Analisis Laju Infiltrasi di Bawah Tegakan MPTS (Multipurpose Tree Species) di Arboretum Kampus 2 USU Bekala

Abstract

Infiltration is the process of water entering the soil from the surface. Infiltration plays an important role in the hydrological cycle because it helps regulate water distribution in the soil. Multipurpose Tree Species (MPTS) have important ecological benefits, one of which is regulating hydrological functions. This study aims to analyze infiltration rates in various MPTS stands and the relationship between soil physical properties and infiltration rates at the USU Campus 2 Arboretum in Bekala. Infiltration rates in the field were measured using a double ring infiltrometer. The Horton model and the Kostiakov model were used to analyze infiltration rates for each stand. The results of the models were then tested using the Nash Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) tests. The highest average infiltration rate was found in the durian stand at 11.24 cm/hour, while the lowest average infiltration rate was found in the rambutan stand at 1.88 cm/hour. Organic matter content and sand fraction were the strongest factors influencing infiltration rates. Silt had a strong negative relationship with infiltration rates. Bulk density and initial moisture content did not have a significant relationship with fc and f0. The NSE and RMSE tests showed that the Horton model provided better estimated infiltration rates than the Kostiakov model. Sand fraction had a positive correlation with fc and f0.