Vetiver technology: rooting out soil erosion problem

Soil erosion is a serious problem which if left unchecked can have disastrous consequences on our environment. But the problem though important has been little publicized. Every year millions of tonnes of sand and top soil are washed away into the rivers and sea by erosion. There is no way we can replace this soil. If we wait for the natural processes to do the job, it would take centuries. Yet, because it is a silent problem, few give it the attention it deserves. Though there are many soil conservation measures, the most outstanding of these is the use of Vetiver Grass Technology (VGT), that is cheap, replicable, sustainable and fully effective in stopping erosive degradation and increasing crop yield.

Commenly called as Khus Khus grass, it has been used for soil and water conservation in agricultural lands for many years but its related impact on land stabilization, soil erosion and sediment control only started in the late 1980s following its promotion by the World Bank. Vetiver belongs to the grass family. It also called as Ilami chamver, Vettiver in Tamil, Ramacham in Malayalam, Vattiveeru in Kannada, Bala, Bena, Khas and Panni in Hindi. When applied correctly, the technology is very effective on slopes. A well established grass hedge will slow down rainfall run off, spreading it out evenly, and will trap runoff sediments to create natural terraces," said Mr. P. Haridas, Coordinator, India Vetiver Network, Malappuram, Kerala.When planted, the grass quickly forms a dense, permanent hedge which will reduce water flow velocity. Its strong fibrous root system penetrates and binds the soil to a depth of 3 meters and can withstand the effects of tunnelling and cracking. It is perennial and requires minimal maintenance.It will not compete with the crop plants it is used to protect. It has stiff and erect stems which can stand up to relatively deep water flow. Its sharp leaves and aromatic roots repel rodents, snakes and similar pests. Once established, it is generally unpalatable to livestock. It can withstand drought, flood and long periods of water logging. It will grow in all types of soil and is highly tolerant to toxic levels in the soil, according to Mr. B.C. Vitoo Aiyamma, former Tata tea planter and member India Vetiver Network.

The Hindu, February 14, 2008