Mindanao State University- Main Campus Marawi City

Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department

College of Engineering

Chapter 3: The Hydrologic Cycle

De Peña, Jenelyn
Medillas, Rizza Mae Z.
Vista, Jefson A.
Sultan, Hajiera B.

ABE147- Soil and Water Conservation

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of
Bachelor of Science in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Engr. Saanoding A. Balayo

October 2024
 Chapter 3: “The Hydrologic Cycle”

Different Concepts of the Hydrologic Cycle

The Hydrologic Cycle, also known as the water cycle, refers to the continuous movement
f water within the Earth and its atmosphere. While there is a general understanding of the cycle,
various concepts highlight different aspects of it:
1. Basic Hydrologic Cycle
Components: Evaporation, Condensation, Precipitation, Infiltration, runoff, and
transpiration.
Process: Water evaporates from the water bodies, forms clouds, precipitate back
to earth as rain or snow, infiltrates the soil, and either percolates to ground water or
returns to surface water bodies as runoff.
2. Global Hydrologic Cycle
Focuses on the global scale, emphasizing the distribution and movement of water
across the Earth’s Ocean, atmosphere, land, and ice.
Ocean-atmosphere interactions (e.g., evaporation from the ocean, global wind
patterns) and large-scale precipitation patterns (monsoons, polar fronts) are key.
It considers how climate change and other global phenomena alter the cycle.
3. Urban Hydrologic Cycle
Represents how water behaves in urban environments, influenced by
infrastructure like roads, buildings, and drainage systems.
Human interventions like stormwater management, sewage systems, and water
supply networks change natural processes like infiltration and runoff. The focus is on managing
excess runoff, controlling pollution, and reducing flooding risks.
4. Anthropogenic Impact on the Hydrologic Cycle
Highlights how human activities, such as deforestation, agriculture,
industrialization, and dam construction, alter natural water pathways.
Over-extraction of groundwater altered river flows due to damming, and increased
pollution are primary concerns in this concept. Climate change, resulting in altered
precipitation patterns and increased evapotranspiration, is a major focus.
5. Groundwater Hydrologic Cycle
Focuses on the movement of water below the surface of the Earth, especially the
aquifers.
 Key Processes include infiltration, percolation, and groundwater recharge, as well
as discharge through springs, wells, or seepage into rivers.
This concept also highlights the relationship between groundwater and surface
water systems.
6. Closed-Loop vs. Open-Loop Hydrologic Cycle
A Closed-Loop system emphasizes water recycling, where water is reused after
treatment (often in artificial systems or advanced water management techniques).
An Open-Loop system assumes that water moves though a one-way pathway
(e.g., from river to ocean without significant reuse).
7. Biogeochemical Cycling of Water
Integrates the chemical aspect of the hydrologic cycle by focusing on the
movement of nutrients and pollutants through water.
Emphasizes how water carries essential nutrients (carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus)
through ecosystems, affecting soil fertility, plant growth, and water quality.
Each pf these concepts focuses on different scales, components, and impacts of the Hydrologic
cycles, contributing to a more holistic understanding of water movement and its implications for
natural and human systems.
1. Precipitation- is a key component of the hydrologic cycle and refers to ant form of
water- liquid or solid- that falls from the atmosphere to the Earth’s surface. It is essential
for replenishing freshwater in ecosystems, supporting life, and driving various natural
processes. There are several important concepts associated with precipitation.
Types of Precipitation
Rain- Liquid water droplets that fall when the air-temperature is above freezing (0°C or 32°F). It
is the most common from the precipitation.
Snow- Frozen water in the form of ice crystals. Snow occurs when the atmospheric temperature
is below freezing, allowing water vapor to directly crystalize.
Sleet- Small ice pellets that form when raindrops freeze as they pass through a layer of cold air.
Hail- Large, round ice pellets that form in strong thunderstorms, where updrafts cause water
droplets to freeze and accumulate multiple layers of ice before falling.
2. Infiltration- is the process by which water in the ground surface enters the soil. It is a
crucial component of the hydrologic cycle, as it determines how much water replenishes
groundwater supplies versus how much becomes surface runoff. The rate at which
infiltration occurs and the amount of water absorbed by the soil depend on several
factors.
Factors Affecting Infiltration:
 1. Soil Characteristics
Texture: Sandy Soils have larger pores and allow water to infiltrate quickly, while clayey
soils have smaller pores and lower infiltration rates.

Structure: Well-structures soils (with good aggregation) have better infiltration compared
to compacted or poorly structured soils.

Porosity: The amount of Pore space in the soil affects its ability to hold and transmit
water
2. Soil Moisture Content:
Dry soils absorb water faster than wet soils. The more saturated the soil, the slower the
infiltration.
3. Runoff- is the portion of precipitation, snowmelt, or irrigation water that flows over the
land surface and eventually makes its way into streams, rivers, lakes, or oceans, rather
than infiltrating into the ground. It is a key part of the hydrologic cycle and can be
influenced by both natural and human factors.
Types of Runoff
1.Surface Runoff:
This is the water that flows over the surface of the ground when the soil is
saturated, frozen, or otherwise unable to absorb any more water. It occurs when the rate
of precipitation exceeds the rate of infiltration.
2.Subsurface Runoff:
Also called interflow, this is water that infiltrates into the soil but moves laterally
through the upper soil layers before it reaches a stream or river. It flows through
permeable soil and rock layers but stays relatively close to the surface.
3.Baseflow:
This refers to groundwater that slowly feeds into streams and rivers, providing a
continuous source of water even during dry periods. Unlike surface runoff, it happens
gradually over time and is not directly caused by immediate rainfall.
Soil Characteristics:
Texture: Sandy soils, which have large pore spaces, allow more infiltration and reduce
runoff, while clayey soils, which are less permeable, lead to higher runoff.
Soil Moisture: Wet or saturated soils generate more runoff since they can no longer
absorb water.
4.Evapotranspiration
Evapotranspiration is the process by which water is transferred from the land to
the atmosphere through two main pathways: evaporation and transpiration. It plays a
 crucial role in the hydrologic cycle, as it regulates water loss from the Earth's surface and
influences climate, plant growth, and water availability.
Components of Evapotranspiration
1.Evaporation: The process where water changes from a liquid to a vapor and enters the
atmosphere. It primarily occurs from bodies of water like lakes, rivers, oceans, as well as soil
surfaces.
Key factors:
Temperature: Higher temperatures increase the rate of evaporation.
Wind: Strong winds can remove moisture from the surface, speeding up
evaporation.
Humidity: Lower humidity allows for more evaporation, as the air can hold more
water vapor.
Surface Area: The larger the exposed surface area of water or soil, the more
evaporation can occur.
2.Transpiration: The process by which plants absorb water through their roots and release
it as water vapor through small openings in their leaves called stomata.
Key factors:
Plant type: Different plants transpire at different rates, with crops and trees
generally transpiring more water than desert plants.
Leaf area: More leaves or larger leaf surfaces mean higher rates of transpiration.
Soil moisture: Plants can only transpire when they have sufficient water in the
soil.

5.Groundwaterflow
Groundwater flow refers to the movement of water beneath the Earth's surface
within porous soil and rock formations. It is a critical component of the hydrologic cycle
and plays a vital role in replenishing water supplies, supporting ecosystems, and
influencing surface water bodies like rivers, lakes, and wetlands. Groundwater moves
through underground reservoirs called aquifers, and its flow is driven by gravity, pressure
differences, and the permeability of the soil or rock layers.
 Environmental concept, principles and issues
The environment encompasses all living and non-living things that exist on Earth,
shaping the interactions between organisms and their surroundings.
Environmental Concepts and Principles:
1. Sustainability - This concept refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present
without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
2. Conservation of Resources - Conservation involves the responsible use and protection
of natural resources to prevent degradation and ensure long-term availability.
3. Biodiversity and Ecosystem Health - **: Biodiversity, or the variety of life on Earth, is
critical for maintaining healthy ecosystems.
4. Pollution Prevention - Pollution impacts air, water, and soil quality, leading to harmful
effects on human health and ecosystems
5. Carrying Capacity - This refers to the maximum population size that an environment
can support without being degraded.
Environmental Issues:
1. Climate Change - Rising global temperatures due to greenhouse gas emissions are
causing drastic shifts in weather patterns, sea level rise, and impacts on ecosystems.
2. Deforestation - The large-scale removal of forests for agriculture, urban development,
and other uses is reducing biodiversity, increasing carbon emissions, and destabilizing
global ecosystems.
3. Loss of Biodiversity - **: Human activities such as habitat destruction, pollution, and
over-exploitation of species are leading to rapid species extinctions, which disrupt
ecosystems and reduce their resilience.
4. Pollution -Air, water, and soil pollution from industrial activities, waste disposal, and
agriculture are harming human health, degrading ecosystems, and contributing to global
problems like ocean dead zones and toxic landscapes.
5. Water Scarcity - Overuse, pollution, and changing climate patterns are leading to a
global water crisis
6. Waste Management - The rapid generation of solid waste, particularly plastic waste,
poses a significant challenge for disposal and pollution, especially in oceans, where it
harms marine life.

Ecology and Ecosystems

• Ecology: This is the branch of biology that studies interactions between organisms and
their environment. It encompasses the relationships between living organisms (plants,
animals, microorganisms) and their physical surroundings (air, water, soil).
• Ecosystems: An ecosystem is a complex network of interactions among living organisms
and their environment. It includes both biotic components (such as plants, animals, and
microbes) and abiotic components (such as sunlight, temperature, and minerals).

THREE TYPES OF ECOSYSTEM

1. Terrestrial Ecosystems
Definition: Terrestrial ecosystems are land-based ecosystems characterized by their
climate, vegetation, and landforms. They cover the majority of Earth's land surface and
include a wide variety of environments.
2. Aquatic Ecosystems
Definition: Aquatic ecosystems are water-based ecosystems and are classified into
freshwater and marine systems. They cover about 75% of the Earth's surface and are vital
for global climate regulation and biodiversity.
3. Coastal Ecosystems
Definition: Coastal ecosystems are areas where land meets the ocean. They are
influenced by both marine and terrestrial factors and are highly productive and diverse.

PRINCIPLES IN ECOLOGY AND ECOSYSTEMS

Several core principles guide our understanding of ecology and ecosystems:
• Energy Flow: Energy flows through ecosystems from producers (plants) to consumers
(herbivores and carnivores) and decomposers. This flow follows a food chain or food
web, with energy diminishing at each trophic level.
• Nutrient Cycling: Ecosystems recycle nutrients like carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus
through processes such as decomposition and respiration. This cycling maintains the
ecosystem’s productivity and stability.
• Ecological Succession: The gradual process by which ecosystems change and develop
over time. For instance, a disturbed area may initially become colonized by pioneer
species and gradually evolve into a mature, stable community.
• Carrying Capacity: The maximum population size of a species that an ecosystem can
sustain indefinitely without degrading the environment.
• Homeostasis: Ecosystems tend to reach a state of equilibrium where biotic and abiotic
factors interact to maintain balance. However, they can be dynamic and subject to change
due to disturbances.
ISSUES IN ECOLOGY AND ECOSYSTEMS
Several critical issues affect ecological systems and their health:
• Habitat Destruction: Activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture can
lead to the loss of natural habitats, which impacts species diversity and ecosystem
functionality.
• Climate Change: Changes in global climate patterns affect ecosystems by altering
temperature, precipitation, and seasonal cycles, which can disrupt species distributions
and ecosystem processes.
• Invasive Species: Non-native species introduced to new environments can outcompete
native species for resources, leading to ecological imbalances and loss of biodiversity.
• Pollution: Contaminants such as chemicals, heavy metals, and plastics can harm
ecosystems by affecting water quality, soil health, and the health of living organisms.
• Overexploitation: Excessive harvesting of natural resources, such as overfishing,
hunting, or logging, can deplete resources faster than they can replenish, leading to
ecological imbalances.
• Fragmentation: The breaking up of large habitats into smaller, isolated patches due to
human activities can lead to reduced species diversity and hinder ecological processes.
• Loss of Ecosystem Services: Ecosystems provide essential services like pollination,
water purification, and climate regulation. Degradation of ecosystems can diminish these
services, impacting human well-being and environmental health.
Understanding these concepts, principles, and issues is crucial for developing strategies
to protect and restore ecosystems, ensuring their health and sustainability for future
generations.

ACID RAIN
1. Environmental Concept of Acid Rain
Acid Rain: Acid rain refers to any form of precipitation (rain, snow, sleet, fog) that has a
higher acidity than normal due to the presence of sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄) and nitric acid
(HNO₃). This increased acidity results from the atmospheric deposition of sulfur dioxide
(SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), which are primarily released from industrial processes,
vehicle emissions, and burning fossil fuels.
 1. Wet Deposition
Definition: Wet deposition refers to the precipitation of acidic compounds from the
atmosphere in the form of rain, snow, sleet, or fog.
Types:
• Acidic Rain: Rainfall that has a pH below 5.6. It is the most common form of wet
deposition and results from the dissolution of sulfuric and nitric acids in rainwater.
• Acidic Snow: Snow that contains acidic compounds. When it melts, it can contribute to
acidification of soil and water bodies.
• Acidic Sleet and Hail: Sleet and hail can also carry acidic pollutants, which affect
ecosystems when they melt.
2. Dry Deposition
Definition: Dry deposition occurs when acidic particles and gases settle out of the
atmosphere without precipitation. These particles and gases can adhere to surfaces such
as soil, water bodies, and vegetation.
Types:
• Acidic Particles: Fine particles containing sulfuric and nitric acids that settle on surfaces.
These can include sulfate (SO₄²⁻) and nitrate (NO₃⁻) particles.
• Acidic Gases: Gases such as sulfur dioxide (SO₂) and nitrogen oxides (NOₓ) that deposit
onto surfaces and can later be transformed into acids.
**3. Specific Forms of Acid Deposition
Definition: These refer to the various ways that acid deposition manifests in the
environment, both wet and dry.
Types:
• Acid Fog: A type of fog that has a lower pH due to the presence of sulfuric and nitric
acids. It can contribute to acid deposition when it condenses on surfaces and is later
washed off by rain.
• Acid Dew: Dew that has a higher acidity due to the accumulation of acidic particles and
gases from the atmosphere. This can also lead to acid deposition when it evaporates or
washes away.
• Acid Mist: Small droplets of acid in the air that can settle on surfaces and contribute to
environmental damage.
 Effect of Acid Rain and Deposition
Acid rain has several far-reaching issues, affecting various aspects of the environment
and human life:
• Environmental Damage:
o Water Bodies: Acid rain lowers the pH of lakes and rivers, leading to
"acidification." This can harm aquatic life, including fish, insects, and plant
species, disrupting ecosystems.
o Soil: Acid rain can leach essential nutrients from the soil, reducing its fertility and
affecting plant growth. It can also release toxic metals (like aluminum) from the
soil, which can be harmful to plants and animals.
o Forests: Acid rain can weaken trees by leaching nutrients from the soil and
damaging leaves and bark. This makes them more susceptible to diseases and
pests.
• Infrastructure Damage:
o Buildings and Monuments: Acid rain can corrode and damage buildings,
especially those made of limestone and marble, which react with the acids. This
leads to increased maintenance costs and loss of cultural heritage.
• Human Health:
o Air Quality: The pollutants that cause acid rain (sulfur dioxide and nitrogen
oxides) can contribute to respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis,
when they are present in the air.
• Economic Impact:
o Agriculture: Reduced soil fertility and damage to crops can lead to decreased
agricultural productivity and economic losses for farmers.
The Greenhouse effect and Global Warming are closely linked phenomena that play a crucial
role in the Earth’s climate system. While the greenhouse effect is a natural and necessary process
that keeps the earth warm enough to support life. Global warming refers to the recent and
ongoing rise in global average temperatures, primarily due to human activities.
WHAT IS GREENHOUSE EFFECT?
Greenhouse effect occurs when certain gases in Earth’s atmosphere trap heat. Sunlight
enters the Earth’s atmosphere, and while some of it is reflected to space, much of it is absorbed
by the Earth’s surface, warming it. The surface then radiates heat back toward space in the form
of infrared radiation. Greenhouse gases absorb and re-radiate this heat, trapping it in the
atmosphere and keeping the planet warmer than it would be without them.
Greenhouse Gases
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2)- produced by burning fossil fuels, deforestation, and various
industrial activities.
• Methane (CH4)- released from agriculture (especially rice paddies), livestock, and the
decay of organic material in landfills.
• Nitrous Oxide (N2O)- emitted from the agricultural and industrial activities.
• Water Vapor- though natural, its concentration increases with rising temperatures, further
enhancing the greenhouse effect.
GLOBAL WARMING
Global warming refers to the long-term increase in Earth’s average surface temperature
due to the elevated levels of greenhouse gases. While the greenhouse effect is essential for life,
human activities have amplified this effect by increasing the concentration of GHG, particularly
CO2, in the atmosphere.
Causes of Global Warming
• Burning of Fossil Fuels: The largest contributor, releasing CO₂ from coal, oil, and natural
gas used in electricity generation, transportation, and industry.
• Deforestation: Trees absorb CO₂ and cutting them down not only reduces this absorption
but also releases stored carbon.
• Industrial Processes: Certain manufacturing processes emit various GHGs, including CO₂
and methane.
• Agriculture: Livestock farming produces large amounts of methane, and the use of
nitrogen-based fertilizers increases N₂O emissions.
Is Global Warming true? Yes, in fact there are some evidence that proves the global
Warming
EVIDENCE OF GLOBAL WARMING
• Rising Temperatures: Global surface temperatures have increased by approximately
1.1°C since the late 19th century.
• Melting Ice: The polar ice caps and glaciers are melting at an accelerated rate,
contributing to rising sea levels.
• Extreme Weather: An increase in the frequency and intensity of heatwaves, storms, and
other extreme weather events.
Consequences of Global Warming
• Rising Sea Levels: As glaciers and ice caps melt, sea levels rise, leading to the potential
submersion of low-lying coastal areas.
• Ocean Acidification: Increased CO₂ in the atmosphere is absorbed by the oceans, leading
to a decrease in pH levels and harming marine life, especially coral reefs.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Changes in climate affect habitats, leading to shifts in species
distribution, migration patterns, and an increased risk of extinction for some species.
• Impact on Agriculture: Altered weather patterns affect crop yields and food security, with
droughts and floods becoming more common.
• Health Risks: The spread of diseases like malaria and dengue may increase as their
vectors (such as mosquitoes) find more favorable conditions in warmer climates.

Mitigation and Adaptation

Addressing global warming involves both mitigation (reducing GHG emissions) and adaptation
(adjusting to the changing climate).

Mitigation Strategies:
Transition to Renewable Energy: Solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy
produce electricity without emitting CO₂.
Energy Efficiency: Improving energy use in buildings, vehicles, and appliances can
significantly reduce emissions.
Reforestation and Afforestation: Planting trees helps absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS): Technologies that capture CO₂ from industrial
processes and store it underground.
Adaptation Strategies:
Building Resilient Infrastructure: Designing cities and infrastructure to withstand extreme
weather events.
Water Management: Improving water conservation and distribution to address droughts.
Agricultural Adaptation: Developing crops that can thrive in new climate conditions and
improving farming practices.

The greenhouse effect is essential for life on Earth, but human activities have intensified
it, leading to global warming and its associated impacts. The consequences of global warming
are far-reaching, affecting ecosystems, economies, and human well-being. Both mitigation and
adaptation efforts are necessary to minimize the worst effects of climate change and ensure a
sustainable future.
By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preparing for inevitable climate changes,
humanity can help slow the progression of global warming and mitigate its most harmful effects.
SOURCES OF WATER
Water is a valuable natural resource that is found in different forms in the environment. it
is important to understand how water moves through the environment so that we can understand
how to manage it successfully.
WATER
- Is a vital natural resource which forms the basis of all life.
- It is one of the marvelous gifts to us
- About 70 percent of the human body is water
- The bodies of all plants and animals contain water
- it has been estimated that the total water contained on earth is about 1385.5x10^6.
- 97% of the water on the earth is salt water. However, only 3% is fresh water; slightly over
2/3 of this is frozen in glaciers and polar ice caps.
- The remaining unfrozen freshwater is found mainly as groundwater, with only a small
fraction present about ground or in the air.
- On the surface of earth 71% is covered by seas and oceans and remaining 29% is
occupied by land.
- Freshwater is a renewable resource.
-
1. Surface Water
- Is a water on the surface of the planet such as in a river, wetlands, lakes pr ocean. It can
be contrasted with groundwater and atmospheric water.
- Non- saline surface water is replenished by precipitation and by recruitment from
groundwater. It is lost through evaporation, seepage into the ground where it becomes
ground-water,used by plants for transpiration, extracted by mankind for agriculture,
living, industry etc. or discharged to the sea where it becomes saline.
o Lake
o Ponds
o Streams
o Rivers
o Storage Reservoirs
2. Ground Water
- Is the water present beneath Earth’s surface in soil pore spaces and in the fractures of
rock formations.
o Open Wells
o Tube Wells
o Artesian Well
 o Springs
o Infiltration
3. Rainwater
Rainwater is water that falls to the Earth's surface as precipitation in the form of rain. It is the
purest and most direct source of freshwater, forming a critical part of the Earth's natural water
cycle.
Uses of Water

1. Consumptive Use- water that is withdrawn from a source and not returned to the original
water body or system. This means that the water is used in such a way that it is lost
through evaporation, incorporation into crops or products, or consumed by people or
animals.

- Irrigation Use- where the water is absorbed by plants

2. Partially Consumptive Use- water usage where a portion of the water is consumed not
returned to the source while the remainder is returned to the original water body or
system.
- Domestic Use- water consumed in households for everyday activities. It includes a
variety of essential functions that support daily living like drinking, bathing and cooking.
- Industrial Use- water involves the utilization of water in various industrial processes and
manufacturing activities.
- Institutional Use- refers to the consumption of water by institutions such as schools,
hospitals, government buildings and other organizations that provides public or private
services.
- Public Use- refers to water consumption for community-wide purposes and services that
benefit the general population.
- Fire Demand- refers to the amount of water required to effectively fight and control fires.

3. Non- Consumptive Use- refers to uses of water where water is withdrawn from a source
but returned to the source or to a different one, typically without significant alteration in
quality. The water is not permanently removed or consumed; it remains available for
other purposes.
- Navigational Use- involves utilizing waterways for the movement of boats, ships, and
other vessels.
- Recreational Use- involves activities and pursuits that people engage in for leisure and
enjoyment.
- Hydro Electric Power Generation- water is diverted to generate electricity through
turbines and then returned to the river or reservoir.
 CLASSIFICATION OF LAND SYSTEM
The Philippines, with its diverse landscape and rich natural resources, has a complex land
system that is influenced by various factors, including geological history, climate, and human
activities. The classification of land in the Philippines is guided by the 1987 Constitution, which
states that all lands of the public domain belong to the state. These lands are then categorized
based on their potential use and management.
1. Public Domain Lands:
• Agricultural Land: This category includes lands suitable for farming and other
agricultural activities. It is the only type of public domain land that can be alienated (sold or
transferred) for private ownership. Agricultural lands can be further classified based on their
suitability for different crops or farming practices.
• Forest or Timber Lands: These lands are designated for forestry purposes, including
timber production, watershed protection, and biodiversity conservation. They are not alienable
and remain under state ownership. Forest lands are crucial for maintaining ecological balance
and mitigating climate change.
• Mineral Lands: These lands contain valuable mineral resources and are reserved for
mining activities. They are also not alienable and are subject to strict regulations to ensure
responsible mining practices. Mining activities often raise environmental concerns, requiring
careful management and mitigation strategies.
• National Parks: These areas are designated for conservation and recreation, preserving
natural landscapes and biodiversity. They are not alienable and are managed under the National
Integrated Protected Areas System (NIPAS) Act. National parks are vital for protecting unique
ecosystems and promoting ecotourism.
2. Alienable and Disposable Lands:
• Alienable and Disposable (A&D) Lands: These are lands within the public domain
that have been classified as suitable for private ownership. They are typically agricultural lands
that have been deemed not necessary for forestry, mineral extraction, or national park purposes.
The government has the authority to reclassify lands from public domain to A&D, often through
presidential proclamations or executive orders.
3. Private Lands:
• Private Lands: These lands are owned by individuals, corporations, or other entities.
They can be used for various purposes, including residential, commercial, industrial, and
agricultural. Private land ownership is subject to various regulations and laws, including property
taxes and zoning ordinances.
4. Land Use Classification:
• Land Use Classification: This system focuses on how land is actually being used,
regardless of its legal ownership. It can be categorized into various types, such as:
o Agricultural: Used for farming, livestock raising, and other agricultural activities.
o Forest: Covered by forests, including natural forests, plantations, and reforestation areas.
o Urban: Includes built-up areas, such as cities, towns, and settlements.
o Industrial: Used for industrial activities, such as manufacturing, mining, and energy
production.
o Residential: Used for housing and residential purposes.
o Commercial: Used for commercial activities, such as retail, services, and tourism.
o Recreational: Used for recreation, such as parks, beaches, and resorts.
o Protected Areas: Designated for conservation and protection of natural resources and
biodiversity.
LAND USE PLANNING
Land use planning is a systematic process of regulating and managing the use of land by
a central authority, typically a government agency, to achieve desired social, economic, and
environmental outcomes. It involves evaluating an area's current land use patterns, considering
future needs and goals, and developing strategies to guide future land development and
management
• 1987 Constitution: The Philippine Constitution mandates the state's ownership of all lands of
the public domain. It also emphasizes the importance of promoting social justice, ecological
balance, and sustainable development in land use planning.
• Local Government Code of 1991: This law empowers local governments to formulate and
implement their own Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs). These plans must be aligned
with national policies and address local needs and priorities.
• National Land Use Committee (NLUC): Established in 1983, the NLUC is responsible for
coordinating and overseeing land use planning activities at the national level. It provides
technical guidance and support to local governments in developing their CLUPs.
• Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB): This agency is responsible for
regulating land use and subdivision development, ensuring compliance with national standards
and promoting sustainable land management practices.
Components of Land Use Planning:
• Land Classification: Categorizing land based on its suitability for different uses, such
as agricultural, forestry, urban, industrial, and protected areas.
• Zoning: Dividing land into zones with specific regulations for development and land
use, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural zones.
• Infrastructure Planning: Developing infrastructure, such as transportation networks, water
supply, and sanitation systems, to support land use development.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluating the potential environmental impacts of
proposed land use projects and implementing mitigation measures to minimize negative effects.
• Public Participation: Engaging local communities in land use planning processes to ensure
that their needs and concerns are considered.
Land Use Planning helps to:
• Reduce pollution: By promoting efficient land use patterns and encouraging public
transportation, land use planning can help reduce air and water pollution from vehicles and
industries.
• Protect natural resources: By preserving open spaces, forests, and wetlands, land use
planning helps to protect natural resources and ensure cleaner air and water.
• Prevent flooding: By preserving floodplains and limiting development in high-risk flood
zones, land use planning can help prevent flooding and protect communities from natural
disasters.
• Promote safe transportation: Land use planning supports the development of efficient
transportation networks that provide safe and accessible routes for pedestrians, cyclists, and
motorists.
• Manage growth: Land use planning allows communities to manage growth and development
in a sustainable manner, ensuring that resources are used efficiently and preventing urban sprawl.
LAND CONSERVATION PLANNING
Land conservation is the practice of protecting and managing land resources to ensure
their long term health, productivity, and biodiversity. It involves a range of strategies aimed at
preserving natural habitats, protecting ecosystems, and promoting sustainable land use practices.
Key aspects of land conservation:
1. Protecting Natural Habitats:
• Preservation: Setting aside land areas for protection from development and human disturbance,
often establishing national parks, wildlife refuges, or conservation easements.
• Restoration: Rehabilitating degraded or damaged land to restore its natural functions and
biodiversity.
This can involve planting trees, removing invasive species, or restoring wetlands.
• Remediation: Cleaning up contaminated land to make it safe for human use or to restore its
ecological integrity.
2. Promoting Sustainable Land Use:
• Sustainable Agriculture: Implementing farming practices that minimize soil erosion, conserve
water,
and reduce the use of pesticides and fertilizers.
• Sustainable Forestry: Managing forests for timber production while ensuring the long-term
health
and biodiversity of the forest ecosystem. This can involve selective logging, reforestation, and
protecting old-growth forests.
• Urban Planning: Designing cities and towns to minimize sprawl, promote walkability, and
conserve
natural areas.
3. Addressing Threats to Land:
• Deforestation: Preventing the clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, or development.
• Habitat Loss: Protecting critical habitats for endangered species and maintaining biodiversity.
• Climate Change: Adapting land management practices to mitigate the impacts of climate
change,
such as drought, flooding, and sea level rise.
4. Key Benefits of Land Conservation:
• Protecting Biodiversity: Land conservation helps to preserve a wide range of plant and animal
species, ensuring the health and resilience of ecosystems.
• Maintaining Ecosystem Services: Land conservation protects natural processes that provide
essential services, such as clean air and water, pollination, and flood control.
• Supporting Economic Development: Land conservation can create jobs in sectors such as
ecotourism, sustainable agriculture, and forestry.
• Enhancing Quality of Life: Land conservation provides opportunities for recreation, outdoor
activities, and a connection to nature, improving the quality of life for communities.