Dataset for: Soil Bulk Density Assessment in Picotani, Peru during the Dry Season (2024)

The procedure for determining soil bulk density was conducted in 2024 during the dry season within the designated sampling polygon in the community of Picotani (Putina, Puno). A soil pit with a depth of 30 cm was excavated, and a pickaxe and shovel were used to open a V-shaped section with smooth vertical walls. From the surface to the bottom of the pit, all loose material that could interfere with the insertion and handling of the bulk density cylinders was carefully removed. The pit depth (30 cm) was then verified using a measuring tape. Three cylinders were inserted for bulk density estimation at the following depths: Cylinder A1 (0–10 cm), Cylinder A2 (10–20 cm), and Cylinder A3 (20–30 cm). Each cylinder was positioned perpendicular to the pit walls, with a wooden block placed at the rear end to allow insertion by hammering with a mallet. Once all three cylinders had been inserted, they were extracted using screwdrivers. The tools were carefully placed around the outer edges of each cylinder, and gentle loosening movements were applied to detach the surrounding soil. This process ensured the recovery of intact, undisturbed soil cores.