Soils of the Kwale-Mombasa-Lungalunga Area (quarter degree sheets 200,201 and 202) 1978

Abstract

The present soil survey is the third in a series of "Reconnaissance Soil Surveys" with multi-purpose land evaluiltiot1 per topographic map sheet. This particular soil survey covers three degree map sheets, namely the Kwale, Mombasa and Lungalunga sheets, sheet no. 200,n 201 and 202 respectively. The soil maps are presented at scale 1:100,000. It is shown in this report that the general pattern of the soil resources is mainly determined by the kind of bedrock and climate. Most of the soils have very sandy topsoils, show high infiltration rates and are resistant to erosion. Because of these sandy topsoils and the low organic matter content these soils have low fertility. The report gives an example description of the methods employed and a comprehensive account of the possible land use alternatives considered for the area. However, it should be noted taht some of the methods applied are liable to be improved as more experience is being gathered and the needs of the users of the map and data become better known.