Survey of the damage in the Ifugao Rice Terraces and its environmental dynamics

Abstract

The world famous Ifugao Rice Terraces in the province of Ifugao, Philippines has been declared by UNESCO as a "World Heritage Site" in 1995. However, its physical condition has reportedly been fast deteriorating. To better understand this problem, a comparative study was done on the two sites of the Rice Terraces and how they are being managed. Degradation of the Rice Terraces was not only limited to the destruction of terrace dikes, but also included changes in the chemical properties of the soil, as well as the social and economic values of the terraces. The destruction of dikes in Bocos, Banaue was nine times higher than in Nagacadan, Kiangan. The primary destructive agent was perceived to be an extraordinary species of earthworm, although insects such as crickets and ants may have also contributed to some extent. The effect of earthworms on dikes may be further aggravated by water supply, typhoons with strong rains and a strong earthquake in 1990, which may have destabilized the terrace slopes.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Agricultural Scientist

ISSN

317454

Page

133-137

Document Type

Article

Subject

Banaue, Environmental dynamics, Ifugao Rice Terraces, Kiangan

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS