Estimation of accumulated soil organic carbon stock in Dawuro zone montane Forests southwest Ethiopia using geospatial tools

This study estimates the accumulated soil organic carbon (SOC) stock in the montane forests of the Dawuro zone, Southwest Ethiopia, utilizing geospatial tools. Digital soil mapping techniques, including remote sensing and the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), were employed to analyze forest canopy density and its impact on soil health—a critical factor for climate change mitigation. Data were gathered from satellite imagery (Sentinel-2A), soil samples, and field surveys. The research reveals the relationship between land use/land cover (LULC) classifications and SOC storage, highlighting that dense forests and grasslands significantly contribute to SOC accumulation, while open areas and steep slopes show limited storage due to erosion risks. Soil texture analysis indicates that high clay content enhances organic matter retention, promoting higher SOC levels. Additionally, soil pH was found to influence SOC dynamics, with moderately acidic to neutral soils supporting better microbial activity and carbon storage. The study underscores the importance of sustainable land management practices in maintaining optimal SOC levels and improving soil quality, ultimately providing valuable insights for ecological conservation and climate resilience strategies in the region. Through regression analysis, the findings establish a robust framework for predicting soil health conditions based on SOC and its influencing factors