Applying Field Research in Tropical Peatlands and Managing Ground Data: A Challenging Approach

Abstract

Hydrology research of peatlands requires accurate data and field research, which is still challenging, especially in Indonesia’s tropical peatlands. Peatlands in Indonesia have been explored and studied, including the peat soil and the community next to the place, requiring wise management. This study covers the challenge of conducting field research in two types of different land characteristics and societies. Hence, it explores how to present the field data. The result shows an appropriate approach to the community by understanding their background is essential. Four years of research in different peatland areas has proven this in either Sumatra Island or Kalimantan Island. The field research data can be presented in short or long intervals. The short data can show crucial details about rainfall-water table elevation (WTE) on one side. On the other hand, the long interval data can present a whole trend rainfall-WTE relationship and the possibility of fire occurrence and indicate the peatland condition, whether it is improving or deteriorating. Different results from both lands show WTE risk, which is indicated by the WTE numbers more than 40 cm below the surface reach exceeding 70%; it can be caused by different land use and intensity of activities.