Evaluation and Recommendations for Salinization Management and Control of Coastal Ecosystems in Pinar del Rio, Cuba

Resumen

The aim of this study was to evaluate the factors that cause salinization on the low south coastal plain in the municipality of Los Palacios, Pinar del Rio, Cuba. Vegetation, climate, relieve, biodiversity, hydrology and conditions of the coastline were evaluated. Soil agro productivity was determined for rice as the main crop, along with other crops used for rotation. It was concluded that the area studied has a fragile ecosystem, with a salinization threat caused by superficial ground water, inefficient irrigation systems and drainage networks, water loss during supply, and flatness, as well as inadequate conditions of irrigation and drainage systems. Works on mangrove forest recovery he along the coastline were recommended to rehab the water canal and drainage network, implement crop rotation, eliminate double rice harvest, preserve soil coating in areas with less than five meters above sea level, perform constant monitoring and evaluation of local salinity, fix the drainage network, and invest in the efficiency of water supply and its use.