DETEREMINANTS OF FARMERS’ USE OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICES IN SORO WOREDA, HADIYA ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Agriculture is the main source of Ethiopian economy. However, many problems held back the sustainability of this sector. Soil erosion which causes degradation of land is one of the major challenges of rural households which hinder the developments of agricultural sector. With regard to this, different conservation measures were proposed by government and nongovernmental organizations. But, the problems persisted in different parts of the country including Soro districts due to lack of an appropriate use of soil and water conservation practices by farmers that emanated from different socio-economic, physical, institutional and psychological factors. Accordingly, this study tried to assess determinants of farmers’ use of soil and water conservation practices in the study area. Specifically it described types of soil and water conservation practices, assessed farmers’ perception toward soil degradation. To address objective of the study both qualitative and quantitative data were used. A two stage sampling technique was used to select 147 respondents from three kebele. Qualitative data were collected using semi-structured interview scheduled. A structured interview scheduled was used to collect the primary quantitative data. Descriptive statistic and multinomial logistic regression model were used to analyze data. The results of the study show extension contact and farming experience positively and significantly influence use of soil bund and (check-dam and hillside terracing). Educational level has a positive and significant influence on all type of soil and water conservation practices use. Training on use of soil and water conservation practices and slope has positively and significantly influence on the use of soil bund and (check dam and hillside terracing). Also, farm size positively and significantly influence farmer use of improved (check dam and hillside terracing). Thus, strategies which focus on enhancing willingness and ability of farmers to used soil and water conservation practices need to create learning opportunities through establishment of farmers training enter; the need to emphasize conservation in the extension service given to farmers; arranging farmers experience sharing conferences at cluster, giving training on soil and water conservation practice and extension agents should contact with farmers at least more than three time per season in a year.