Effect of the Hydrological Keyline Design on the Growth and Quality of the Naturalized Grassland in the Dry Central Zone of Chile

The effect of climate change in the central, semi-arid zone of Chile has altered precipitation patterns, shortening the growing season of the naturalized annual grasslands and reducing forage yields. Water harvesting techniques such as the hydrological keyline design, may improve the distribution of precipitation, reduce erosion, and enhance soil water harvesting. It may therefore reduce the impact of climate change in rainfed areas. A trial was implemented to evaluate the effect of the keyline water harvesting practice on soil variables, and pasture production and quality in three farms of the semi-arid O\u27Higgins region. Rains began in April and amounted to a total of 399 mm. Pasture species germinated in August, and growth peaked in October. The keyline design influenced soil moisture and temperature, crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber, and acid detergent fiber of the grasses. Yields varied between months and locations. Overall, keyline management significantly increased compressed forage height and yield by 44 and 25% respectively, relative to the control. Considering that there was an effect of location it is necessary to determine the effects of variables such as soil fertility, slope, and orientation, among others