Assessment and Documentation of Indigenous and Introduced Soil and Water Conservation Practices in Selected Districts of SNNPRS, Ethiopia

Abstract

In Ethiopia, soil erosion is the major problem which caused food security problem among rural households. Soil and water conservation is the only way to protect, control and manage soil erosion caused by water, wind and farming practices. In many parts of Ethiopia particularly southern Region many introduced and indigenous soil and water conservation measures were practiced using different approach. But, different indigenous and introduced SWC practices implemented were not assessed, identified and documented well yet. This study identified different indigenous and introduced SWC practices including their implementing system, function, category, and implementing season of each practice. The cropping system and its function, and the limitations of implementing SWC practices were also assessed. The study was undertaken at Layigna Arisho, M/gortanicho kebeles of Wera Zuria district, Tanakaka Umbullo and Kajima Umbullo of Hawassa Zuria district, Tutitti and worabi kebeles of Yirga Chafe district. The results show that at all study kebele’s there was a practice of both indigenous and introduced SWC practices. Indigenous SWC practices are basic for introduced practices. There were different indigenous practices which were practiced at specific district but not at other district.

Keywords: Soil erosion, indigenous soil and water conservation measures, introduced soil and water conservation measures.

DOI: 10.7176/JEES/10-1-04

Publication date: January 31^st 2020