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Topsoil preservation is an important criterion for sustainable land management and agriculture. It is essential to protect and conserve the fertile topsoil layer as it plays a crucial role in supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.
- The intent of this criterion is to ensure the preservation of available fertile soil on site and avoid its degradation during the process of construction.
Maximum Points : 1
1) Appraisal
Appraisal – 1 (Optional for 1 points)
- Ensure that 90% of fertile topsoil from disturbed area (including building footprint vehicular pathways and material storage areas) is preserved. Additionally, maintain its fertility, stabilize it, and use it for landscaping activity post construction.
Note – It is recommended that the remaining soil (post utilizing in landscape) is donated to the nursery.
Applicability Check: If the topsoil is not fertile and cannot be made fertile through organic means, the project is exempted from Appraisal – 1 (Optional for 1 points).
To exempt the project from Appraisal -1 (Optional for 1 points), please submit the following:
- Soil fertility test report indicating that it is not fertile and cannot be made so.
2) Compliance
Compliance – 1
- Submit fertility test report of topsoil from the site conducted by an ICAR-accredited laboratory, mentioning that the soil is fertile (Refer Appendix 2B).
Compliance – 2
- Submit calculations indicating the total quantity of soil preserved and used in landscape activity post construction.
Compliance – 3
- Submit site plan (.dwg format) highlighting the areas of excavation and preservation of topsoil.
Compliance – 4
- Submit copies of receipts/challans in case topsoil is transferred to nursery for holding and subsequently recovered.
Compliance – 5
- Upload date-stamped photographs with description of the measures implemented.
By considering these criteria, land managers and policymakers can make informed decisions to protect and preserve topsoil for future generations.