Soil Quality Analysis Application: Construction

Soil
quality is important to the prospective farmer that seeks to build a
more traditional semi-intensive fish or shrimp farm utilizing earthen
ponds. This type of operation relies upon the proper composition of
local soils to form stable and watertight earthen ponds. Where
land-based aquaculture is concerned, earthen ponds are considered the
most cost-effective way to retain water for fish and shrimp farming
operations.

Comprehensive
soil horizon analysis at multiple sampling locations within each
potential site will be performed. Soil pH testing will be done on-site
for all boreholes and at multiple horizons. General on-site observations
on soil type will also be made. A certified United States lab will
perform a comprehensive soil texture analysis and soil chemical analysis
of all major and minor soil nutrients for multiple samples taken from
the most suitable sites. We will then review soil quality test results
against optimum criteria for aquaculture.

Soil
texture classification is determined by the percentage of sand, silt,
and clay in a given sample. From these percentages, soils are then
classified by type according to the soil triangle. Soils suitable for
earthen pond construction must contain a minimum of 20-30% clay and
preferably no more than 30% sand. The best types of soil for aquaculture
are classified as clay, silty clay, silty clay loam, and clay loam.