Investigate the Impact of Large Ungulates on Forest Land with Regard to Soil Hydrology in Central and Eastern Europe

The study of impact of large ungulates on forest land with regard to soil hydrology was conducted in two locations in central and eastern Europe. The study aimed to investigate the impact of large ungulates on forest soils, as produced by trampling or hoof action, with respect to soil hydrology. Samples for determination of water retention were taken from three kinds of plots representing different sites with different degrees of animal disturbnace (high disturbance, intermediate, and undisturbed conditions). From each plot, several soil samples were taken from two depths (0–5 cm and 5–10 cm). Water infiltration measurements were conducted for determining soil hydraulic conductivity. The data used for evaluating soil water retention and soil hydraulic conductivity were analyzed through the ANOVAwith Duncan’s multiple range test and Wilcoxon matched pair test at P<0.05 and P<0.1, respectively. The mean hydraulic conductivity (2, 77.10-2 cm day-1) in the high disturbed area was significantly lower than (3,88.10-2 cm day-1) in the undisturbed area. Water retention significantly lower in the disturbed sites than undisturbed, except in the plot Topoľčianky Bison Park, it is higher in the disturbed site.