Landuse planning based on resource potential and limitations of each zones of the state is essential for improving agricultural production and productivity. To assess resource potential , delineation of homogeneous resource entity termed as “ Agro Ecological Zones “ based on biophysical parameters is necessary.

Geographical setting, physiographic position, topographic features diversity in soil characteristics and rainfall parameters in Kerala are unique, and this makes it difficult to apply the general standards of land management programmes. Heterogeneity in resource endowments is common in the state of Kerala. Therefore delineation of areas with homogeneous resource endowments is a prerequisite for evolving suitable land use models.Based on the study conducted in Kollam, Alappuzha and Pathanamthitta districts for the above four parameters, nine agro ecological zones were identified.:
 

1. Coastal Sandy Zone- Coastal Sandy Zone comes under the physiographic division of coastal lands having an altitude of 0-10 mts above MSL. The topographic feature consists of flat or almost flat lands with less than 3% slope. The soils of this area is sandy.
    

2. Kayal Land Zone- This zone represents the deltaic basin region which lies at a physiographic position below mean sea level(MSL). The deltaic basin popularly known as Kuttanad, the rice bowl of Kerala, is sandwitched between the coastal sandy zone in the west and Pathanamthitta and Kottayam District in the east. Kayal land zone is unique in its landscape features and soil characteristics. This is a low lying deltaic formation of four major rivers Viz, Meenachil, Pamba, Manimala and Achencoil.
    

3. Low Land Zone- Low land zone represent the physiographic position of <20 mts above MSL. The topography of the zone is gently sloping with 3-10% slope. The soils are very deep, moderately well drained deposits developed in colluvio-alluvial materials.
    

4. Riverine Alluvial Zone- This zone lies in the Physiographic division of 0-20 mts above MSL. The topographic feature consists of nearly level to very gently sloping lands with <3% slope. The soils of the area are developed from Riverine alluvium. The zone represents low-lying wetlands along the banks of Kallada , Ithikkara, Achancovil and Pampa river of the districts.
    

5. Midland Laterite Zone- Midland laterite zone represents the undulating lands in the Physiographic position of 20-100 meters above MSL. The slope range is <15%. The zone is characterized by laterite soils.
    

6. Mid Upland Zone- Mid upland zone occupies in the Physiographic position of 100-300 mts above MSL. This zone is characterized by rolling topography with 15-33% slope. It possess normal to excessive relief. The peculiar feature of the soil is the presence of gneissic gravels and boulders of different weathering stages on the surface as well as in the profile.
    

7. Upland Zone- Upland zone occupies in the physiographic position of 300-600 mts above MSL. The topography of the zone is hilly with 33-50% slope.
    

8. Highland Zone- The zone comes under the physiographic position of 600-1200 mts above msl. The topography of the zone constitutes mountainous lands with more than 50% slope. This zone consists of forest area of the District.
    

9. Highrange Zone - High range zone comes under the Physiography of >1200 mts. It constitutes deeply mountainous lands with >50% slope.it represents the western Ghat forest lands of state .