Farmers' knowledge and Practicesto Combat Ecosystem Degradation in the South of the Benoue River in Northern Cameroon

Abstract

Objective: The present study aims to contribute to the restoration of degraded ecosystems for a sustainable management of resources. Methods: It is based on socio-economic surveys with structured and semi-structured questionnaires including closed, open and directed questions, administered to local populations to provide us with information. Results: It appears that agriculture (71.92%) is the main cause of degradation, followed by erosion (71.82%), deforestation (64.29%) and overgrazing (62.15%). As indices of degradation, the presence of gullies (23.72%), low yield (22.28%), the presence of Striga hermonthica (18.56%) and sandy soils (18.11%) are to be noted and the indices of fertility are observable through the good yield (40.23%), the presence of earthen glasses (7.79%) and the presence of flora such as pennisetum pedicellatum (3.34%). To remedy the degradation and increase their production, the population makes more use of chemical fertilizers and crop rotation and species such as Faidherbia albida (64.33%), Daniellia oliveri (17.89%), Pterocarpus lucens (7.99%), Acacia nilotica (4.42%) are retained as having restorative potential. Also, these farmers mention the importance of bank protection species (Khaya senegalensis, Ficus sycomorus, Mitragyna inermis and Daniellia oliveri) and living hedges (Acacia nilotica, Commifora kerstindjii, Jatropha curcas, Eucalyptus camaldulensis). Conclusion: The population is aware of the degradation that is taking place and is trying to develop remedial practices despite the pressure of nature and vital needs. It would be important to take measures to mitig