ASSESSING EFFECTS OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES ON LAND PRODUCTIVITY OF CHEHA WOREDA IN CASE OF GASORE KEBELE GURAGE ZONE IN CENTRAL ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This study assessed the effects of Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) measures on land productivity in Gasore Kebele, Cheha Woreda, Gurage Zone, Central Ethiopia. With agriculture as the backbone of Ethiopia's economy, land degradation caused by soil erosion, deforestation, and unsustainable farming practices poses significant threats to food security and livelihoods. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, combining household surveys (n=88), key informant interviews, and field observations to evaluate the impacts of SWC practices. Findings revealed that 95% of farmers implemented SWC measures, with 84% adopting both physical (terraces, stone bunds) and biological (agroforestry, mulching) techniques. These interventions significantly improved land productivity, with 72% of respondents reporting moderate enhancements in soil fertility and crop yields, while 20% observed high improvements. Additionally, 96% of farmers acknowledged SWC's effectiveness in reducing soil erosion and land degradation. However, challenges such as over cultivation (29%), deforestation (12%), and overgrazing (23%) persisted, with 40% of respondents indicating severe erosion risks. The study highlights the critical role of SWC in sustainable land management but underscores the need for targeted interventions, including farmer education, policy support, and community engagement