Preface· TECHNICAL REPORT on the PROSPECTS for AID ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE to Nco Asentat~IENTOS in the NORTHERN PROVINCES of GUANACASTE and ALAJUELA

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Preface· TECHNICAL REPORT ON THE PROSPECTS FOR AID ECONOMIC ASSISTANCE TO nco ASENTAt~IENTOS IN THE NORTHERN PROVINCES OF GUANACASTE AND ALAJUELA

February 1 ~ 1982

Representatives of the USAID Rural Development Division and two soils specialists from tl1e University of Florida~ Gainesville, developed this re port in an effort to identify possible future project opportunities with TTCO in the northernmost areas of the provinces of Alajuela and Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Site visits were made during January 11-15, 1982. The Florida team \'1orked under Task Order No.2, Technical Services to Missions Contract, LAC 0000-1-00-1040-00. Part 1 of this report consists of general observations by the ROD staff on the region visited. Part 2 includes the recommendations of the University of Florida team, Professors Hugh Popenoe and William Prit~hett. Part 3 is the detailed analysis completed by the Florida team under Task Order No.2. Part 4 is an annex of soil test results from the area vi sited,.

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Opin;ons reflected herein are generally those of the Contractor and should not be understood to represent official policies or attitudes of the Agency for International Develo·pment.

BEST AVAILADLE COpy Part 2

Summary of Recommendations The following is a sunmary of general recommendations, based on soil conditions of the twelve locations visited by the USAID/Costa Rica University of Florida team. It does not provide specific recommendations for each colony, because these can be obtained from the Report (Part 3)~ Rather, it is a first step toward an agronomic analyses of the northern regions of Costa Rica. A. Crops: 1. Basic Grain Crops: Corn, beans, and rice were planted in every area that was visited, although not on every farm.' Farmers in all areas exhibited a general lack of specific knowledge regarding appropriate varieties, planting dates and general agronomic techniques. Corn and beans; root crops such as Cassava (Manihot esculenta), malanga. (Xanthosoma saggittigolium) and plantains (Musa spp.) form the basic diet of the ITCO colonists. In general, the colonists could be considered as half-time, subsistence farmers that expend five to six months of the year worki ng for a sal ary that permi ts them to earn cash to meet a large share of the needs of the family of five to six members. Since many of the colonists are livestock farmers, a large share of their expenses involve the purchase of basic grains for daily consumption. 2. Root and Special Crops: These crops were found on most every farm of all areas visited, although they were generally grown for home consumption only. Production of the following types of root crops could be increased in most areas, if industrialization or export facilities ~'/ere ptovided. a) Cassava or yuca (Nani hot escul entaL tiqui sque, mal anga, cocoyam {Xantho~ome sag; ttifol i urn, E. atrovi rens, et a1. J \-li 11 requi re deep ~ well-drained soils, but taro (Colocasia esculenta) will grOl'l Itlell in \'Iet areas, such as fCJnd in Alajuela. Ya~s (Dioscorea olata) maybe considered for some areas close:::-;: to Sta. Rosa de Cutris. c) Macadamia (Macadamia integrifolia and M. tetraphylla) will thrive at several sites in the study area, according to OFIPLAN reports. Areas providing the best growing conditions for macadamia are apparently near Upala, Cutris and Guatusos; however, field testing will be required before embarking upon large-scale production. d) Peji baye (Bactri s gas i paes ), a palm whose fruiti s aneXcel lent source of protein and whose terminal shoot (heart) is used as a kind of ve~etable, has a ready market. The northern region of Alajuela province pre sents most of the conditions for pejibaye growth. It requires well-drained and well-aerated soils. It is intolerant of competition by intercropping, in the usual sense, but a system that includes pejibaye, cacao and black pep per is being tested by the Ministry of Agriculture, the University of Costa Rica and the Banana Growers Association. Pejibaye grows well in association with laurel (Cordia alliodora,.l. 3. Spi ce Crops:

There are many field trials unden~ay and considerable literature has been accumulated on the possibilities of spice cro~s in Costa Rica. Con sequently, only three of the most promising species will be mentioned, along with the recommendation that a search of the literature be first instigated and then field testing initiated in areas that appear to hold the most promise of success. a) Nutmeg (Myristica fraguns) b) Black pepper (Piper nigrum) will require reasonably well drained soils or beds to promote aeration.. It requires a wam climate and ·partial shade and grows- well usingcoconut or a legume, such as- ~ .. heteroptira or madera negro--(GTirfcidia sepium), used locally as fence posts, as nurse crops. c) Ip~cachuana or ipecac (Cephach.12- ipecaVlaha) gro,:/s \·/ell in --'deepshade-on--the forest floor- in less humid areas of the Upala region. Market prices are up to ten dollars a pound. It is native to the area, but field tests are needed to determine best agronomic practices for its culture. 4. Fruit Crops: There are a number of frui t and nut trees and shrubs that can be grown in the northern regions, in small groupings or as interplantings with other crops. Most require well-drained soils, but many can be grown in either

province, if drainage ~s provided in wet areas. Nonethpless, it is convenient to list them by the province in which they can be expected to grow best. a) Dry zone fruits include mango, avocado, citrus of various types, jack-fruit,-cashew and a number of other tropical fruits that could be grown under irrigation dlring the dry season. b) Wet zone fruits included grapefruit, lime, orange, papaya, pejibaye, suari-nut or butter-nut (Caryocar nuciferum), coconut, velvet apple (Diospyos discolor), chicle (Archaras sapota) for fruit and gum as well as timber,mamey (Mammea americana), and zapote de Colombia (Matisia cordata). Rubber (Heavea) is also adapted to the moist tropical life zones common to northern Alajuela. 5. Forest Tree Crops: Reforestation of steep and erodable soils should be considered a key phase of any colonization projects in the northern regions. In the wet zone, particularly in the Guatusos, Upala and Cutris areas, laurel (Cordia spp.) is well suited to agro-forestry or silva-pastoral projects. It grows well on grazing lands, regenerates well after primary forest removal and it is an excellent shade for cacao. Jacaranda capaia and

5tryphnodendron excelsu~may also be included in this category. . Othe~ trees.-of timberquaTity, but- of variable gro'llth rates, worthy· of testing in plantations are lagartfTTo (Zanthoxylum sp.), barbas chele · ._--~-~ -~- .:"':---;""':" (Voehys;a ferruginea), coeobola (Dalbergia sp.), plate.no (Vit§x coo.p~Ii.iJ,' -- -,-- danto (Reupala complicata), chirraca (Myroxylon balsamum var. pereirae), aguacat'illo (Nectandra globosa), cristobal (Platymiscium pinnatum) aceituno (Simaruba glauca), caoba (Sweitenia macrophYlla) and fruta dorada (Virola koschnyi). All of these species are native to upland sites in the region and most grow rapidly to merchantable size under managed conditions. Exoti c species worthy of testi ng in reforestation projects in the area are teak (Techona grandis), pine (Pin~caribeae var. Hondurensis) and eucalypt (Eucalyptus deglupta). 6. Pasture Crops: Recent work at CIAT, and by pasture management specialists with the Ministry of Agriculture, indicate that there are alternative systems of improving grazing in the Upala-Guatusos region. In the flood plains close to Los Chiles, the aleman grass (Echinochloa pblystachia) and/or Paragrass (Brachiaria mutica) mixed with kudzu or species of Centrosema has given good results, but these 'and similar grass-legume mixtures need to be tested further in the area. In areas with a pronounced dry period of three to four months, tne combination of pasto San Juan (Setaria spp.) and a legume, such as some varieties of Desmodium, are recommended. On well-drained terraces, Brachiaria nuziziensis has given good results. Field testing is needed in all areas on such aspects as (a) legume adaptation to site, grazing tolerance and seed production; and (b) tests on

comp~~ible grass-legume mixtures, time and rate of seeding and fertilization are a1sonee de d. B. Research and Extension Needs:

_____ .__.__ .,. WhJle soil and crop management prabl ems of- the northern regi ons of --~=

- , ____.~-.:_~_,~~.:Costa Rica 'are ,not greatTy'-dlfferentirom many other areas of the humid tropics, results of research conducted in other countries or oUler regions of" Costa Ri ca, for that matter, cannot be' transferred in toto \'Jithout some prior:·-.:·...:: on'-sii:etesting. -It is recommended that suggested crops, or cropping syste-li;S~~':-=--.-: be tried on a number of soils and sites before large-scale operations are initiated. These test should include species, date of planting, fertilization and other management techniques. Many of these tests can be conducted by extension-type personnel .. At any rate, there needs to be a well-defined extension program to teach farmers at the ITCD settlements to produce basic food crops at more than thesubsis- tence level and to incorporate into a farming system, such crops as fruits, cacao and other tree crops and forest trees--both for timber production and soil conser.vation purposes. Perhaps, overshadowing the agronomic limitations of the area are needs for infrastructure, of which roads must hold a high priority. Credit available at the time of need for purchase of seed, fertilizer and other chemicals, and av~i1ability of dry-ing and processing facilities closer to production areas will diminish the risk presented by high humidity, rain and transportation costs.

:.--~ Part 3

SOILS AND THE AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT POTENTIALS OF SOME NORTHERN AREAS OF COSTA RICA CONTENTS

1. Introduction 2. Northern Guanacaste 2.1. San Dimas (Location 1) 2.1.l. Geology 2.1.2. Cl imate 2.1.3. Soils 2.1.4. Li mi tati ons on Deve 1opment 2.1.5. Recommendations 2.2. Murcielago (Location 2) .2.2.1. Geology 2.2.2. Climate 2.2.3. Soils 2.2.4. Limitati ons on Development 2.2.5. Recommendations 3. Northern Alajuela 3.1. Old Terraces (Oxic Dystropepts) 3.1.1. Llano Azul (Location 3) 3.1.1.1. Geology 3.1.1.2. Cl imate 3.1.1.3. Soils 3.1.1.4. Limitations on Development

,. , 3.1.T·5.RecoITil1endations· . - -,-- _.~ .... _. -- - ._-...---.."." ~.-_.. ~-_.

3.1.2. Pavon"" (Location 4) 3.1.2.1. Geology 3.1.2.2. Climate 3.1.2.3. Soils 3.1.2.4. Limitations on Development

3~1.2.5. Recommendations 3.1.3. Botijo (Location 5) 3.1.3.1. Geology 3.1.3.2. Climate 3.1.4.3. Soils 3.1.4.4., Limitations on Development 3.1.4.5. Recommendations 3.1.4. Tres y Tres (Location 6) 3.1.4.1. Geology 3.1.4.2. Climate 3.1.4.3. Soils 3.1.4.4. Limitations on Development 3.1.4.5. Recommendations 3.2 Alluvial Plains (Aquic Dystropept) 3.2.1. Tialesde Buenavista (Location']) 3.2.1.1. Geology 3.2.1.2. Cl i rna te 3.2.1.3. Soils 3.2.1.4. Limitations on Development 3.2.1.5. Recommendations

3.2:2. -.tlanura de los- Guatusos· (Location 8) -._.- .--' ._ .. _------. ------_.-.-.. 3.2.2~1. : Geology' 3.2.2.2. Climate 3.2.2.3. Soils 3.2.2.4. Limitations on Development 3.2.2.5. Recorrrnendations 3.2.3. Los Chiles (Location 9) 3.2.3.1. Geology 3.2.3.2. Climate 3.2.3.3. Soils 3.2.3.4. Limitations on Development 3.2.3.5. Recommendations 3.2.4. Los Ingenieros (Hydric) (Location 10) 3.2.4.1. Geology 3.2.4.2. Climate 3.2.4.3. Soils 3.2.4.4. Limitations on Development 3.2.4.5. Recommendations 3.3. Volcanic Ash Soils (Typic Dystandept) 3.3.1. Finca Armenia (Location 11) 3.3.1.1. Geology 3.3.1.2. Climate

3 . 3. 1 . 3• So i 1s 3.3.1.4. Limitations on Development 3.3.1.5. Recommendations 3.4. Wet Bottomland (Typic Tropaquept) 3.4.1. Medio Queso (Location 12) 3.4.1.1. Geology 3.4.1.2. Cl i rna te 3.4.1.3. Soils . ' -,._" -_...... , _._--- -_. - . .. -.~...-- ~ . -- -- .. - '. . - . -,-- ---." --, .. .., ._.__ .._.-...•.... _------~._--_.- ..- --_._~..~.. 304..1 .4. Limitations.. on Deve10prnent

J.4. T.5. Recommendations. ,'-.~::::=-:: ~

-- . T.lntroduction Representatives of the University of Florida and of USAID/Costa Rica Rural Development Division inspected several colonization projects of the Instituto de Tierras y Colonizacion (ITCO) in the northern regions of Costa Rica, during the week of January 11-15, 1982. The purposes of the inspec tions were to study the soils and other physical resources of the existing projects with the view of determining which projects held the greatest potential for success and \'Jhether further investment in capital and technical' assistance is warranted.

It should be pointed out from the beginning that time ~Iennitted only a very superficial examination of the soils and other resources of the projects and that the conclusions contained in this report are based, in large part, on information gathered from several prior studies made of the geology, climate, soils, and land use capability of the northern regions and personal

.. - . interviews with scientists that are aware of soil management and agronomical aspects of the study area. Most of these existing reports and maps, listed in the References section of this report, were not as detailed as needed, but they were, nevertheless, of significant help to us. It is evident, even from a cursory inspection, that Costa Rica has extensive areas of under-developed and under-used land resources in her northern regions. It is equally evident that the causes of the slow develop ment of these lands are related more to infrastructural and socio-economic factors than to soil properties. Although there are considerable variations in the production potentials among these soil areas, perhaps the most striking differences are in the capital and labor that will need to be .. .• .... invested.,-~·if~Jhese "sons are to reach thei rfull potential. ..._._-- . ,. -'.. ~. - -.. . - _. ""--., - _., ~, - .. . - ..... _~_._., -'~ .. ~- ._..~-... _.. ,-,,.--~-, .. "'.. "",.-- ,.- .'- ---_ .. -., --~~ ~_ .. _._"._. -- _.-.-._ .....-- .~ .. ~-- -~"""_•. ---- _--_

. . as infertile and erosive soils, poor cfi'ainage, and numerous pests, are to be -2-

~:~,-:"foundiritllese·al~eas: -AHhough relatively large areas of soils in each re~riO{[·~_c possess properties favorable to crop production, there are a variety of limitations to their intensive use. In the nco colonization projects visited (See Figure 1), the limitations are quite distinct between the northern Guanacaste province and those of northern Alajuela province. Lack of sufficient moisture during extended periods of the year, steep and shallow soils that are difficult to mechanize and subject to erosion under cultivated conditions, and low and/or unbalanced contents of essential elements, parti cularly nitrogen and phosphorus, are common to the western slope. On the other hand, insufficient drainage, poor physical conditions, and pests appear to present the greatest limitation to use of the alluvial sedimentary soils of the llanuras. Nevertheless, if properly managed, these lands, or at least large areas of soils within the regions, can be farmed successfully, provided there is adequate infrastructure to make it economically attractive. Farm to-market roads are essential, and in some areas they are now completely lacking. Easier credit is often needed in order for the farmer to purchase improved seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides; and these inputs must be made available to the farmer in a timely fashion. Storage and drying faC'ilities may be required to enable the farmer to take advantage of better market conditions. Certainly, sufficient land and incentive must be provided so that the colonizers are more than subsistence farmers, but significant contributors to the economy of the country. This goal is possible only by growing sufficiently large amounts of marketable products to off-set the costs of the projects. Research data on agronomical aspects and cropping systems that include trees and/or forests are needed now, and simple field -experiments-shouldbe.partof any long range development scheme of the ------"-'--. -_._- . ---=-~~

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. jects'ano"6th"er areas "of the northern region of Costa Rica. 2. NORTHERN GUANACASTE Only two rTCO projects were inspected in the northern part of Guanacaste. These two projects differed quite markedly in soil properties, but they held many other properties in common, including the climate. Neither of the two projects contain sufficient areas of soils suitable for intensive use by large numbers of fami 1ies, but they both hol d potential for much more effective use than is presently being employed. 2.1. San Dimas (Location 1) The colony is located in the extreme northwest corner of Costa Rica only a few kilometers from the Nicaraguan border. It is situated on gently rolling slopes and the alluvial bottom land of a small valley. 2.1. 1. Geology: The geology of the areas is generally dominated by cretaceous sediments and volcanic materials of later origin. The predominant type of base rock is pure limestone, varying from white to gray in color, massive but strongly fractured. Associ ated with these calcareous materi al sare con glomerates of gravel and sand derived from diorite, basalt, and diabase. The bottom lands are covered with recent alluvium derived mostly from the Rivas-Sabana Grande formation. The general relief is low hills with gentle slopes, most of 5 to 10%, but strongly dissected in places with steep, eroded landscapes. The elevation of the area varies from 25 to 50 meters above sea level. 3.1.2. Climate: The climate of the area is classed as sub-humid tropical . . The area does not suffer the prolonged dry period of much of Guanacaste, ..

because the Cordillera del Guanacaste does not extend i hto thi s area and> ._--_-"';;....- thus', there ;5 no·t-rainshadow" whicil results from the interception of the . -~-'----: prevailing trade-winds. The mean annual rainfall is about 170 cm, and the -4-

Because of the low elevation and the proximity to the sea, the temperature does not fluctuate greatly among seasons. It varies between about 25 to 28°C with a mean annual temperature of about 26°C. Perhaps more important than either mean rainfall or temperature from the standpoint of crop production or the need for irrigation is the potential for evapotrans piration. In this case, relatively high winds and clear- skies during a significant part of the year result in an average potential for evapotrans- . piration of about 210 cm. This leaves a deficit of some 40 cm of water during the three or four months of the dry season. Year-around cropping, or cropping during this dry period, can be successful only under irrigation on the higher area. A relatively shallow water table makes for a favorable situation for local irrigation. 2. 1. 3. Soi 1s : Soils of the alluvial valley are dark gray (l0 YR 3/4) silty clay loams grading to yellowish brown loamy clay or clay, beg'inning between 15 to 30 cm. Yellowish-brown mottling and the near absence of grass roots in this zone indicate poor internal drainage. These soils would most nearly be classed as Ustic Dystropepts. They have a high base status with a pH of about 5.6 and should support improved grass-legume pastures with a minimum input of fertilizers, but they would require some attention to drainage, as well as fertilizers, for the production of most annual crops and sugarcane. They are low in phosphorus and potassium but well supplied with calcium and magnesium. Soils on the gentle slopes range from Dystropepts to

Ustic Haplustalfs. These soi 1s are very, erodab1e and shoul d be kept pro- . .•-...... "'--~""--y-..1 ------_.-. - -;: -~<:::;~7=7.;;:;::;:;

_. __ ,~",o., _~_. ,te_~!ed_L_!~~._~_~e~,~1~,~__~_~opes_',~!?~2?~;} ,sh~u! d be kept in improved pasture'or _,-: _

-_._--_.- ..- .- -_ .. --_._.-.-._------_ .._._-_.-- -- - permanent tree crops, whiTe the steeper slope's' should notbe expose-d'to- ,- the eroding forces of heavy rains or grazing cattle. r -;) -

- .. . '··-·'iA.4:-'· LiiilHa~tion-s' on 'DeveTopment: -"., _. -"",,",",,',_... The greatest limitation to intensive use of the alluvial valleys appears to be drainage.' These areas are probably too wet for deep rooted tree crops, such as oil palm, but could be used for annual crop with some attention to surface drainage (internal drainage of these fine textured soils is very slow and tile drains would be both expensive and ineffective). Soils of the slopes and terraces are subject to extensive erosion, if unprotected. They are generally shallm"1 and stony, and woul d require applications of phosphrous and nitrogen fertilizers, if used for perennial tree crops. 2.1.5. Recommendations: This property has the potential for a successful settlement, producing agronomic and permanent crops. The gently sloping valley soils can be used for such annual crops as rice, corn, beans, and vegetables, if surface drained. They also appear to be suitable for sugarcane. A number of tropical fruit crops, such as mango, avocado, and citrus could also be successfully grown here. The soils are presently producing good pastures (Figure 2), but they have the capacity to be used more intensively' to support a larger number of people, and a limited investment to accomplish this goal is warranted.

2.2. Murcielago (Location 2): This settlement occupies a broad plain (1 to 2 kilometers wide) between the Bay of Caujiniquil and a series of low mountain peaks of the Cerros Santa Elena). The cooperative contains about 2500 ha in total of which approximately 1,500 ha are nearly level (.(5% slope) and suitable for the use "of machinery .

. 2.2.1 •. ~o]ogy:

."--,,"~;:'.::-.-':,.. ~~.,... The property of the settlement contains two areas of flat to gently sloping plains surrounded by deeply dissected mountains 'of tertiary Figure 2. A native grass pasture in on alluvial valley of the San Dimas area.

- ••.•o_~ _._." ,. _.__ -,-

'_~rock .. ~.containing1imestone and conglomerates of the Rivas-Sabana Grand~.. :_:~~~ fonnation. The alluvial materials of the plains are of recent origen from the surrounding mountains. Because they are only 10-15 meters above sea level, some of the soils may suffer from salt water contamination at time of high seas. The ground water is generally less than 8 meters deep. 2.2.2. Climate: The climate is a semi-humid tropic. The area receives about 160 em of precipitation per year, but this rainfall is not evenly dis tr-ibuted. There are generally 4 to 6 months of dry weather. Because the potential evapotranspiration exceeds the rainfall by some 50 cm, irrigation is required for year-round production of annual crops. The mean annual ternperatureis about 27°C, with less ex- posure to winds than that of the Guanacaste plains. 2.2.3. Soils: The alluvial soils of the plains are high base Entisols or Mollisols, and they may contain sodium salts in places. They are deep, dark gray (10YR2/2), silty clay loam to loams containing moderate to high levels of organic matter. 2.2.4. Limitations on Development: This area has few limitations for intensive use that cannot be overcome with reasonable investments. The fields are nearly level, easily traversed by machinery, and adaptable to ditch irrigation. In fact, parts of the area have been previously irrigated with waters from a stream that bisects the property. Perhaps the most serious problem to the pro duction of annual crop is the possible presence of salt in parts of the property. These areas may need to be treated with sulfurand irrigated to . remove salts,.. but.this_ need not be a seriow;.-lirnitation. '.' .-- --,-·tand~-is-riot'[jefngLjsecf according to its potential since the Coop members that own the flat land are dedicated to cattle production ..7-

- _.... -, --".;... P---....•,a...... _ .... _ 'and the. <:olonos' grm" beans and corn on the hills. 2.2.5. Recommendations: This is an area of 1~500 ha well suited to inten~ive culti vation, within the li~itations mentioned above. It has the soils and water resources, and climate suited to the production of vegetables, soybeans, beans,

and other high value row crops. In addition, it is near good roads for trans~ porting products to national markets and to the sea and an airstrip for pos sible transport to international markets. This can be made an extremely attactive place to live, and there is the possibility of augmenting the income of the settlers by developing the area's fishing, salt production, and beekeeping potential. 3. NORTHERN ALAJUELA The ten settlements or areas of interest that were inspected and soil sampled 1n the northern part of the province of A1ajue1a have the common. properties of being imperfectly to poorly drained, mostly derived from old alluvial materials, and all have poorly developed profile characteristics, contain some weatherable minerals, and are classed as Inceptisols. There are four distinct sub-groups of soils with many common properties. These sub groups are: (a) Oxic Dystropepts - deep red or yellowish-brown soils, low in base saturation, associated with dark reddish-grey soils of poor drainage, and located on old terraces; (b) Aguic Dystropept - poorly developed acid clay soils, also on old terraces but generally at a lower level; therefore, drainage is more of a problem than with the Oxic Dystropepts; (c) Typic Dysfandept - deep dark soils derived from volcanic ash with a moderately. high level of organic matter, but low in base; (d) Typic Tropaquept - wet gleyed soils inundated for several months of the year, usually near the .coast.

niesesoi 1s. ate-presently used~-la'rge1yfor--extensive--livestock grazi ng,~-:,;';~= c.~.~.-;.:-:~:~ with a few scattered area of subsistence farming on the better drained soils. -8-

- Herchantabletill~)er has--mostly beenremuved (clear-cut) -even on steeper slopes where it should have been left uncut or else cut under some selective management systems, in order to protect the soils from excessive erosion and to sustain a timber supply for future generations. These areas present a number of problems for intensive agriculture. Perhaps drainage of excessive surface water is the most serious limitation for the area as a whole .. In addition, the soils are generally low in bases and fertility, and the organic matter content, which often ranges from 4 to 7%, can be drastically reduced under intensive cultivation. Nonetheless, there are areas within the northern llanos that hold considerable promise for the production of annual cash crops, as well as perennial and tree crops. Therefore, the properties and feasibilities of each area visited will be discussed individually. 3.1. Old Terraces (Oxic Dystropepts) Most of the better drained soils of the hilly lJanuras are placed in this sub-order. These deep red soils are derived from alluvium and residual materials on ancient terraces. They are often associated with soils of the Aeric Tropaquepts and Typic Dystropept suborders. They range from 90 to 500 meters in elevation, with a mean temperature of 24 to 25°C and a mean annual precipitation of 200 to 320 cm, with only a short dry period ( 0 to 4 months). They range in texture from silty clay loams to loamy clays and generally possess poor internal drainage characteristics. These Inceptisols are moderately acid, with low base saturation (See Appendix). The'soils originally supported humid tropical forest, but most are now in . grasses or shrubs. 3.1.1. Llano Azul (Location 3): 1hissettlem~Y1~,of 1712 hasupports 116 fam"i1ies of ilbout-_~-::-:~2

.~." •. _~ ._r'__ -_ __.. •_ _. _...._ --. ."_ _ ..._"_ .• -_-~. 15 ha "each: -The-cooperatfvQ--vJas,,:es tabl i shed-about 4- j'aars- ago' on- thifoll..e~~~~:~"~:~ Martin Finca. The settlers are mostly shifting cultivators (subsistence -9-

sugarcane~ pasture5..:£~'7 ~:,c c._ <-"-, farmers) 91'0\'/1 n9 such' cropS:. as bananas, taro .. beans, and __ although there was evidence that rice and other cash crops had been grown previously. 3.1.1.1. Geology: The geology of the undulating plains at this settlement is dominated by well weathered, old residual sedimentary material wjth some more recent alluvial and volcanic ash influence. The elevation of the area is about 100 meters above sea 1eve1. 3.1.1.2. Climate: The humid tropical climate of the area is characterized by more than 220 cm of rainfall per year with few, if any, really dry months. However, the greatest concentration of rain falls between July and November. The mean temperature is about 26°C, with a monthly deviation of only 2 to 3°C from this average. The mean monthly relative humidity varies from 63 percent in January to 95 percent.in October. The extended periods of cloudiness and thei r effect on 1i ght for pl ant growth, drying of the harvested crops, and pest control are problems that must be considered in selecting agricultural enterprises. 3.1.1.3. Soils: The deep, yellowish-brown (5 YR 3/3) soils of Llano Azul do not differ significantly in physical properties from those described above for the general area (Figure 3). The chemical properties (see Appendix) are characterized by very low extractable phosphorus (Olson's met'hod), low to medium levels of exchangable potassium, adequate levels of exchangable calcium and magnesium, and levels of extractable aluminum that are in the acceptable range (£0.3 me/1009). J.l.l A-. Liinitation?on Development:

:~~:-.~.-~:":_~:-=~'-:":::~":~-::.~:--::--:-.-:.--~~,; --~- ._- .... _. __ .-.--~'::.~'-.-.-:~:-:::'- ~-=~._--:~_._-'--_.~--.~.- --:" --- --_._. __ .. _--- -' ----.... ._... -.. -- .. ---.- ... ~~. -._:"~,;",, - "'-- .. -".------_._------_.~---, - -' . -_...'-- .. '-~~~ .. Major-limi·tations may be th~ high rainfaH-and -?~k~ humidity, insufficient light for certain crops, such as oil palm, inadequate "~_;"_- __:.r.-_-.

Fi gure 3. Deep reddish-brown Oxic Drystropept profile at the Llano Azul colony near Upala.

. ~--:~,~-.-.-.

---~-.,.,.-.-- -"---='...... --.-: ~~-~,~ -10-

-. .--- - -.---_. -- .-::-~:--:"':'-'':.:....:.:~-.:::::..::::.==-~ .·:-·.-drainage.-jI1-1o~·1 areas, and some limitation on the use of machinery. limitations can be overcome to a great extent by the selection of the proper crops and cropping systems .. Fertility problems can be overcome through the use of complete NPK fertilizers, with some attention given to micronutrients. 3.1.1.5. Recommendations: The 1712 ha of this settlement have sufficient soil resources to support an economically viable agricultural operation, including perennial crops such as cacao, citrus, and breadfruit on the gentle slopes, and forest trees on the more erodible slopes. Teak was noted to be growing quite well in small plantings in the area as shown in Figure 4, and it would probably do even better on the well drained steep slopes. This valuable timber species grows fairly fast and is an excellent soil conserving crop. Certainly teak, and other valuable hardwoods, both native (Cordia, Swietenia, Dalbergia, etc.) and exotics, should be tested in these areas. (Caribbean pine should also be tested). Annual crops such as rice, beans, sugarcane, peppers, and commercially valuable crops can be grown on . the more level terrain. It is recommended that several of these crops be tested in small plots, inlcuding different times of planting, seed varieties, and fertilizer treatment. In 1 to 3 years, there should be sufficient answers as to the best crop and cropping system to commence one or more economically viable operations. There must be sufficient production of the selected crop, or crops, in order to develop the market and infrastructure necessary to pro duce these crops economically. If this does not happen the colony will con tinue to be a subsistence operation, contributing little or nothing to the national.e<::onomy. _ '-~•. __0_ •• -

'-'.':"",,--~.-c • . ~- - .. _-- ._~.~.~:~~~:::;~E ~-~~--~i4t~~!:.~~~:t~0::r~~J;;~j~~E~~~:~~::::;B=~' ~ :..- : .. ~ -~~,:./-. -;-_~~.L-;'~:J~i3:~J:'.:~ ;::'~';::::~j ..~~-Z;!-iZ:•.':-':: :::::-':.-=:. :~:-:;;':. '.;._:;:~ ~~:;:'t ~ :::.' ~'.- S:~~:--: ~ ~ -~.__ v

Figure 4. Young teak (Tectona grand~) at Llano Azul.

'00. tI-

------.-.---~_- .,~.:~.·3~1.-2.PavO'n (Location 4): - ..• '~-:'-=':'::'~.~;:!!;';;::; This is an old ITCO (*) settlement located on deep reddish brown soil (2.5YR 3/6--0xic Dystropepts) of the ancient alluvial terraces of the llanura. It is found along the San Carlos-Los Chiles highway about 40 kilometer southeast of Los Chiles ona gently undulating plain. The area is almost wholly in native grass pasture of poor quality. It had been cleared of forest and cultivated for a number of years previously and there is evidence of severe erosion on the slopes. 3.1.2.1. Geology: The geology is similar to that of Llano Azul, which lies some 60 kilometers to the west, except that is dominated by re sidual material which has been little influenced by volcanic ash. It is less than 100 meters above sea level. 3.1.2.2. Climate: The climate is humid tropic with a mean annual

rainfall of approximately 220 cm, coming mostly during the r~ay to November period. The mean annual temperature is about 26°C with little variation from summer to winter. 3.1.2.3. Soils: The reddish-brown (2.5 YR 3/6) loamy clay soil changes slowly to a clay by 45 cm, without any notable change in color. The

soils appear to have lost much of ~heir surface layer and the high clay con tent would make the use of machinery very difficult during much of the year.

(*) Pavon,/ Botijo, and the Upala sites are not presently ITCO colonization projects. The legal aspects of land tenure were settled and are now under

.- - ... -. . "----_._---- __:private o\'.lnership~ :Th.ey.are, hO\'iever, examples of what could happen in area-s- ':~::.:~ :nolti in the process of-pass:ingto::private hands,in-regard ta-sudtaspects as-;:C~"-~;':~ forest management or preservation, grazlng, and cattle production. -12.-

--_..- _._--- _,_ The son is moderately acid (pH 5.9) and 1O\·r.in=-,,:-;\::~'5 base saturation. It is very low in phosphorus and low in other major nutrient elements. There is a possibility that zinc will become deficient under· intensive use. 3.1.1.4. Limitations on Development: Drainage is a problem during the rainy season on much of the area, for permeability of these soils is very slow. Erosion ap pears to have resulted from the high rainfall, low permeability, and removal

of the forest cover. High phosphorus fixation and l~~ fertility of the soil are other factors limiting the intensive use of this area. 3.1.2.5. Recommendations: It is recommended that the area be lLft in pasture, or else planted to trees. Tropical pine (Pinus Caribaea var.Hondurensis) and native hardwoods, such as Laurel (Cordia alliodora) should grow well, protect the soil from further erosion, and leave a legacy for future generations. No significant investment from AID is recommended, but reforestation should be encouraged. Fig. 5 shows resldual stand of laurel now in pasture near Guatusos. In addition to reforestation, a major effort should be made now to preserve much of the remaining rain forest that is left on less

well drained soils to the northeast of this property. This fore~t is often clear-cut from land not suited for cultivation. These areas should be left uncut and managed on some sort of sustained yield basis, while there is still forest to manage. Thi s may requi re some change in the 1aws of Costa Ri ca, because "land developers" are now allowed to remove the timber, without restraint, if it is done for the purpose of improving agricultural lands. (Fig. 6: 3.1.3. Botijo (Location 5):

. - -.---._- Thfs-is an- old Ifcb project where land titles where given :~~~--::~~~ -to some-60 ~fam-'ni e~~~ead~ of"' wh-ich- has- an all-otrr.ent. Qf" about 40 ha .•.-~clQcatecl::;~~·~ about 10 kilometers north of Santa Rosa on the Chiles-San Carlos highway in the Llanura de los Guatusos. The larger than average size of land parcels .-'-- - .--- --~..:-:-=..-,,~~.;.;;..:::::~~

Figure 5. Laurel left after clearing for pasture near Guatusos.

~ _.-....-.---..-'. '...... ,.", •... _,.....,

... ~~ ,_ .. -.-._.__._ .. _-- ~ ... _._-. --- __,_'::":r~ ,...---.:,,--'-...... ~,;::.~;;; ...._-~

12Q, Figure 6. Logging truck extracting timber from areas made accessible by newly-surfaced road near Pavon.

_, • --'-'~ .-:s '~r~ ~~-::.:"":-""'"'-:"-'-:,"'J'~_.~

12~ -13-

inthiscololw--results fl'om the emphasis on grazlIlg fOI' llvestock prodllct)6t~""'~'::':-" It is on rolling land with some steep dissection due to old erosion patterns. 3.1.3.1. Geology: The geology in this area, like that of Pavon,/ is well weathered sedimentary rock on the ridges and higher plains and old alluvium on the lower slopes and bottoms. However, the area is located on a

slightly higher terrace, at about 100 m above sea level, higher than the pav6h property. 3.1.3.2. Climate: There is little change in the rainfall or temper ature patterns from those di$crib~d for Pavorn. 3.1.3.3. ' Soils: The soils of Botijo are less eroded than those of some other parts of the ancient terraces (organic matter content is 5.8%).

This results from the fact that they have been out of forests for only ,~ or 5 years and have been kept in pasture most of that time. These Oxic Dystro pepts have a yellowish-brown (5 YR 3/4) silty clay loam surface, grading to a brownish-red clay by 45 cm. They have good surface drainage, as a result of the rolling terrain, and their internal drainage is fair. The soils are only moderately (pH 6.1) acid but of low fertility, particularly in phosphorus

and potassium. (Fig. 7) 3.1.3.4. Limitations on Development: High rainfall and attendant problems with erosion on ihe steeper slopes is a major concern. This will largely limit the use of the land to pastures and perennial tree crops. The low fertility of the soil will require annual applications of amendments for any intensively ';__ ~ !!1anCiged .. ~rop~ __.,_,,_:_,_ ,,:".__. _, ~ _,...__..

._--- ~--;..- .---.-- ._------.. --".------~----- ,,- --"- ._- --~- -- -"------,-.-. -- .--- _ _- . , .."., .- ... ,.~- ..... , .. ; .:- -'," .. . -3~l. 3. 5~-- Recommendations:- This area has moderate potential for development, and it is recorrmended that adequate investments be made to ensure successful ._--,- ---~.,--- "_':':'::.~~~-r~;:

Fi gure 7. Profile of soil developed on old alluvial terrace near Botijo.

';... :~:..-.:.~<:~-.;., ~~~"=~:--':':'=::~.": ------.....___----~_.:.....:._ ~_. L~ ...... -- <,",

-~"""---_. ------.."'._~._~_-.':o_...... 1+

,;productioii-:-of (a) tree Ci'OPS (forest trees on the mostel'odacle steep sto~~~ and other perennial crops on the less steep slopes. The latter could include citrus, plantain, pejibaye, pineapple, and cacao. (2) On the ridge tops and more level area, annual crops, such as corn, beans and cassava should be tried. (3) p.asture grasses, such as Star, San Juan, and Setoria grasses, with an admixture of tropical legumes, such as desmodiums, stylosanthes, and centrosemas included to increase the nitrogen supply, can be grown in any of the areas not suitable for cash crops. 3.1.4. Tres y Tres (Location 6) This settlement of 32 families with a total of 540 ha, is located 3 miles north of Santa Rosa. The colony was established about one year previously on land earlier used for pasture. Uke other soils on the ancient terraces of the plains, it has suffered considerable erosion since removal from forest, because of the hilly and dissected nature of the terrain. 3.1.4.1. Geology: The alluvial sed"imentary materials, which form the ancient terraces of the plains, are similar at this site to the three previous locations described in this section of the report. However, this site is at a slightly higher elevation (at 120 meters) than the others and

i~ more severely dissected. 3.1.4.2. Climate: The climate is described as humid tropics, with an annual rainfall of approximately 250 cm, reasonably well distributed through out 'the year. The temperature averages about 26°C with little seasonal variation. 3.1. 4.3. So ils : .-,:" - -- ._---"--- - ._.---~;..~...-"-~::.. ,,_<;~~:.~;~:~~ :~~ . Jflt~Oxj cDrystropepJ ha's suffered some __ sheet iA~I~~~~ <.:".. '-; ',-- -' ~..._.... - --'._-- -~'.''''-'' ,- ._._,_.~ .. _- , ,. - ~ gully e ro~;-;on''''butsti-ll-'''corttains-a~-reasonahle--amount of organ i c-matter-(6~6~~?:~~ The present surface soil is a: reddish-brown (5 YR 3/4) loamy clay which slO\'/ly IS

~-,---'_ ..- The internal drainage is_~~j~~_;_~

"- .'.. - -. -. ------appirentTy-poor-and -the soil 1s moderately acid (pH 5.9) arid infe-rElTe-.------There was evidence of a nutrient deficiency (yellow stripes on the leaves) in the young corn plants located in the burned-over field in which the sample was taken; magnesium and zinc were suspected of being deficient. The results of the analyses of the surface (0-15 cm) soil sample, given in the Appendix Table, indicates very low concentration of available phosphorus and potassium and moderately low magnesium and zinc. 3.1.4.4. Limitations on Development: The precipitous terrain, slow permeability of the soil and resultant suscepti bi 1ity to erosi on 1imits thi 5 area to penllanent crops. High rainfall and the acid, infertile soils are other problems that would have to be solved before the area could be used for intensively managed permanent crops. 3.1.4.5. Recommendations: Some 80 ha of natural forests have been left in reserve at this colony. The planners are to be commended for this foresight. However, a larger percentage of the total property should have been left uncut and managed for sustained yield. At this stage the steep slope should be reforested with tropical pines or hardwoods, the recommended species to be determined after some additional studies. The more gentle slopes of this settlement could lend itself to intensively managed perennial crops, such as cacao, plantain, pineapple, citrus, cassava, and other. However, care would need to be exer cised to keep the soil covered at all times to the extent possible, and a fertilizer program would have to be developed, varieties selected, and pests

-_.~ .,..-.;,,;:;,:;::~_?"l'---::<~' ,.... ~ .--' ~:-_: -:'::-_~:-:-'.:- , .. - ~. -.' . con-fro11~d:~~FuFfhermore;~i't~·l s"-recommended -that Tess- gentle-sl oQ'e-s-~sh'bui·cr~'c:"~-~~ . - .- ~_.. --- • -~-. ------.. * •.• -". ------...... ::':-':::;:~~-c~-:~-~:·~·~-;··-be-:-~lirit~-ci~i6~~f6f~=~t:_-t~~~-:-0~_~1-~e.~1:~;t-·~·~~~~:rn:ai.~~~i-m~r-;~~d-~-e~u~~~~ras~~~~~;~~

pasture. No major investment is warranted to accomplish this goal. Included in this category are a group of four settlements located on soils classified as Aquic Dystropept by Perez and Alvarado (1978) .. These soils as a group are fine textured, acid soils derived from alluvial material on ancient low terraces of the Llanura los Guatusos. Profile characteristics are poorly developed because of the generally poor drainage. The area pro bably had some ash deposits in recent geological history, but such deposits appear to have had little influence on present soil properties. These soils are extensively used for pasture, because of the difficulties involved in cultivating wet soils, even with nominal drainage. However, there are some reasonably well drained soils in this broad category which are successfully used for annual crops, as will be noted later. 3.2.1. Tiales de Buenavista (Location 7): The drainage basin of the R(o Fr(o has two major nco cooperative projects. One is at El Charco on poorly drained soils near Lago Cano Negro, about 25 k-ilollleters south of Los Chiles, and a second is located near Buenavista, some 9 kilometers north of San Rafael de los Guatusos. The first was inaccessible to the inspection party and only parcel No. 21 of the Buenavista project was visited. These areas are generally very poorly drained, but they are interspersed with low hills which possess sufficient drainage to permit annual crop production. The average size of farms in the area is about 12 ha. Most are used for livestock production, but the farm inspected was planted to corn, beans, and taro ina "eype of shi fti ng cul ti vati on system. Part of the area was in high forest, but this is probably a temporary condition, because forests of the area are being felled rather rapidly. Figure 8 is a photo- :'_-" __:"''-''::r_~'-?-';:~-'''~ - ... - --._+~-""""-~.-.------_._-...... ~ .....- -_~--."..,-......

. -._'_.---.-~--~._-,-_.,......

_.--_...... ,+._---_.• ----.- - ... _.- -._"---... '~_.,--.'.---'.-,-'--.- _..._---...... " .. --, +' ,,-' --- --

The geology is dominantly recent alluvium over old low terraces of residual material. The elevation, as at most of the sites lba

Figure 8. Farmstead at Tialesde Buenavista.

-.~.::..:.;.;.~:~.-:~ ::':-"'~--=.:::""~~_:"'-

~ "-.-- -_.~ -- - -.

-. -~~--'~.~,:._-.~ .. ""'"~ ~_~_~_ ...... e-o-t~·::...-:....._- __ -:.-~-:- .. . .. _-----_.-~:.:.:; ....;;:.__---__.:r_ ------.. ------.-. -17-

'.... ,,",-,~," in this'categor/, is' only aoout50-60 meters above sea 1evel . • ....., .•_ ..~_.~-=-~"- -- - . - ._------3.2.1.2. Climate: Climate of the humid tropics characterize the

area. The mean annual rainfall .i s 230 Clll, with no pronounced dry periods.

The mean temperature is about 27Q C wi th 1i ttle seasona1 fl uctuation. The high humidity and long periods of cloudy weather make for difficulty in drying harvested crop and in pest control. 3.2 •.1.3. Soils: The soils of the area are moderately acid yellowish brown (7.5 YR 3/4) silty clay loams in the surface with a slight increase in clay and is yellow color to 45 em. The soils are relatively fertile Aquic to Typic Dystropept when first cleared of forests. The field represented by first sample No. 7 (Appendix Table) had been cleared of forest for only about 1 1/2 years while that repre..;ented by second chance had been in cultivation for 5 years. The differences in soil pH and nutrient concentrations reflect the changes in fertility often associated with continued cultivation of humid tropical soils. 3.2.1.4. Limitations on Development: Drainage of excessive water.is the greatest limitation to the use of this area for intensive agriculture. The high rain fall and humidity make for rapid oxidation of soil organic matter and loss of soil nutrients after the soil is placed under intensive cultivation. However, pest control is likely to become as great as problem as the main- tenance of soil fertility, under intensive management. 3.2.1.5. Recommendations:

(1) Areas of remaining high rain forest shouldJ!E3.:i~'::~= c~::::~,::.c:_::,,~;:.~.:.'::.~~.~=:.~:~L}~~~ge-l~=:u~.~~i'~:~~~'~~tle-bettet-. draine~:~ t~r~a eel a~_d~.~ce~~~re~.=~~~~ ">:ff:~~=:~ ---..;-...-~....~ ... -~ -..;. -._--_::::---- . . -. othe'ru~~s~·"··Th~·re-is··ae,~-sjnatr-sawI11nr operatlhg-fn tile area al1er; t is TfKefE;g~=t-=:: the forest will soon be cut, without some control. Good stands of caobilla, ~18-

.- (2) The presently cleared areas and those better drained areas cleared in the future should be provided surficial drainage and placed in improved legume-grass pasture for fairly intensive livestock producti on. (3) The extreme isolation, and poor drainage and weather condition do not make for favorable conditions for intensive agriculture. The investments necessary in infrastructure, drainage, fertilizers, and pest control to make this a successful agricultural operation will yield a higher return in other areas. 3.2.2. Llanura de los Guatusos (Location 8): This rolling area, just northwest of the R(o Hern~ndez on the Los Chiles-San Carlos Road, is reputed to have been settled for as long as 30 to 40 years. The particular farm we inspected was said to have been cleared of tropical rain forest about 12 years ago. The presence of a few old citrus trees tends to support this contention. After a couple of rotations of corn and beans (2 years) with second-growth forest (2-4 years) the area was converted to pasture. The pasture area which was sampled con tain good growth of grass and many legumes of the desmodium and "1 up ine type". Whether they had been planted was not clear, but they were,;obviously doing very well. 3.2.2.1. Geology: Composed ofalluvium over ancient residual materials, the'area is sl ightly higher than other soils in this category and, conse- quently, better drained. 3.2.2.2. Climate: . ---;...:.:-~_-:.....:...... ,-:--~.:.. • '.--""'~~""''''I::':-;~~'''''';-':''-~. :;~:__ ···=~· __ ~~·· .. _._~u~f~~rop~~.~ft~ some 210 cm oT_~iinua 1 rai nfciJJ~;::';:'-:~cf~ areas of the 10'.-' alluvial plains of the Llanura de los Guatusos. ·.-... - --- .------' ... ,~-

---.--y:- ._- - ... _.._--;-.. ----~ .._- --=~...... -..--. _:_~~~". ~=~-~.~~-..;. ~~- - .-.~ ~ -,~ ...---.,--.<'---"'- -' , ..-,,-- -.,--'-~..,...",.~ ... ,~ The dark reddish-brown- (5 YR 3/3fsi-1ty ciay--' loam, gradually changes to a brownish-red loamy clay before 45 cm. It appears to have good internal drainage and is only moderately acid. It is best classed as a Typic Dystropept, rather than Aquic Drystropept. In spite of

evidence of erosion during thn dozen years of use, the soil appears to be rea sonably fertile, and could be rather easily cultivated. However, the analyses of the soil sample indicates that both phosphorus and potassium are low. The organic matter content of the surface 15 cm averaged 5.4%. There appears to be several hundred hectares of soils suitable for both annual and permanent crop. 3.2.2.4.· Limitations on Development: There are only a few limitations on the use of this area for intensive agriculture. They include the erodabi1ity of the rolling terrain, need for surface drainage on some nearly level areas, and the need for fe rtili zers • 3.2.2.5. Recommendations: This is evidently one of the more agriculturally favorable areas of the L1anuras. It is located on a good raac, appears to contain a fairly extensive area of relatively good soils (although the extent of the total area of good soilsis not known). It is recommended that an intensive system of annual and perennial crops be developed in lieu of the pastures presently occupying the site. Tree (fruit) crops, such as cacao, citrus, papaya, breadfruit, and others should be placed on gently sloping areas, or even on all of the ar.eas if necessary to develop an economically vi.ab1e program.. ," . _ -. "" __'-'oA·"""'_~'~"""".~-_~_"'_-"ii :·Oi1. pa1rnmfghfbe tried, aTthougn the .larg~·n~mber of c10udY·:d~Y;·~a§~edO(~~~~~~~~ - --'_.__ .~-'-'-"--""'--" ----~-~-, _.-,----, .. _ ..._------'-'--- --'--"--"-''"~ ------.,----_.._- ..._--._'--'--- _.. _------.. -.-_._-----_._._-_.-;--.,.;-~---_."'-,

, __ .~.~'... C~ .•• ,.__ ••_ .....,,-_,._ ·.:yie1ds .'. Suga rcane;may. i16Lpr:oduce.. much 5ucrQseJ)ec.allseoT the':hfgh rainfal:R'~E~·i:~f!:=: and small diurnal temperature diffe'rences, HO\'Jever, adequate glucose \'lOuld •_ ..::.. ·.·_:.-:-_7_..:-:...~· _ 420- - ." ,---,-",,-=-_-o-~_~..-.._

of vari ous types coul d be groi'm on 'the more 1evel areas, with- some surface-----·- dra i nage. 3.2.3. Los Chiles (Location 9) This property is located about 7 or 8 kilometers southeast of Los Chi les near the eastern swamps associated wi th the R(o Fr(o drai nage system. The area was apparently cleared of timber many years ago and is presently in native pasture with many shrubs. The area is poorly drained due to the low and nearly level elevations and slow water "infiltration rates. (Fig. 9) 3.2.3.1. Geology: Low alluvium of recent geological origin over residual material. 3.2.3.2. Climate: Classed as humid tropics, similar to that dis cussed above. Average rainfall is approximately 250 cm annually and the mean temperature is about 27°C. 3.2.3.3. Soils: The Aquic Dystropepts have poorly developed profile characteristics in general. These poorly drained soils are dark brown (10 YR 3/3) gradually changing to yellow-brown clay within 45 cm, with in tensivered~blue mottling at about 2 m. There is little evidence of erosion and the soil is only moderately acid. The organic matter content of 6 to 7% . reflect the poor drainage conditions of the area. 3.2.3.4. Limitations on Development: Lack of sufficient drainage poses the greatest limitation to the use of this area. Soil fertility would also need to be

..- .. ,-,.,~- ,-.,.--..""'" . <.- -- ..-. -~_.:.."''''.;.,., .:~- :,', ~-~-,. ~.'- , _- ,--.- "';:~'Pest-'to~nt-r6'ls:;-r:imitatlon:'onthe use of machinery~ ancfotlier problems:-comm.owl:~~~i'I -'::-:-'.--~-:~_._';':""'-; to high rainfall areas, must also be considered as limitations to develop- mente 20a

'-, ~-,.. ',- ...•. ~_ •. ,~- -...- .-.~~-----

.. ~-~----- '-::::~:'.1:'::r_~ w."~"-.~

Fi gure 9. Tall native grassland near Chiles.

..- . - ..-.~ -".- - -:.~--~=---..,...... ,,'-:-.--.------,--.

_:...-,..-...... ~-",.... ~~"-. , _._-"",-.-.. ---";-='~'-~ .~-=:"·=':-::77:""'--: <- :., ~:.•• _. -~ • 21 ..,., ....-"';~---~_.

~-'-'''''-''~ ~_". --:--.,-~.;- ,,~. .,. "::----.•"; •• ' ,- i. .. _ -.:""--.;_..."._,-.•.. _ ••..;-_••• --'.. 3.2-.3;.. 5• Recommendations: . -. -- _.~ .. _~~--~----_._--~-._-._--_. __.~-- _.- '-~-~--+--'-- The area should be planted to forest. trees or else left to extensive livestock production. No investment of outside funds seems advisable due to the high cost/return ratio. 3.2.4. los Ingenieros (location 10): This ITCO settlement is located directly across R(o Zapote from Upala. It is on gently sloping land of rather poor drainage. The settle ment contains 23 families, each with about 10 ha. Corn, beans, papaya, and rice appeared to be making good growth under a management system which includes cultivation and fertilization. Figure 10 is a photograph of a young bean field at this colony. 3.2.4.1. . Geology: This area is on a first terrace of the R{o Zapote( It is constituted of alluvium of varying age and some influence of volcanic ash in fairly recent years from volcanoes Tenorio, Micravalle~, R(ncon de la Vieja and others. The colony is approximately 60 meters above sea level. 3.2.4.2. Climate: The climate of the region is greatly influenced by the prevailing tradewind from the Caribbean sea. They result in a humid tropical climate at low altitude and produced up to 250 cm of rainfall and an average annual temperature of about 26°C. 3.2.4.3. Soils: The soils at the los Ingenieros settlement are dark brown (7.5 YR 3/4) silty clay loam in the surface 15 cm, but change to a reddish brown clay loam by 35 cm. They are poorly drained, acid, and of 10\'1 fertil ity. However, with proper management they were observed to produce good . '-_.. _~._-

• _._ -,--. _,....:"",.....=<:11"...... """- o~-::::·c: ~:~.;:~,,~:;_..:.:_~,g_r~~i_~:Et;~~~~:~~~D ~_~? ( ~f!5!':. e~tetl!!i~L crQP_, __ . T~e _bea_n_.ff~.ld vine re the'·' s.2il~ ~aJEPJf;;~_-=~ ." , - . _...... ~ ..-~_.~ .. - wa~·-,ta·~·~-n:-h~a:be~R-·--5~oa6€ist:fertlfized·w1th 30l}- kg/haof a--10-30-10fertil ~.~;-~~ about 8 days previously. The organic matter content averaged 5.4% in this cultivated field which had recently been cleared of second-growth timber. 2\a.

...... __.. _-- . -.;..--~.~ .. --.~. -"~

.. ~..~~~-Z~~::=~'~"';,:":

"',-~"~'-- -"

Fi gure 10. Young field of fertilized bean at Finca Los Ingenieros near Upala.

• .~._~ - •._ •.T

---.;...~., .. ;_.. ~ ~~ _ ••_. _. _~--'"-~.-r>l.....,..-"..;~, ....., ''''.- -- - -,- ,-.------

~~---- -, --_.-.~-.,

-~----~----.- ,'_- -...... '""-=c_,.~••. __ ~." .... .--_.. ~-~~-.-:-~~;-.:::.:.'~:.;- -22.- . ---. - ,-- - ,,;,;,-~,,-,"-=------,--

Drainage is the major limitation, but it should be accompl i shed without -great di ffi culty. Fertil ity is another 1imitation, as . are pest and other problems associated with high rainfall areas. The area lacks data on best varieties, planting dates, and general agronomic recom mendations related to the production of corn, beans, rice and fruits. 3.2.4.5. Recommendations: This land is gently sloping and should lend itself to intensive agricultural use with attention to surface drainage. On the basis of good crop growth observed, the absence of notable erosion, and the possibility of using machinery over a substantial part of the area, this settlement is suitable for -a number of annual and perennial crop and further development in this regard should be encouraged. Annual crops, such as rice, corn, beans and perennial fruit crops, as cacao, papaya, and citrus should prosper with proper drainage and fertilization. 3.3. Volcanic Ash Soils (Typic Dystandept) These dark, deep soils with a high content of organic matter and low base saturation, were derived from volcanic ash and lava and generally are productive soil. 3.3.1. Finca Armenia (Location 11):

Inhabitants of this 600 ha settlement of 27 parcels con taining about 15 ha each (only 23 are occupied), are chiefly engaged in

livestock production. It is a wet and isolated area (21 kilometers south west of Upala over some very difficult roads), and not very attractive to settlers. A farmstead at this colony is shown in Figure 11. 3.3.1.1. Geo logy:

~-:=_..:~,:"._....~;.~~;::~_--,:,-~:: __1he,-,.geol ogiof:.:cthis-__ 1ocatipn~js djsJjnCcf~fIonl __~!]Y~:;? =-7 ~. --'.~~ ~ .._~ .__ :.~, .,.;.. : -~'. _. "':~""--' _" - .. ,. ::.~ ...... _~~ -~:-:':-_._ .. _,:;-.-:--""_:> __ :.:..:... ~ __ . _.~ _,. __':::"':'-::'J':':::=':":",''::-~",:,,_~ .other settl ementyf5tted~--- Nestled-at the:- foot- of Volcano Mi ravalles-;: i t ':'--=:i€:~~.:::o::c- .... ~-. ~~-:;'??,.;;-=~,-:::..:.;:".. has a deep covering of igneous materials -- both ash and lava flows -- of recent ori gi n. Fi gure 11 • Farmstead at Finca Armenia.

......

---=-=.~:'":;;- - '-~-_.-~--~.--- -_.-~ ..- --~..

_._·_--_:;; ~,"-~.·_·'.L' -0::.£- ~--:::.":--:-_'~='_.~.--: -23-

~. __ . -_. ;-=--~.~-:-::-~ - -~_._._-:--._--- - ." ------". - .,...-.-.-. "'," -~---'-----~ --.-~,,:~ ------_ ...-----_. The elevation of about 700 m is sufficient to result in a cooling of the prevailing easterly trade\'Jinds as they approach the Cordillera Guanacaste. This results in a precipitation of over 350 em, much cloudiness, and a notable cooling of the temperature. 3.3.1.3. Soils: Soil properties reflect the unusual geology and climate of the region. They are derived from deep ash materials, contain many bou1 G2rS, and they are wet much of the year. They are c1 assed as Dystandepts, a separate category from the other groups previously discussed. The surface (0-15cm) soils is a dark brown (10 YR 3/3) silty clay loam and because the profile is poorly developed, properties change only slowly with depth to a yellowish-brown silt loam. The soil has good permeability, but because of the high rainfall, drainage can be a pro blem. The generally wet condition of the soils results in unusually high organic matter content (about 14% in the pasture soil). Leaching results in a rather low base saturation, although the soils are near neutral in acidity (pH 6.2). The soil has many desirable properties and would probably be used for coffee production in a less wet area. 3.3.1.4. Limitations on Development: The difficulties of using this area for intensive agriculture reside in the rocky nature of the soil, the high rainfall and cloudy condition, and the difficulties in maintaining farm to market roads

, and communications. 3.3.1.5. Recommendations:

The soils produce exce11 ent grass pasture, and :~-.:::;~~2c::;~~ ~.", .~ .. --",--o:--~ ..-_.' "=."legumes·cou..ld":'be-..:.grown--w-ttrrc-the--grass- as":' a'source--of soH ,- ni trogen .-,A· dai i°:F~:'~'~-:-7:~,,' :'-'--:~'~'~.'-:::.::.~~~:_"-'.;--"~"-~-- "~"-'-':- -." .. ~'=-':::":-~:=::~> ....~.:.._~:-~. -; - .. ----:-._~-::.:::.~--:::::~:_'-~--=.-<-'.:-_--_ .. __... __._-- -- .-. _.. _-.- -- -. - -' -- ---_.__ .~-:£:,~-:.'~":::?_~,=.~-~ enterprise'\'/Ould be Vlen:-:sl.l1ted for the area, it a market could be deveTopecfC::;~2":::,~;~. for the products. The isolation of the area makes this,a rather difficult, if not an 'improbable task. -24-

.. -_.~_..._---...... ~

-'...•" "'

~_?-·_·'~.~.L __ ; •.__~. __ ~_ . - - •.-.'" _.w-. ,., .... ~.• __-.. -~ -, '., ,.... ,< .. ,...-~_""T'"" .... ~_._, .._, ..... -... -..• -.,...-r---. .- ~., ,...-- .•- .----~._.-,.•-_ •• < ---"_••••• ---- '"-'" _ .• ---..---. ". -- -_.--- . --~.-.._....• _------_._------~-. -'-----_.,.. __ . small quantities for local use, although no vegetables were in evidence. Annual or row crops would need to be confined to the less precipitous slopes to avoid excessive erosion. In fact, some of these steep areas could well be reforested for soil protection purposes. Any crop selected for the area would need to take into consideration its capacity to produce under low light and high humidity conditions. All in all, the investment required to make this settlement a thriving agricultural activity would be too high for the returns that could be expected under present technology and infrastructure, in spite of many desirable soil features. 3.4 Wet Bottomlands (Typic Tropaquept)

VIet bottomlands or fresh water s\'lamps occupy extensive area of the drainage basins of rivers emptying into Lake Nicaragua. The soils of the areas that are permanently wet are· organi c soi 1s (Hi stosol s), but \·,here they are inundated only during the rainy (May-November) season they are normally gleyed mineral soils. 3.4.1. Medio Queso (Location 12): The village of Medio Queso is located on a terrace near the southern end of the R(o Medio Queso swamp. A mineral soil was sampled in a wet bottomland just west of the village. The organic soils which are reportedly found closer to Lake Nicaragua were inaccessible to the inspecting party. The area examined was being grazed rather heavily with Brahma and native cattle, although the level of the water tabl~ at mid-dry season was only 6 to 10 cm below the soil surface. Finca Chapula

-~-. -...'- - . ._-_.- ----~---.._.._-::- .._.- ._-- _._- - '~~""'~'~~-'-""'" --'---- .. _-.----.:.:~-""-:,;...>-:~;'~- . sampled:' _~::::_:E:~_~~ '""- < - '. <; -25- ,,, ·--·,.."..::~,c:::.c··:::'.~ --_.-" _ ._ ..'---- "'--.. -'~___'_'=".c,

--- These are fairly recent deposits of alluvial material carried in by the R(oMedio Queso during flood periods.

3.4.1.2. Cl i rna te : The climate is classed as the humid tropics, similar to other parts of the Llanura de los Guatusos. 3.4.1.3. Soils: The soils examined are heavily gleyed from periodic inundations and almost continuous saturation. They consist of acid, blue (5 G 5/l) clay to about 50 cm where a yellow clay, mottled with red and blue streaks, began. Internal drainage (permeability) is very slow. The soils are acid and surprisingly low (4.3%) in organic matter and fertility (see Appendix Table). 3.4.1.4. Limitations on Development: Excessive water is the major limitation to the development and use of this bottomland for anything except pasture. Drainage would be most difficult since the soils surface is only about a meter above the surface of the river during the dry period and the soil is flooded during the rainy season. Fertilizers would also be needed for more intensive use. 3.4.1.5. Recommendations: The area seems to be surprisingly successful as a livestock enterprise that has reportedly been in operation for 30 to 40 years. Part of this success derives from the two native grasses growing over the are8--- one that thrives under water and furnishes grazing to the livestock during the rainy season and the other dominates when the land is above water. However, it is difficult to imagine any other agricultural enterprise that

~ ...... _...-- . _., . _.----~~ ..---.--:,..-_.:,.-.. __ c-vlO'ul d be as successful as 1ivestod< production, without- excessfve- cap; fcl1~----"'::;_¥~~:':~ ~,,;;;-:.~_.:--_' --,-~_. . •.• ",-_: .. _.•.. _:_._.".~_",:....:.. ,_ , ... __•.r..,._.~ ... _.~~ .. ~ " __ .__ ~,._-- --.-- -' .. ". -"-.: .. _-,-. -- .. -_.~.- """-"::""-~'=- .... '::"_.'::_.~':_." ::_:~:: ~_ ~-=:---::".-.:c ~- ~_-~-'-' <~ -~-- ... _.. ~.' .. '.-.~- - "-Cc_C:'-'-__--- -- strne- nOt __ -, - -:--: -:--'------..:-, -- ---:; --- __-'c- ....:.:. _ .' ....-._-_._------rnve ~,.:-:2._';-_:_~:::=~ - ;:.: .•.. . .---=_---:.<~~~~~ .... :;..-,~.:. The 1ivestock enterprise coul d be improved by the use of fertilizers on the grass, but it would probably not be economical -2<)-

~~-~._-_. ~"--'--,-' -_ .... - .~._ .. -~.-. :_:'-==-=":-:~~beCaL(Se'.··Df:thelow efficiency of the material; . On- the other-hand,· th~~ute:.:.s~t~!~·~.:::.:::-= water buffalo as beef animal would seem to hold promise on these wet soils, and the incorporation into the grazing system of legumes, such as kudzu, that are resistant to the high water table and/or flooding conditions. This area is not an ITCO settlement now, but similar areas located at the Nicaraguan border zone are being considered for settlements. This is an area that requires field trials and a detailed soil classification because it is an important one for the future of the northern area of Costa Rica.

,--~- - .- ., -~~. . -,.--- '~'.- "'~.--' -'_...•. - .' -.- .". -. ' ....

------~------~.-. . ,~~_.;: __ ;-:..~~_...:.o.:...~ ..~

..".~__ - __·_.a._'-'...... ·.-._.P ~ ~..• '-:.,-..:.~.~~..:..~':~..:.., 27

1. C.C.1.1968. Investigacion preliminar de la Zona Norte de las pro vincias de Alajuela y Heredia, Costa Rica. Centro Cient(fico Tropical, San Jos~. 2. IFAM. Estudio de Desarrollo Regional, Vol. 1., Series 214. Instituto de Fomento y Asesor(a Municipal, San Jos€. (no date given).

3. ITCO. 1964. Estudio de la Region de Upala. Instituto ue Tierras y Colonizacion, San Jose. 4. Madrigal R., and E. Rojas. 1944. Mapa Geo~orfolbgico de Costa Rica (Escala 1:200,000). Oficina de Planificacion Sectorial Agropecuaria, San Jose. 5. OPNPE. 1981. Desarrollo Rural Integrado de la Zona Norte. Anexo 4. Oficina de Planificaci6n Naciona1 y po1ftica Econ6mica, San Jose. 6. P(rez S., and Van Gi nneken, P. 1978. Capaci dad de Uso del Sue10 (Escala 1:200,000) Oficina de Planificacion Sectorial Agropecuaria, San Jose. .. 7. Perez S., Ram(rez E., Alvarado A., and E.G. Knox. 1979. Manual Des criptive del Mapa de Asociaciones de sub-groupos de Suelos en Costa Rica (Escala 1:200,000). Oficina de P1anificacion Sectorial Agrope cuaria, San Jose. 8. Perez S., et ale 1978.· Mapa Preliminar de Asociaciones de sub-gru pos de Suelos de Costa Rica (Esca1a 1:200,000) Oficina de Planifi~ caci6n Sectorial Agropecuaria, San Jose. 9. Sadner, G. and H. Hahn. 1966. Estudio Geogrffico Regional de la Zona Norte de Costa Rica. Instituto de Tierras y Colonizacion, San Jose'. 10. SEPSA, 1981. Mapa de Uso Actual de la Tierra, 1977-1978. (Escala 1:200,000) Secretar;a Ejecutiva de Planificaci6!l Sectorial Agrope cuaria, San Jose: 11. Tosi, J.A. 1982. EnvironmeDta1 Profile, Costa Rica: Soils and Land Utilization. Centro Cientffico Tropical, San Jose!. 12. Van Ginneken, P., and J.R. Calder6n. 1978. Categor(as de Pendientes. Ofi cina de Pl ani fi caci ~ Sectori al Agropecuari a, San Jos({.

._...:_-~..:.:~:..::_____e_ - .. '~-'---~ ~-- ,- -.;p=-:. ~ ';".,.. '.. ..-. .- ·T.".'" • ~~;~_::;_':~~~1-:·':~~ ----~.. _-_-...-_._-_ .._- _.... _.~._..-'-'--'-" - -.--- --~._._ .. _---_._-_. __ ._----~------.-_._----~_.- --._._-._--_. ------.. _-. --- ___ , .." , ,~, - ',-' . .. .'. --~... , -. . .'.", ~ . ....• ", .. _ -. __ ,..._ .'_,'._ c.··· ",_' .-,.-. ------:--....~::.;:~:~.-:~:::. "'-~~'.<'-""--- - OTHER-SOURCES OF ASSISTANCE

a. Alvarado, Alfredo - Prof. of Soils, Faculty of Agronomy, University of Costa Rica. b. Bazan, Rufo - Regional Director, Instituto Interamericano de Ciencias Agricolas, San Jose. c. Bornamiza, Elmer - Prof. of Soils, Faculty of Agronomy, University of Costa Rica. d. Fuentes, Carlos - nco Area Director for Liberia. e. Garcia, Tomas - Property holder at the Murcielago Settlement. f. landsat Imagery, 2040-15163, March, 1975. g. Montes, Ing. - Assistant Director ITCO Projects, Santa Rosa. h. Perez, Samuel - Ministry of Agriculture, San Jose, Costa Rica.

i. Vasquez, Alexis - ~1inistry of Agriculture, San Jose, Costa Rica. j. Villalobos, Jesus - ITCO, Area Director, Upala.

.. - ".-., .. ~ ._.-.._ _,.~.- ..~.- .~ .. - -.- - .. ".- - . -, -,.~,~: .;~ r.'_c.~~".,~ ~.- .~--~. .~_.- ~~:~?~.~~~~~~:;~~::;_~::,::'~_- .• ._ -- ... .•,._"._ ... ••.•._. ,._ -.' .',_ - ..'••• -:•.•:' __ " .

..... ,:....:.._,~ ·_-._:.~-:I..:.....::;. ~_-:...._ ....:·. __ .~ ..• ~._:.- __ .. _..:..:. ._.. .-. -_.._.__' __• ._ : ~ .-__ .. _- ~ .._ .._ _~. • ,_~-_ _~ ~ __ ~_ .- - -~-_._ ... _~--"-~-.~ . . -----:~.';.:...;:,;--,....,.~ ---;_.- _..-._._--

'.- - --.. '- '.. --- ' ...... '---- ..--, .....- . - .~.• ~---."- ... ~ '.'- "._-'..~-~:: .-_.- ~-"-~'<-'~~ _.- ,- -- .- .. ---.,------.- App"endix Table (Part 4) ._. ~. " .~-~-~~~~~-~~~.i.:.'.:;.

Chemical Analyses of Soil Samples Collected by Univ. of F10ridall - meq/100 g soil -- ~g/m1 soil - % Location No. Place pH K Ca Mg Al P Fe Cu Zn Mn O.M. 1. San Dimas 5.6 0.15 15.5 5.2 0.20 3 80 7 5.8 30 4.7 San Dimas 5.8 0.13 27.5 7.6 0.60 1 12 3 1.4 32 3.1 2. Murcie1ago 6.8 0.19 16.5 16.4 0.10 1 12 4 1.0 2 4.7 Murcie1ago 7.2 0.74 30.0 6.7 0.10 20 12 3 1.4 1 4.3 3. Llano Azul 5.7 0.42 8.5 2.8 0.15 2 68 28 11.4 34 3.9 Llano Azul 5.5 0.21 6.5 1.8 0.10 2 74 24 8.8 25 3.9 4. Pavon 5.9 0.29 6.5 2.2 0.15 1 170 7 1.8 11 5.4 5. Botijo 6.1 0.18 8.0 2.0 0.10 2 128 7 2.2 8 5.8 6. Tres y Tres 5.9 0.09 10.0 2.4 0.15 2 152 8 3.4 10 6.6 7. Buenavista 6.3 0.98 8.5 2.1 0.15· 2 56 14 6.2 4 4.7 Buenavista 5.4 0.21 5.0 1.7 0.15 2 84 15 5.6 15 4.6 8. Guatusos 5.7 0.17 6.5 1.9 0.15 1 100 8 2.4 33 5.4 9. Los Chiles 5.6 0.09 6.0 1.7 0.15 1 124 7 1.8 25 7.4 Los Chiles 5.7 0.04 6.5 1.8 0.15 1 106 6 2.0 24 6.2 10. Los Ingenieros 5.4 0.10 6.0 1.7 0.15 1 72 10 1.6 21 5.4 11. Armenia 6.2 0.17 9.5 1.1 0.10 5 78 8 1.8 5 14.0 12. Medio Queso 4.8 0.04 4.0 1.0 2.40 6 +200 17 3.6 32 4.3

!I Soils were analyzed by Ministerio de Agricu1turea y Ganaderia Unidad de Sue1os. Soil pH determined in 1:2 soil-water suspension; while K, P, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn were extracted by a modified 01sen-EDTA solution; and Ca, Mg, and Al were extracted by N KC1. Organic Matter (0. M.) was determined by the Wa1kley-Black wet oxidation method.

~.:...-.-.:,.-.,'~--;-".'''''';';':-:-~ -_.-~-:...,.~--=.~------"- _ --=-.

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