companies, through better environmental control procedures, and their relation with mine planning, and auto-monitoring of the areas eventually affected by mining activities.

Este estudo compreende uma avaliação de procedimentos e medidas de recuperação de áreas degradadas por mineração na Região Metropolitana de São Paulo- RMSP. Inicialmente, apresenta-se o problema investigado e a hipótese que orientou a pesquisa. Destaca-se o caráter incipiente dos trabalhos de recuperação efetuados na RMSP e o papel relevante que poderiam ter em face do contexto urbano(Capítulo 1). Descreve-se o método adotado na realização da pesquisa, ressaltando o levantamento de 42 minas ativas (17 de brita, 15 de areia, 4 de caulim, 3 de argila, 1 de calcário, 1 de quartizito e 1 de rocha ornamental), 11 minas desativadas e 54 antigas áreas de mineração atualmente ocupadas por outros usos, totalizando 107 áreas estudadas (Capítulo 2). Apresenta-se um breve panorama mundial e nacional sobre o tema da recuperação de áreas degradadas por mineração. Inclui-se uma discussão sobre conceitos básicos, métodos e técnicas comumente empregados em minas ativas, usos pós-mineração freqüentes e instrumentos legais, institucionais e empresariais utilizados no planejamento e gerenciamento da questão (Capítulo 3). Avaliam-se os procedimentos relacionados ao planejamento da recuperação na RMSP, tendo como referência a análise de 91 Planos de Recuperação de Áreas Degradadas - Prads relativos a minerações ativas e desativadas na RMSP (Capítulo 4). As medidas de recuperação praticadas em minas ativas na RMSP são avaliadas quanto às finalidades desejadas, procedimentos adotados e desempenho obtido (Capítulo 5). Discutem-se aspectos relacionados à instalação de usos pós-mineração na RMSP, tendo como base o estudo em minas desativadas e a análise sobre a reabilitação de antigas áreas de mineração que se encontram atualmente ocupadas de forma desordenada ou planejada (Capítulo 6). Ao final, sintetizam-se as conclusões gerais obtidas, contemplando os aspectos principais sobre as medidas de recuperação e a instalação de usos pós-mineração na RMSP (Capítulo 7).
This work deals with the assessment of mine reclamation procedures in the Sao Paulo Metropolitan Region (RMSP). It begin with the presentation of the problem and of the hypothesis which orientated the research work. The very incipient character of the reclamation works is emphazised as well its potential role in urban areas (Chapter 1). Chapter 2 describes the research method. 42 ative mines (17 of aggregate, 15 of sand, 4 of kaolin, 3 of clay, 1 of limestone and 1 of dimension stone) are studied in the RMSP. Other 11 inactive mines and 54 ancient mine sites are also studied. An overview about mine reclamation is presented in the research. It includes some basic concepts, procedures about reclamation in urban areas and after-mining uses (Chapter 3). 91 plans for the reclamation mine (Prads) related to active and inactive mines in the RMSP are also studied (Chapter 4). Procedures for reclamation are evaluated with reference to the final results achieved (Chapter 5). Aspects related to after-mining uses in the RMSP are discussed in Chapter 6. Conclusions achieved are summarized in Chapter 7.

A finalidade das áreas verdes é oferecer, à população dos grandes centros urbanos, oportunidades de lazer, recreação, bem-estar, aumentando, assim, sua qualidade de vida e seu contato com a natureza. O aumento do índice de áreas verdes nas cidades, expresso pela metragem quadrada de espaços livres de uso público em relação à sua população absoluta, induz a diversas manifestações sociais e culturais e amplia a integração da comunidade, inibindo o uso de tempo e energia com atividades danosas à sociedade, inclusive a violência. A recuperação e reabilitação das áreas degradadas pela mineração tornaram-se obrigatoriedade legal, a partir de 1988, com o advento da atual Constituição Brasileira. A existência de diversos sítios degradados nas áreas urbanas dos municípios, resultantes da extração mineral, constituindo espaços livres abandonados e a necessidade de cumprimento da legislação, incentiva a ocupação de tais locais por áreas verdes. A redestinação destes locais degradados pela mineração, em áreas verdes públicas, é uma das alternativas mais eficientes em aumentar o índice de áreas verdes das grandes cidades e ampliar suas opções de lazer. Com o objetivo de aliar o cumprimento da legislação vigente sobre recuperação de áreas degradadas, com as funções primordiais da criação de áreas verdes, foram analisados três casos de áreas verdes públicas paulistas, que outrora foram mineradas para a extração de materiais aproveitados na construção civil e utilizaram o mesmo método de lavra. Os locais escolhidos para estudo foram o Parque Luiz Roberto Jábali, o Parque do Varvito e a Praça Dr. Ulisses Guimarães, localizados, respectivamente, nos Municípios de Ribeirão Preto, Itu e Campinas. O método de pesquisa utilizado foi o de estudo de caso. A parte teórica do trabalho consistiu no levantamento de dados bibliográficos regionais e locais sobre as áreas de estudo. A parte prática consistiu no levantamento de dados em campo sobre a situação atual de cada uma das áreas verdes estudadas, através de visitas técnicas para coleta dos dados primários, por meio da comunicação e da observação direta sistemática. A manutenção do Parque Prefeito Luiz Roberto Jábali foi considerada altamente positiva. O local cumpre as funções primordiais de uma área verde, além de contribuir para o aumento do índice de áreas verdes do Município de Ribeirão Preto. O Parque do Varvito apresenta algumas benfeitorias mal conservadas, porém cumpre suas funções culturais e paisagísticas, elevando, também, o índice de áreas verdes do Município. A Praça Dr. Ulisses Guimarães encontra-se abandonada pela Prefeitura Municipal de Campinas e, embora eleve o índice de áreas verdes do Município, não atinge os objetivos básicos de uma área verde municipal. Os sítios urbanos degradados pela mineração são potenciais opções de aumento do índice de áreas verdes num determinado Município. Contudo, somente atingirão tais funções, contemplando bemestar, lazer e recreação à população, quando a conservação e a manutenção forem bem conduzidas pelas políticas governamentais de gestão e fiscalizadas pela comunidade.
The purpose of a green area or public park is to offer the population of large urban centers an area where they can enjoy leisure and recreation, thus increasing their quality of life and contact with nature. The ratio of green in a city, expressed by the area of public space such as parks divided by the population, is linked to numerous social and cultural manifestations and increases community integration, inhibiting the use of time and energy with activities that can be considered harmful to society, including violence. The recovery and rehabilitation of areas degraded by mining are required by law since 1988, after the promulgation of the Brazilian Constitution. The fact that there is a great number of sites in cities’ urban areas that have been degraded as a result of mineral extraction and later become public areas covered by vegetation, has led to making public parks a common alternative when recovering an area, especially because of legal requirements. It is one of the most efficient alternatives when it comes to increasing green areas and leisure spots. It was with the objective of joining compliance with the current legislation on rehabilitation of degraded areas with the basic functions of increasing the number of green areas, that three such areas were analyzed; all in the State of São Paulo and all formerly mined for construction material using the same extraction procedures. The areas chosen for the study were the Parque Luiz Roberto Jábali, the Parque do Varvito and the Praça Dr. Ulisses Guimarães, located respectively in the Municipalities of Ribeirão Preto, Itu and Campinas. The survey method used was the case study. The theoretical aspect of the study consisted in finding local and regional bibliographical data on the areas. The practical aspect consisted in gathering field data on the current situation of each one studied, by means of conducting technical visits for primary data collection through direct and systematic observation. Maintenance of the Parque Prefeito Luiz Roberto Jábali was considered very positive. The location achieves the primary purposes of a green area, and also makes a contribution to the ratio of green in the Municipality of Ribeirão Preto. The Parque do Varvito presents a few positive aspects as far as what it offers, but maintenance has been fairly poor. It does, nonetheless, carry out its cultural and landscaping functions, also helping the ratio of green. The Praça Dr. Ulisses Guimarães has been abandoned by the Municipal Authorities and contributes only to the green area in Campinas, not achieving the primary goals of a Municipal green area. The recovery of a degraded mining is an option for increasing the area of green in a given Municipality; it will, however, only fulfill the purposes of urban green areas, i.e. to increase overall well-being of the population by offering leisure and recreation, when it is duly preserved and maintained with help from government policies and the community.

CoordenaÃÃo de AperfeiÃoamento de Pessoal de NÃvel Superior
FundaÃÃo Cearense de Apoio ao Desenvolvimento Cientifico e TecnolÃgico
Banco do Nordeste do Brasil
A regeneraÃÃo natural da vegetaÃÃo à o procedimento mais barato para reabilitar Ãreas degradadas, porÃm, à lento. O plantio de mudas de arbÃreas nativas pode ser uma soluÃÃo. Nesse contexto, conduziu-se o presente trabalho em casa de vegetaÃÃo por 120 dias, testando 5 doses de P (0, 75, 150, 300 e 600 mg L-1) com fosfato de rocha natural na colonizaÃÃo por FMA e por rizÃbio nativos, e no desenvolvimento de mudas de embaÃba (Cecropia pachystachya TrÃcul) e de sabià (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia Benth), cultivadas em solo natural (SN), solo natural com 50 % esterilizado (SND) e solo natural adicionado de 25 % de material orgÃnico (SNM). Analisou-se o comprimento, massa da matÃria seca, teores de N, P, K da parte aÃrea e o diÃmetro do colo das plantas, nÃmero de esporos e colonizaÃÃo micorrÃzica, massa da matÃria seca dos nÃdulos de rizÃbios, carbono da biomassa microbiana, respiraÃÃo basal e quociente metabÃlico do solo. O crescimento em comprimento, o diÃmetro do colo e a produÃÃo de massa da matÃria seca da parte aÃrea das plantas de embaÃba nÃo sofreram efeito dos tratamentos. Os substratos SN e SND proporcionaram a maior esporulaÃÃo e colonizaÃÃo de FMA, favorecendo o aporte de P na parte aÃrea dessas plantas. Essa atividade foi reduzida nas maiores doses de P. A RespiraÃÃo Basal e o carbono da biomassa microbiana do solo (CBMS) foram menores no SND e nÃo sofreram influÃncia das doses de P. O substrato SND proporcionou maior aporte de N na parte aÃrea das plantas, mas sem influÃncia das doses de P. Enquanto que o SNM proporcionou maior aporte de P e K na parte aÃrea das plantas. Os FMA favoreceram o aporte de P na parte aÃrea das plantas de embaÃba, mas com reduÃÃo nas maiores doses de P. O crescimento em comprimento das plantas de sabià nÃo sofreu efeito dos tratamentos, porÃm o diÃmetro do colo e a massa da matÃria seca da parte aÃrea das plantas apresentaram melhores resultados no substrato SNM, mas sem influÃncia das doses de P. O SNM apresentou o menor nÃmero de esporos, maior colonizaÃÃo de FMA na dose de 75 mg de P, todavia com reduÃÃo nas maiores doses, e maior CBMS, mas sem influÃncia das doses de P. O SND e o rizÃbio nativo proporcionaram maior aporte de N na parte aÃrea e maior massa nodular nas plantas de sabiÃ, sendo influenciados pelas doses de P. O SNM proporcionou maior aporte de P e K na parte aÃrea das plantas de sabiÃ, tendo a dose de 600 mg de P favorecido os maiores valores desses nutrientes. Os FMA proporcionaram um discreto incremento no teor de P na parte aÃrea das plantas de sabiÃ.
Natural regeneration of vegetation is the procedure cheaper to rehabilitate degraded areas, however, is slow. The planting of native tree seedlings may be a solution. In this context, an experiment was carried out in a greenhouse for 120 days, testing 5 P rates (0, 75, 150, 300 and 600 mg L-1) with rock phosphate colonization by AMF and native rhizobia in development of seedlings embaÃba (Cecropia pachystachya TrÃcul) and sabià (Mimosa caesalpiniaefolia Benth), grown in natural soil (NS), natural soil sterilized with 50% (NSS) and natural soil added with 25% organic compost (NSC). We analyzed the length, dry matter weight, N, P, K aerial part and the stem diameter of the plant, number of spores and mycorrhizal colonization, dry matter weight of nodules rhizobia, microbial biomass carbon, basal respiration and metabolic quotient soil. The growth in length, stem diameter and dry matter weight of embaÃba not affected by the treatments. The substrates NS and NSS provided the greatest colonization and sporulation of AMF, favoring the input of P in shoots of these plants. This activity was reduced at the highest levels of P. The soil basal respiration and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) were lower in the NSS and not influenced by P fertilization. The substrate NSS provided major input of N in shoots, not influenced by P fertilization. Whereas the NSC provided major input of P and K in shoots of embaÃba plants. The AMF favored the input of P in shoots of embaÃba plants, but this activity was reduced at the highest levels of P. The growth of sabià was not affected by treatments, but stem diameter and dry mass weight showed better results in substrate NSC. However, were not affected by the rates of P. The NSC had the lowest number of spores, the highest colonization of AMF at rate of 75 mg of P, however with reduction in higher rates, and higher MBC, but without influence of P rates. The NSS and native rhizobia provided major input of N in shoots and increased nodular mass in sabià and levels of phosphorus influenced these parameters. The NSC provided major input of P and K in shoots of sabiÃ, in rate of 600 mg P, favored higher values of these nutrients. AMF provided a mild increase the levels of P in the shoots of sabià plants.

Impactos ambientais podem interferir nas características da biomassa microbiana, no processo de ciclagem de nutrientes, nas características físicoquímicas e também na diversidade da microbiota e da macrofauna. O objetivo desse trabalho foi conhecer as diferentes interações entre estes atributos e identificar os indicadores da qualidade do solo envolvidos com o tempo de recuperação. Três áreas com estágios diferentes de recuperação (5, 10 e 20 anos) foram comparadas com uma floresta Estacional Semidecídua nativa (NT) com intuito de estudar o comportamento da microbiota, da macrofauna e de suas interações com os atributos físico-químicos. Foram coletadas amostras em 15 pontos por áreas, escolhidos aleatoriamente. Dentre os atributos microbiológicos, a maior atividade das enzimas urease, fosfatase ácida e desidrogeanse foi encontrada na área nativa. O mesmo foi constatado para a respiração basal e para o carbono e nitrogênio da biomassa microbiana. A análise da estrutura da comunidade de Bacteria, feita a partir de TRFLP, separou as áreas, nativa e de 20 anos de recuperação, das demais, somente no verão. A densidade do solo, a umidade e a microporosidade afetaram negativamente os indicadores microbiológicos do solo, sendo em conjunto com o carbono total do solo os principais fatores discriminantes das áreas. Ocorreu maior presença das espécies de FMA A. spinosa, A. colossica, A. lacunosa, G. decipiens e Gigaspora sp. na área NT e das espécies G. viscosum, A. mellea, A. scrobiculata e S. heterogama na área R05 e G. rosea nas áreas R10 e R20. As principais variáveis ambientais que explicam a relação com as espécies de FMA foram microporosidade, macroporosidade, atividade da fosfatase ácida e densidade, umidade, CBM, NBM e N-NO3. Efeito sazonal sobre as espécies de FMA também foi observado. Maiores valores de proteína do solo relacionada com glomalina (GRSP) foram encontrados no inverno e somente a proteína do solo relacionada com glomalina facilmente extraível (EE-GRSP) separou a área NT das demais. Observou-se, também, alta correlação dessa glicoproteina com os atributos físico-químicos e microbiológicos. Em relação à fauna edáfica ocorreu efeito da sazonalidade e do método de coleta utilizado (armadilhas e monolito). Houve diferença entre os índices de Shanon, Simpson e Pielou somente na época seca, sendo as maiores diferenças nas áreas mais antigas (NT e R20). Maior riqueza foi encontrada ao se utilizar o método de monolito. De acordo com a análise discriminante, Diplopoda foi o principal grupo para as duas épocas e os dois métodos de coleta. Porosidade, densidade basal, umidade, nitrogênio total do solo e atividade das enzimas desidrogenase e urease foram fatores importantes para a separação dos grupos da fauna no gradiente de recuperação ambiental. Esse trabalho mostrou que os atributos biológicos e físicoquímicos de qualidade do solo interagem e se modificam de acordo com a idade das áreas e com a sazonalidade.
Environmental impactation can affect microbial biomass, nutrient cycling, processes, physical-chemical characteristics and also the diversity of microbes and edaphic fauna. The aim of this study was to understand the different interactions between these attributes and to identify the indicators of soil quality involved in the recovery process. Three areas with different stages of recovery [5 (R05), 10 (R10) and 20 (R20) years] were compared with a native semideciduous forest (NT) in order to study the behavior of microbes, macrofauna and their interactions with the physical and chemical attributes. Samples were collected at 15 points in each area. Greater activity of urease, acid phosphatase and dehydrogenase were found in the native area. The same result was found for basal respiration, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and nitrogen (MBN). The structure of Bacteria analyzed by T-RFLP discriminated the native and R20 from R05 and R10, only in the summer. Soil bulk density, humidity and microporosity negatively affected soil microbiological indicators and together with total soil carbon they were the main discriminant factors. A. colossica, A. lacunosa, G. decipiens and Gigaspora sp. were more abundant in NT and the species G. viscosum, A. mellea, A. scrobiculata and S. heterogama in R05 and G. rosea in R10 and R20. Porosity, soil bulk density, humidity, acid phosphatase activity, MBC, MBN and N-NO3 - were the principal environmental variables related to AMF species distribution. Seasonal influences on AMF species were also observed. Higher glomalin related soil protein (GRSP) content was found only in the winter and NT had only EE-GRSP (easly extracted glomalin related soil protein) different from the recovery areas. Correlations among glomalin and physical-chemical and microbiological attributes were observed. Edaphic fauna groups were influenced by seasonality and by sampling methodology (pitfall traps and monoliths). Shannons, Simpsons and the evenness index were significant only in the dry season and in the oldest areas. Richness was higher when the monolith method was used. Diplopoda was the principal group that discriminated the recovery gradient for both seasons and methodologies. Porosity, soil bulk density, humidity, total nitrogen, urease and dehydrogenase were important factors to separate faunal groups. This work showed that biological and physico-chemical soil quality attributes interact and changed according to gradient recovery and seasonality.

Este trabalho avaliou se os instrumentos legais do licenciamento ambiental da extração de areia contribuem para a recuperação das Áreas de Preservação Permanente (APP), além disso, investigou as condições e os recursos dos órgãos envolvidos e o grau de informação dos proprietários. A área de estudo foi a Bacia Hidrográfica do Rio Corumbataí, localizada no Estado de São Paulo. A estratégia de estudo se baseou: a) na análise dos processos de licenciamento ambiental e mineral dos 36 empreendimentos existentes na bacia; b) na análise de campo dos plantios em APP de 21 portos de extração de areia de leito de rio; c) em entrevistas com 15 empreendedores e 15 funcionários dos cinco principais órgãos envolvidos. Foi verificado que a maioria dos órgãos envolvidos apresentam alguma dificuldade na atribuição de suas funções dentro do licenciamento, o que reside principalmente da carência de recurso humano, além da carência de recursos financeiros e materiais e de condições de preparo dos técnicos envolvidos. As irregularidades ambientais e legais dos portos de areia são função de uma soma de fatores, entre eles, a falta de informação e negligência dos empreendedores e a lentidão e os elevados custos do licenciamento ambiental e mineral. A avaliação final mostrou que 52% dos plantios podem ser classificados como ruins, 38% como regulares e somente 10% puderam ser considerados como bom e ótimo. Na maioria das vezes, as técnicas de reflorestamento utilizadas não atenderam aos critérios mínimos para o restabelecimento da estrutura e da função de uma floresta. Foi evidenciado ainda uma situação preocupante de perda de biodiversidade, uma vez que a maioria dos plantios e projetos de reflorestamento possui baixa diversidade em espécies e uma tendência à homogeneidade florística quando comparado com áreas naturais. Chama a atenção o insucesso dos plantios efetivados. Grande parte deles apresentou alta mortalidade, baixa densidade, baixa cobertura do solo por sombreamento da copa, fisionomia florestal sem estrutura vertical bem definida, serapilheira ausente ou escassa e regeneração ausente ou de baixas quantidade e qualidade. Os projetos de recuperação por reflorestamento não são satisfatoriamente cumpridos pelos empreendedores e a maioria mostrou uma listagem florística idêntica a de outros projetos. Além disso, se fossem implementados, na sua maioria, não garantiriam a manutenção da biodiversidade natural das matas ciliares. De acordo com os resultados, pode-se inferir que os atuais instrumentos legais do licenciamento ambiental dos portos de areia não estão contribuindo para a recuperação das APP da Bacia do Rio Corumbataí. Entretanto, o licenciamento ambiental da atividade parece estar contribuindo com a conservação das matas naturais ainda existentes na bacia, em função da atual política ambiental de não desmatamento de novas matas em APP.
The purposes of this work were to evaluate whether the environmental licensing legislation for sand mining contributes to the recovery of the riparian vegetation of the Permanent Preservation Areas (river buffer zones), as well as the conditions and resources availability of the involved agencies, and the land owners’ information level. The study area was the Corumbatai River basin, located in the State of São Paulo. The study strategy involved: a) the analysis of the environmental licensing procedures of the 36 existing mining sites in the river basin; b) field analysis of the seedlings growth in the revegetated areas in the 21 sand mining sites; c) interviews with 15 entrepreneurs and 15 officers of the five main agencies involved. It was observed that most agencies have problems with their own attributions in the licensing process, mainly owing to human resource deficiencies, lack of financial and material resources, and poor conditions for the adequate technical capacitating of the responsible officers. The environmental and legal irregularities of the sand mining sites are due to several factors, such as entrepreneurs’ misinformation and negligence, slowness and high costs involved in the environmental and mineral licensing. A final evaluation showed that 52% of the revegetation areas could be classified as bad, 38% as regular, and only 10% could be considered good or excellent. Generally, the revegetation techniques used did not meet the minimal criteria for reestablishing the riparian forest structure and function. A worrying situation regarding biodiversity loss was also evidenced, since most of the revegetation projects presented low species diversity and a tendency to floristic homogeneity, as compared to what is observed in natural areas. Most of the revegetated areas showed high mortality rate, low density, little soil cover due to canopy shading, poorly defined vertical structure, absense or inadequate litter and absence or low regeneration quantity and quality. Revegetation projects are not succesfully accomplished by the entrepreneurs and most of them showed an identical floristic list of species to those found in previous projects. Moreover, if such projects were implemented, they would probably not guarantee the maintenance of the natural biodiversity of riparian forests. According to the results, it can be inferred that the current environmental licensing legislation of sand mining sites are not contributing to the recovery of the riparian vegetation in the Corumbatai River basin. However, the environmental licensing of the sand mining activity may seem to be contributing to the conservation of the remaining natural forests in the basin, due to the current environmental policy that prohibities the cutting of riparian forests.

Os fungos micorrízicos arbusculares (FMA) são muito importantes para a nutrição mineral das plantas e para a recuperação de áreas degradadas, pois possibilitam um melhor desenvolvimento das espécies arbóreas usadas na revegetação. Entretanto, para um melhor desempenho dos FMA, as condições ambientais devem ser favoráveis, pois tanto a ocorrência quanto a diversidade desses fungos são bastante influenciados por diversos fatores como os químicos, físico e microbiológico do solo. Diferentes profundidades do solo devem ser consideradas para um levantamento mais detalhado. Avaliaram-se os atributos químicos, físicos e microbiológicos e, entre estes, a glomalina e a ocorrência e diversidade de FMA em diferentes profundidades (0-15 cm, 15-30 cm e 30-45 cm). As áreas selecionadas para estudo foram: nativa (NT) e em gradiente de recuperação ambiental: 5 anos (R05), 10 anos (R10) e 20 anos (R20), todas localizadas no Bioma Mata Atlântica, Estado de São Paulo, Brasil. As coletas de solo e raízes foram realizadas em dois períodos: janeiro (chuvoso) e junho (seco). A colonização radicular foi avaliada em três pontos de amostragem sendo: (A) na base do tronco, (B) distanciadas em 1m e (C) de plantas no entorno das árvores. Os esporos foram identificados e posteriormente foram calculados a abundância relativa, e os índices de riqueza (R), diversidade de Shannon (H) e dominância de Simpson (Is) das espécies de FMA. Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância ANOVA, teste t, análise canônica discriminante (ACD) e análise de redundância (RDA). A colonização radicular foi maior para as áreas em estádios mais avançados de recuperação, nas raízes coletadas no ponto C e na época seca. A densidade de esporos de FMA, na época chuvosa, foi maior em R05 em todas as profundidades, enquanto que na época seca a densidade de esporos foi maior para R05 apenas em 0-15 cm, a partir de 15 cm uma maior densidade de esporos foi verificada para NT e R10. Considerando os dois períodos amostrados e as quatro áreas estudadas, foram identificadas 23 espécies de FMA, sendo os gêneros Glomus e Acaulospora os mais freqüentes. Um maior índice de riqueza (R) e diversidade (H) de espécies foi encontrado na área NT e nem sempre uma maior diversidade foi verificada nas camadas mais superficiais. Espécies do gênero Acaulospora (Ac. mellea e Ac. scrobiculata) e Glomus (G. viscosum e G. sp2.) foram sempre abundantes em todas as profundidades analisadas, enquanto que as espécies do gênero Gigaspora, Ambispora e Racocetra foram raras em todas as profundidades. A ACD indicou que Glomus viscosum, Acaulospora scrobiculata, Acaulospora mellea e Scutellospora heterogama foram as espécies que mais contribuíram para distinguir as áreas e a RDA mostrou que dentre os atributos do solo, o pH, H+Al, carbono do solo, glomalina, umidade, microporosidade e densidade foram os que mais influenciaram a diversidade de FMA. A umidade, densidade e glomalina correlacionaram positivamente com o número de esporos, já o nitrato do solo apresentou uma correlação negativa.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are very important for the recuperation of degraded land, because they enable better absorption of mineral nutrients by plants and favor the development of tree species used in revegetation.However, for greater efficiency of mycorrhizae the environmental conditions must be favorable, because the occurrence and diversity of these fungi are greatly influenced by several factors such as chemical, physical and microbiological soil attributes. Different soil depths should be considered for a more detailed survey. Chemical, physical and microbiological evaluations, including the soil glomalin content and the diversity of AMF at different depths (0-15 cm, 15-30 cm and 30-45 cm) were performed. The areas selected for study were: native forest (NT) and a gradient of environmental restoration and reforestation: five years (R05), 10 years (R10) and 20 (R20), all located in the Atlantic forest, State of Sao Paulo, Brazil. The samples of soil and roots were taken in two periods: January (rainy) and June (dry season). Root colonization was assessed at three sites as follows: (A) at the base of the tree trunk, (B) 1m away from the trunk, and (C) seedlings growing around the adult trees. Spores were identified and the relative abundance and richness indices (R), Shannons diversity (H) and Simpsons dominance index (Is) of AMF were calculated. The data were analyzed using ANOVA, the t test, canonical discriminant analysis (CDA) and redundancy analysis (RDA). The root colonization was higher for areas with more advanced stages of recovery, in roots collected at point C and during the dry season. The density of spores in the rainy season was higher in R05 at all depths, while in the dry season the density of spores was higher for R05 only at 0-15 cm, and from 15 cm downwards a higher density of spores was observed for NT and R10.Considering the two periods and the four areas studied, we identified 23 AMF species, and the genera Glomus and Acaulospora were the most frequent. A higher richness (R) and diversity index (H) of species was found in the area NT. Not always the greatest diversity was found in the superficial layers. Species of Acaulospora (Ac. scrobiculata and Ac. mellea), Glomus (Glomus sp2. and G. viscosum) were always abundant at all depths, while the species of the genera Gigaspora, Ambispora and Racocetra were rare at all depths. The CDA indicated that Glomus viscosum, Acaulospora scrobiculata, Acaulospora mellea and Scutellospora heterogama were the species that contributed most to distinguishing the areas and the RDA showed that among the soil characteristics, pH, H + Al, soil carbon, glomalin, humidity, microporosity and density were the attributes that most influenced the diversity of AMF. Moisture, density and glomalin were positively correlated with the number of spores, however, the soil nitrate showed a negative correlation.

A erosão acelerada resulta em graves consequências para a qualidade do solo e da água, assim como para a sustentabilidade dos sistemas agrários. Para caso de estudo seleccionou-se a bacia hidrográfica do Rio Paraopeba, localizada na região sudoeste do Brasil, na área denominada de Quadrilátero Ferrífero, onde a intensa actividade mineira, se reflecte, não apenas no agravamento dos processos erosivos, mas também, na qualidade da água e do solo. No trabalho desenvolvido, identificaram-se as zonas mais vulneráveis aos processos erosivos, tendo como base metodologias de modelagem matemática computacional e efectuou-se o estudo geoquímico dos solos, tendo em vista a definição das tecnologias mais adequadas para a remediação da bacia. Os trabalhos desenvolvidos permitiram identificar situações de contaminação de solos e apresentar soluções para a sua remediação. Desta forma, foi validada a metodologia de estudo proposta, que se considera viável para ser adaptada ao estudo de outros locais; ABSTRACT: MODELLING OF SOIL EROSION IN A STRONG IMPACT REGION OF MINING AND GEOCHEMICAL STUDY OF THE MOST VULNERABLE AREAS, WITH A VIEW TO REMEDIATION AND REHABILITATION. STUDY OF AN AREA OF THE BASIN OF THE PARAOPEBA RIVER (MINAS GERAIS, BRAZIL) The accelerated erosion results in serious consequences for the quality of soil and water, as well as to the sustainability of agricultural systems. For case study was selected to Paraopeba River Basin, located in the southwestern region of Brazil, in the area known as the Iron Quadrangle, where intense mining activity, reflected not only in the increase of erosion, but also in quality water and soil. In the work, the most vulnerable areas to erosion were identified, based on methodologies of computational mathematical modeling and worked up geochemical study of the soil, with a view to defining the most appropriate technologies for the remediation of the basin. The developed works have identified soil contamination, and provide solutions to their remediation. Thus, it was validated the study proposed methodology, it is considered feasible to be adapted to study other locations.

Thesis (M.S.)--University of Wisconsin--Madison, 1997.
Typescript. eContent provider-neutral record in process. Description based on print version record. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 109-119).

Aspects, which influence the choice of species for the rehabilitation of degraded arid areas, were studied. Although only one trial was established in the target area (transition area between the Succulent and Nama Karoo) seed of the indigenous species used was collected from this area. In the initial trials the effect of rumen digestion on the germination of fodder shrubs was observed. Species included the exotic Atriplex nummularia and Cassia sturtii, and the indigenous Sutherlandia microphylla, Tetragonia calycina, Tripteris sinuatum and Salsola glabrescens. No seed of T. calycina germinated. In T. sinuatum and S. glabrescens rumen digestion prevented germination while in the other species percentage germination was reduced. In the establishment trial with A. nummularia and C. sturtti, on a bare area onfarm, in the arid Northern Cape Province, no seed germinated. Observations showed that, for both species, protection is essential, where the risk of herbivory is high. Of the two species, C. sturtti shrubs appeared to be more drought tolerant. A further trial addressed the intra-species variation in the palatability of A. nummularia. Established shrubs of the F1 “elite” generation were browsed by sheep. The most palatable shrubs were identified and seed from these shrubs will be used to produce seedlings that will go into further selection trials. The final section of this study was a comparison, in terms of quantity, quality and re-growth, of C. sturtii, T. sinuatum and S. microphylla, at, and subsequent to, five different harvest dates. In the first three harvests no significant differences were observed in the total plant material produced, between the three species. In Harvest 5 both indigenous species had produced more edible material (leaf and <3mm stem material) than C. sturtii. The edible material of Harvests 1, 3 and 5, was analysed for crude protein content, in vitro digestibility and mineral concentrations. All three species had sufficient crude protein as well as calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, to meet maintenance requirements of sheep. Trace minerals, manganese and copper, were present in adequate amounts and toxicity could be more of a concern. The concentrations of zinc in all three species, however, were only sufficient in material obtained in Harvests 1 and 3. Re-growth of all shrubs 21 weeks after Harvest 5 was assessed in terms of survival, healthiness, leafiness, volume and dry matter production. C. sturtii shrubs harvested at a later stage in the initial trial had the best survival. For most re-growth periods, C. sturtii shrubs also appeared healthier and leafier than the indigenous species. S. microphylla seedlings had, however, established in the S. microphylla plots, which was a plus for that species. Copyright
Dissertation (MScAgric)--University of Pretoria, 2010.
Plant Production and Soil Science
unrestricted

abstract: In the noise and commotion of daily life, people achieve effective communication partly because spoken messages are replete with redundant information. Listeners exploit available contextual, linguistic, phonemic, and prosodic cues to decipher degraded speech. When other cues are absent or ambiguous, phonemic and prosodic cues are particularly important because they help identify word boundaries, a process known as lexical segmentation. Individuals vary in the degree to which they rely on phonemic or prosodic cues for lexical segmentation in degraded conditions. Deafened individuals who use a cochlear implant have diminished access to fine frequency information in the speech signal, and show resulting difficulty perceiving phonemic and prosodic cues. Auditory training on phonemic elements improves word recognition for some listeners. Little is known, however, about the potential benefits of prosodic training, or the degree to which individual differences in cue use affect outcomes. The present study used simulated cochlear implant stimulation to examine the effects of phonemic and prosodic training on lexical segmentation. Participants completed targeted training with either phonemic or prosodic cues, and received passive exposure to the non-targeted cue. Results show that acuity to the targeted cue improved after training. In addition, both targeted attention and passive exposure to prosodic features led to increased use of these cues for lexical segmentation. Individual differences in degree and source of benefit point to the importance of personalizing clinical intervention to increase flexible use of a range of perceptual strategies for understanding speech.
Dissertation/Thesis
Doctoral Dissertation Speech and Hearing Science 2015

Masters Research - Master of Philosophy (MPhil)
This research fills a gap in the knowledge of microrelief as a tool for recovering degraded land, and adds to the knowledge with a new and original contribution. The literature on surface microrelief, one of the major factors that control stormflow, surface runoff, and related ecosystems functions, including soil formation, was reviewed in the global and peri-urban context. It was concluded that anthropogenic development exacerbates stormwater flow, soil erosion and biodiversity losses. The conventional response is to harden and drain the land, depleting ecosystem functions and denying water from the soil. Trends in stormwater, erosion control and urban water cycle management within water sensitive design thinking (WSD) and the prevailing catchment drainage paradigm were reviewed and found inadequate for addressing erosion, which continues at many hundreds of times the rate of soil formation. Australian legislation requires ecologically sustainable development and ‘the maintenance of ecosystems that sustain life’. This requirement is not being met. Soils, biological capacity and local water cycles are depleted by anthropogenic development. It was hypothesised that an asymmetric microrelief system (AMS) based on natural systems could be designed to arrest stormflows and stem soil erosion. The AMS implemented on the Callaghan Campus of the University of Newcastle Australia in 1992 was evaluated with an industry standard conceptualisation modelling tool MUSIC v5 (eWater 2013) based on site data gathered over four years (2011-2015). Soils were assessed for permeability with infiltrometers and a hydraulic penetrometer under dry and saturated conditions. AMS on-ground performance, vegetation cover and soil profiles were photographically recorded. Results from modelling and site observations of the UoN AMS case after twenty years, and the subsequent Allowah case after 6 months, demonstrated that a scalable AMS can be designed on the basis of remnant soil character, rainfall intensity and slope, and implemented with local tools and resources to rejuvenate degraded peri-urban lands, by dissipating rainfall energy, reducing loss of water, sediment and nutrient by > 90%, and by securing > 60% of peak stormflows in < 8% of the land area. The modelling tool was found to have limitations in regard to the complex patternation of AMS Bionodes. The results point to the need for a refined modelling and specification tool with the capacity to integrate complex microrelief patternation, biological processes and the local, climate moderating water cycle. There is the opportunity to take a new approach to land use planning and ecologically sustainable development (ESD) based on the fluid patterns of exaggerated microrelief found in the naturally hydrated landscape mosaic. The likely benefits, savings and wider implications are discussed. These include reduced risk; reduced high exposure maintenance liabilities; reduced disaster recovery costs; reduced pollution of aquatic ecosystems; the recovery of arable land with a net positive rate of organic soil formation; the rejuvenation of climate moderating biomass; an integrated ‘whole of system’ response to flooding, and increasing biological capacity on the urban fringe. There are implications for all planners and land managers. The research shows that microrelief is a practical and affordable tool for rehydrating the legacy of degraded lands in Australia deemed ‘beyond the means of the nation’ to repair.

The worsening global biodiversity crisis combined with limited resources for conservation makes the prioritisation of cost-effective actions critical, particularly in agricultural landscapes where multiple conservation actions are available that vary widely in their effectiveness and cost. In such situations, understanding the complexities and drivers of the cost-effectiveness can improve the efficiency and effectiveness of future conservation investments. In this thesis I present the results of a multidisciplinary investigation of cost-effectiveness in the conservation of biodiversity in agricultural landscapes, focussing on two key themes. The first involved the cost-effectiveness of agri-environment schemes, where farmers receive financial incentives for biodiversity outcomes, a major policy mechanism that accounts for billions of dollars in public conservation expenditure globally. I include three chapters (Papers I-III) from a book I cowrote and edited on the lessons learned from agri-environment schemes in Australia, in which I discuss the various environmental and economic factors that influence cost-effectiveness. I applied the principles and practices identified through this research in an evaluation of the costeffectiveness of an Australian agri-environment scheme (Paper IV). I found that the total cost per hectare of habitat restored through the scheme was less than half that achieved using conventional designs such as windbreak plantings. Despite such clear benefits of considering cost-effectiveness, through a review of the global agri-environmental literature I show that the integration of economic factors in evaluations of biodiversity outcomes is still lacking and shows little evidence of improving; fewer than 15% of the 239 studies reviewed include any measure of cost-effectiveness (Paper V). The second key theme emphasized the equal importance of combining appropriate measures of effectiveness with detailed financial costs, and focused on two specific actions commonly employed in the conservation of birds in agricultural landscapes: revegetation of cleared land, and the passive restoration of remnant vegetation. Through field evaluations of 84 habitat restoration sites in southeastern New South Wales, I found significantly higher gains in bird species richness, including woodland birds, following revegetation than those from protection of remnant vegetation (Paper VI). Despite the higher cost of revegetation, I show the superior cost-effectiveness of this approach where remnant vegetation is unlikely to cleared under the counterfactual (Paper VII) and the strong influence of site design factors such as geometry in determining cost-effectiveness. In another study (Paper VIII), I demonstrate improved cost-effectiveness of habitat restoration through the integration of economic data in a systematic conservation planning approach that accounted for the temporal dynamics of threatened birds. The third theme explored the potential environmental and social benefits of the adoption of broader economic principles and techniques in the planning of ecological restoration (Paper IX). Combined, this research reveals the many factors that influence the financial costs of conservation on agricultural land and the complex interactions with ecological factors that influence the overall cost-effectiveness. It also highlights the relative simplicity of the economic evaluation techniques available, and showcases the conservation benefits that can be achieved through the improved collection and integration of financial costs and biodiversity benefits in the planning of conservation expenditure.