Characterization of Soan River Valley Soils in Lower Shiwaliks of Himachal Pradesh-I. Hill Soils

Six soil series were identified in hilly part of Soan river catchment. These soils are developed on soft sandstone and uplifted riverine deposits and are rrwderately deep to very deep, neutral to alkaline in soil reaction and low in organic carbon and cation exchange capacity. The sand is the dominant mechanicalfraetion. Taxonomically, the soils are Entisols and Inceptisols. On the basis of Storie Index, the soils have been rated either poor or very poor in productivity. The overall poor characteristics of soils show their susceptibility to soil erosion and narrow possibilities for agricultural use.