Evaluating soil erosion and determinants of farmers’ adoption of soil and water conservation measures in the Offa district, southern Ethiopia

Abstract

Soil erosion is a significant environmental problem worldwide, particularly in developing countries agricultural area where it can lead to reduced soil fertility, decreased crop productivity, and even land degradation. This study explores the prevalence of soil erosion in the Wolaita area and the factors that hinder or promote the implementation of soil and water management (SWC) practices by farmers. Despite significant investment by the local government, the adoption rate of these practices remains low. Data from cross-sectional surveys were gathered from primary and secondary sources and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study involved 378 sample households, including both adopters and non-adopters of soil and water conservation measures. A multinomial logistic regression model was utilized to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of physical conservation measures. The study found that most local farmers perceived soil erosion rates are high (43.54 %) and increasing. Some respondents had a medium perception (22.96 %) while others had a low perception (17.72 %). The results revealed that education, farm size, family size, livestock ownership, contact with extension workers, farming experiences, and land tenure security all positively and significantly influenced the adoption of conservation measures. The findings highlight the importance of sustainable conservation practices, comprehensive education and training for farmers, and the establishment of strong local institutions for credit accessibility and extension services. Additionally, fostering connections and knowledge-sharing among farm communities can enhance the adoption of soil and water conservation measures. The outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and farmers to develop effective strategies to combat soil erosion and promote sustainable agriculture practices in the region. Overall, this study suggests that the local government and stakeholders must prioritize these strategies to address the critical issue of soil erosion in the Wolaita area.