Water Conservation Techniques Research Articles

Farmers' Awareness of Land Degradation and Adoption of Soil and Water Conservation Practices in Hidebu Abote, Ethiopia

In Ethiopia, land degradation is a serious problem that affects both overall economic growth and agricultural output. Even while nutrient depletion, soil erosion, and deteriorating soil quality are serious issues, many land conservation initiatives today neglect to consider the expertise of farmers and local requirements. This study's primary goal was to evaluate farmers' knowledge of land degradation and their practice of soil and water conservation techniques in Ethiopia's Hidebu Abote. Data were gathered through focus groups, key informant interviews, household surveys, secondary data analysis, and focus groups. According to the findings, over 75% of the participants were aware of the factors that contribute to land degradation, such as poverty, rocky terrain, bad farming techniques, overgrazing, overcultivation, and soil erosion. Farmers used techniques such as contour farming, fallowing, fanyajuu, cut-off drains, soil bunds, and manure application in addition to more modern methods of conserving water and soil. The adoption of soil and water conservation methods by farmers was impacted by several factors such as age, gender, size of family, educational background, NGOs' incentives, farm size, land tenure, and distance from homestead. The study indicates that encouraging farmers to manage and conserve their land should be the priority for any policy or program aiming at land resource management and soil conservation. Policymakers and development professionals can use the findings as guidance to create efficient interventions to alleviate land degradation in the research area and other comparable contexts.

Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Adaptation Strategies of Tomato Producers’ to Climate Change in North West, Nigeria

This work evaluated socio-economic factors influencing adaptability strategy of tomato producers to climate change in North West, Nigeria. Primary data utilized were based on well-designed questionnaire distributed to 100 tomato producers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics adaptability strategy use index, multinomial Logit model, and principal component model. The outcome shows that the average age of tomato producers approximates 44 years. They are literate with an average of 12 years of school education. About 51% of tomato producers had access to credit, and they are smallholder farmers with average of 0.81 hectares of farm land. The major climate change adaptation strategies used by tomato producers and their corresponding indexes include planting of heat and drought tolerant crop (0.9704), use of improved seeds (0.9675), mulching (0.8976), soil and water conservation technique (0.8312), and use of organic manure (0.7917). The significant predictors influencing the choice of low climate change adaptation strategy users include years of school education, age, experience in tomato farming, and income earned from tomato farming. The significant predictors influencing high climate change adaptation strategy users include years of school education, and income earned from tomato farming. The major challenges faced by tomato producers and their corresponding Eigen values include a lack of improved seeds (8.6935), lack of technology (5.93660, lack of processing and storage facilities (3.9274), and lack of capacity building for producers (3.5173). Improved seeds, irrigation facilities, and farm technologies should be made available to tomato producers to combat threats of climate variability and increase productivity.

A Comprehensive Overview on Sustainable Vegetable Gardening: Eco-friendly Approaches to Home Grown Production

Sustainable vegetable gardening is an eco-friendly practice that integrates organic farming principles, resource conservation, and biodiversity promotion to produce nutritious, chemical-free food while minimizing environmental impact. This approach emphasizes soil health through the use of organic amendments, crop rotation, composting, and mulching to improve fertility and water retention. Water conservation techniques, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, are employed to optimize water use, especially in arid regions. Pest and disease management relies on integrated pest management (IPM), biological controls, companion planting, and the use of organic pesticides to reduce chemical input while maintaining crop health. Sustainable homegrown produce has been shown to have superior nutritional content compared to commercially grown produce, and the avoidance of synthetic chemicals reduces the risk of pesticide residue exposure. Gardening fosters healthy eating habits by connecting individuals to their food sources, encouraging the consumption of fresh, unprocessed vegetables, and contributing to food security. The mental and physical health benefits of gardening, including reduced stress, increased physical activity, and improved mental well-being, further highlight its holistic value. However, challenges such as the initial setup costs, time investment, pest management, and knowledge gaps can hinder widespread adoption. Addressing these challenges requires greater access to resources, educational initiatives, and the development of climate-resilient practices tailored to specific regions. Future trends in sustainable gardening include the adoption of technological innovations, such as smart irrigation systems, automation, and vertical farming, which offer scalable solutions for urban and small-scale gardeners. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of resilient, local food systems, and sustainable gardening is poised to play a critical role in addressing future food security concerns.

Sustainable Water Conservation Techniques for an Office Building

The research paper titled "Sustainable Water Conservation Techniques for an Office Building" explores methods to reduce water consumption and promote sustainable practices in office buildings. The study focuses on the rising global water crisis due to population growth and increasing urbanization, advocating for the reuse of rainwater and wastewater as alternatives to conventional water sources. Key objectives include assessing current water distribution systems, comparing existing water management techniques, and proposing sustainable water-saving measures. By integrating solutions such as water-efficient fixtures, greywater recycling, and rainwater harvesting, the study aims to significantly reduce water demand and operational costs, contributing to long-term sustainability​.

Identifying climatic risks and relevant adaptation strategies for selected smallholder farming regions, Limpopo Province, South Africa

ABSTRACT Due to low adaptive capacities and high reliance on weather-sensitive natural ecosystems for their livelihoods and food production, smallholder farmers are highly vulnerable to risks associated with climate change and variability. Such risks are location-specific; thus, to cope with them, smallholder farmers require tailored adaptation strategies. To support these farmers, this study aimed to identify climatic risks threatening sustainable smallholder farming in the Limpopo Province regions of Gavaza, Ga-Makanye and Giyani. Weather station records spanning up to 1980–2021 were used to identify climatic risks, for the October–April dryland maize growing season. Risks were identified based on temporal trends and/or interannual variability patterns for reference evapotranspiration and a suite of agriculturally relevant rainfall and temperature indices. Based on the identified risks, tailor-made adaptation strategies were devised for application by farmers within the study region. The results revealed the specific risks of growing seasons becoming shorter and increasingly hotter with highly irregular rainfall patterns. To adapt and improve agricultural productivity despite these prevailing climatic risks, farmers within the study region will benefit if they plant drought tolerant, early maturing and higher yielding crop varieties, apply soil water conservation techniques and make use of seasonal and daily weather forecasts to guide their decision-making.

Modeling Ecosystem Regulation Services and Performing Cost–Benefit Analysis for Climate Change Mitigation through Nature-Based Solutions Using InVEST Models

Climate change and land degradation menace ecosystem sustainability. This study assessed the effectiveness of integrating nature-based solutions (NBSs); soil and water conservation techniques, agroforestry, and reforestation, to mitigate these impacts. Focusing on carbon storage and sediment retention at the watershed level (Sidi Barrak), the InVEST model quantified changes from 1990 to 2050 under the Business as Usual (BAU) and management scenarios. The results showed a significant decrease in sediment retention and carbon storage from 19.25 to 15.5 t ha−1year−1 and from 1.72 to 1.61 t ha−1year−1, respectively, between 1990 and 2021. By 2050, BAU scenario projections demonstrate a 28% decrease in sediment retention and a 16% drop in carbon storage under Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP) 4.5. The Management scenarios indicate substantial improvements, with carbon storage increasing by 77% and sediment retention by 87% when all strategies were combined. The economic valuation, performed through the application of the cost–benefit analysis, shows positive net benefit values (NPVs) for the different NBS management scenarios. The combined management scenario, which includes soil and water conservation techniques, agroforestry, and reforestation under the same scenario, presents the highest total NPV with 11.4 M€ (2%, 2050), an average of 130 €/ha (2%, 2050), and an opportunity cost of 1.7 M€ compared to BAU. Such results may orient decision-making by providing solid arguments toward ecosystem resilience and climate change mitigation.

The patterns of potential evapotranspiration and seasonal aridity under the change in climate in the upper Blue Nile basin, Ethiopia

Evapotranspiration is one of the determinant components of the hydrological process, highly influenced by climate change due to the increase in atmospheric temperature at global and regional scales. This study was designed to evaluate the extent to which climate change affects the Potential Evapotranspiration (PET) and the consequent Aridity Index (AI) in the high-emission scenario of Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) in the Gilgel Abay, Ribb, Gumara, and Megech watersheds using six Global Climate Models in the 2011–2040, 2041–2070, and 2071–2100 relative to the 1971–2000 (baseline period). The average PET is simulated using the Soil Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. Penman-Monteith and Hargreaves methods were used in the computation of PET using the water balance technique, and the Hargreaves method was found more efficient in calibration and validation processes. The Aridity Index (AI) of watersheds is calculated using the ratio of precipitation and potential evapotranspiration. The study revealed that the change in annual average PET is showing an increasing pattern in the three time periods, and the highest rate of changes in Megech, Gilgel Abay, Ribb, and Gumara, watersheds are 16.66%, 15.53%, 14.68%, and 13.46%, respectively in the 2071–2100 time period. Seasonally, the highest rate of change in PET is 20.37% (September), 19.29% (April), 17.46% (March), and 17.02% (March) in the Megech, Gilgel Abay, Ribb, and Gumara, respectively. Similarly, the seasonal highest change in Aridity Index (AI) is also likely to be observed in the 2071–2100 in which in the dry season, it accounts –0.303 (March), –0.299 (March), –0.285 (April), and –0.276 (April) in the Ribb, Gumara, Gilgel Abay, and Megech, respectively, whereas in the rainy season, the change is 0.263, 0.258, 0.238, and 0.211 in the Gilgel Abay, Gumara, Ribb, and Megech, respectively. In general, due to the rising atmospheric temperature, the amount of moisture during dry seasons in the headwater catchments of the upper Blue Nile basin is expected to deplete in the 21st century. Therefore, it is highly recommended to use different climate change adaptation mechanisms including adopting suitable physical and biological water conservation techniques to enhance the amount of water stored in the subsurface and joining the groundwater during the rainy season.

Sustainable integration of rubber plantations within agroforestry systems in China: current research and future directions

The integration of rubber plantations with agroforestry systems, or the under-forest economy, represents a pivotal shift towards sustainable agriculture in China. This paper reviews the latest research on agroforestry practices and innovations within China's rubber plantation under-forest economy, with a focus on the balance between economic productivity and environmental sustainability. We explore the adoption of diverse agroforestry models that incorporate rubber trees with other valuable plant species, aiming to enhance ecosystem services, biodiversity, and farmers' livelihoods. The review highlights significant advancements in sustainable management practices, including species selection, planting designs, and soil and water conservation techniques that contribute to the resilience of these systems against environmental stresses. Economic analyses underscore the potential for rubber agroforestry systems to improve income diversification and stability for rural communities while also navigating market challenges. Environmental assessments reveal the positive impacts of these practices on carbon sequestration, biodiversity preservation, and soil health, positioning rubber agroforestry as a beneficial strategy for mitigating climate change effects. However, the review also identifies challenges, including the need for supportive policy frameworks, access to knowledge and technology for smallholders, and further research on long-term sustainability outcomes. Future directions for research are proposed, emphasizing the integration of ecological, economic, and social dimensions to fully realize the potential of the rubber under-forest economy in China.

Towards Rethinking the Water Conservation Techniques in Order to Deal for Drought Area, A Case of Jhansi for Designing Rural Development Training Institute

Towards Rethinking the Water Conservation Techniques in Order to Deal for Drought Area, A Case of Jhansi for Designing Rural Development Training Institute

Household water insecurity experience in the Upper West Region of Ghana: Insights for effective water resource management

The global community is not on track to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) by 2030. Many low- and middle-income countries like Ghana still struggle with water insecurity. In semi-arid regions like Ghana’s Upper West, climate change has worsened water insecurity, leading to health and livelihood consequences. In UWR, limited studies have explored water insecurity in rural areas. This study fills a knowledge gap by investigating the determinants of water insecurity in Ghana’s Upper West Region (UWR) from a political ecology of health (PEH) perspective. It comprehensively explores the interplay of social, economic, political, environmental, and health-related factors contributing to water insecurity in the UWR. The results from binary logistic regression show that households in the wealthier category (OR = 0.475, p<0.05) and those that spent less than thirty minutes on a roundtrip to fetch water (OR = 0.474, p<0.01) were less likely to experience water insecurity. On the other hand, households that did not use rainwater harvesting methods (OR = 2.117, p<0.01), had to travel over a kilometer to access water (OR = 3.249, p<0.01), had inadequate water storage systems (OR = 2.290, p<0.001), did not treat their water (OR = 2.601, p<0.001), were exposed to water-induced infections (OR = 3.473, p<0.001), did not receive any water, hygiene, and sanitation education (OR = 2.575, p<0.01), and faced water scarcity during the dry season (OR = 2.340, p<0.001) were at a higher risk of experiencing water insecurity. To mitigate the risks of water insecurity and adverse health impacts, policymakers and practitioners must work together to educate households on effective water conservation, storage, and treatment techniques. It is recommended that households harvest rainwater as a coping strategy, construct appropriate storage systems, and treat their water. Communal self-help water investments should be encouraged and supported. Given the significant aquifers and semi-arid landscape of the UWR, investing in groundwater development should be a top priority.

Evaluating effects of selected water conservation techniques and manure on sorghum yields and rainwater use efficiency in dry region of Zimbabwe

Sorghum production in semi-arid areas of Zimbabwe is constrained by low and erratic rainfall, low fertility and soil moisture stress. Sorghum grain yields ranges from 0.2 to 0.4 t ha−1 in sandy-to-sandy loam soils respectively. The objective of the study was to assess cattle manure and rainwater harvesting techniques in improving sorghum grain yield in a semi-arid region of Zimbabwe. The experiment used a randomised complete block design with rainwater harvesting technique as a main treatment factor at three levels. Sub-plot factor was cattle manure at five levels (0, 2.5, 5, 10 and 15 t ha−1) and two sorghum varieties (Macia and SV1) as sub-sub plot factor. Sorghum grain yields were improved significantly (p < 0.05) for both varieties using tied contours. Increasing application rates of cattle manure, showed significant increase (p < 0.05) in sorghum grain yield over the control (0 t ha−1). Tied contour had higher grain yield (1.15 t ha−1) with the use of Macia variety. Stover yield was highly influenced by rainwater harvesting method of tied contour (p < 0.05) compared with infiltration pit and standard contour. Increase in application levels of cattle manure show significant (p < 0.05) increase in stover yields. Tied contour had the highest (3.11 kg ha−1 mm−1) rainwater use efficiency which show significant differences (p < 0.05) from infiltration pits and standard contour. Interaction of tied contour and different rates of cattle manure showed significant increments in rainwater use efficiency with increases in manure application rates. Tied contours, 15 t ha−1 cattle manure and Macia variety are potential strategy to achieve climate smart agriculture and improve food security in semi-arid areas. Sorghum production in marginalised areas can be productive with adoption of tested techniques.

Sustainable innovations in rural housing: Strategies for efficiency, community engagement, and environmental harmony

This study delves into the multifaceted aspects of enhancing sustainability in rural dwellings, focusing on energy efficiency, the use of sustainable materials and construction techniques, and the pivotal role of community engagement and social sustainability. Through detailed quantitative analyses and case studies, we examine the effectiveness of various insulation materials, the integration of renewable energy sources, and the impact of energy management systems in reducing energy consumption and promoting sustainability. Additionally, we explore the benefits of utilizing local and recycled materials, incorporating green roofing and natural ventilation strategies, and implementing water conservation techniques. A significant portion of our research is dedicated to understanding the socio-economic impacts of these sustainable practices, including job creation, economic benefits, and the importance of education and capacity building within rural communities. Our findings highlight the substantial advantages of participatory design processes, demonstrating how they contribute to increased community satisfaction and the overall success of sustainability projects. The study underscores the critical importance of tailored, locally adapted solutions for rural sustainability and provides a comprehensive framework for stakeholders aiming to implement sustainable practices in rural development projects.

Implementasi Konservasi Tanah dan Air berbasis Eco-Habitat di Sekitar Tahura Nipa-Nipa Desa Waworaha Kabupaten Konawe

Waworaha is one of the village areas in Soropia District, Konawe Regency, where most of the population lives around Tahura Nipa-Nipa and the coastal area. Land use arrangements and soil and water conservation techniques need to be carried out to minimize the impact of climate change, such as flooding, erosion and landslides and ensure the existence of Tahura Nipa-Nipa from anthropogenic damage due to excessive exploitation. The aim of this service is to provide education to the community in efforts to conserve land and water through integrating ecosystems as environmentally friendly and sustainable living spaces. The method used is an educational and participatory approach through socialization activities, distribution and planting of tree seedlings which are carried out jointly. The results of the service implementation that have been carried out are: 1) Identification of problems and coordination with the village government and community; 2) Socialization of the annual role in providing environmental services; 3) Socialization of the role of soil and water conservation in maintaining the sustainability of Taura's environmental services; 4) Providing economically valuable tree seedlings as a medium for soil and water conservation; 5) Joint tree planting action. All of these service activities were welcomed positively by the community of Waworaha Village and took an active role

Advancing Water Conservation Techniques in Agriculture for Sustainable Resource Management: A review

The evolution and impact of water conservation techniques in Indian agriculture, underlining their vital role in fostering sustainable resource management amidst increasing global water scarcity. It begins by exploring traditional water management practices, illuminating their historical relevance and the constraints they face in meeting contemporary agricultural demands. The focus then shifts to modern water conservation methods, including technological advancements in irrigation, such as drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, and subsurface irrigation, alongside agronomic practices like crop rotation, soil moisture management, and mulching, which collectively enhance water efficiency. It explores into the crucial influence of technology and innovation in Indian agriculture, spotlighting precision agriculture with a particular emphasis on sensors and IoT for water management, remote sensing, satellite imagery, and data-driven methodologies incorporating AI, machine learning, and decision support systems. Additionally, it investigates cutting-edge solutions like hydrogel technology for soil water retention and solar-powered irrigation systems. The review also addresses the significance of supportive policy frameworks, community-oriented water management strategies, and the role of education and awareness, highlighting government initiatives, international collaborations, NGO involvement, and farmer training programs. Regional case studies are presented to analyze the effects of these water conservation practices on sustainability and productivity, offering insights into lessons learned and the potential for replication. Lastly, the review identifies and discusses the challenges and barriers to implementation, encompassing economic and financial limitations, technological and infrastructural gaps, social and cultural obstacles, and environmental considerations. Ultimately, this review emphasizes the need for a holistic approach that synergistically integrates technology, policy, community engagement, and education, crucial for advancing water conservation in Indian agriculture and ensuring its sustainability and resilience amidst diverse environmental and socio-economic challenges.

Investigation of the discharge performance in infiltration wells based on several soil subgrade models

Heavy precipitation would result in hydrometeorological disasters such as landslides and floods. In general, disasters cause hazardous situations and property loss. Infiltration wells are water and soil conservation techniques that can reduce surface runoff and increase infiltration to mitigate the effects of hydrometeorological disasters. However, evaluations of geotechnical properties have not yet jointly or actively considered these environmental developments. This paper aims to analyse the wide range of soil types against several diameters and depths of the holes. The variation in soil varied from type 1 to 6, containing different properties and consistencies. The holes diameter used are 0.4m, 0.5m, 0.6m, 0.7m, and 0.8m, associated with several depths; 0.5m, 0.75m, 1m, 1.25, and 1.5m. The analysis was conducted with Geostudio SEEP-W in different model variations to obtain the well’s discharge value. The result shows that all the depth depicts similar behaviour of the discharge well. The sand model has the highest value of all categories, with the second place being the sand-clay layer model. In contrast, the clay simulation generates the lowest value of this research. This output offers a strong recommendation between infiltration well structure and soil parameters, which show sand is the most required property to increase the performance of hole infiltration.

Estimation of Water Yield and Soil Erosion in Samanalawewa Watershed in Sri Lanka using GIS-based InVEST Model

Ecosystem services (ES) are a group of tasks performed by the earth's ecosystems that are required to support life and offer benefits to humanity. Thus, this study explores two of the water-related ecosystem services, water yield, and soil retention that were distributed in the Samanalawewa Watershed (SW) and its eight sub-watersheds in Sri Lanka, over 20 years (2000-2020) with five- year time intervals. Soil and water conservation and water yield play an important role in ecosystem management. Hydrological balance is a crucial component of the hydrological ecosystem services. Assessing water yield and soil erosion are pivotal for watershed management. Thus, this study estimated and mapped the water yield and soil erosion, using the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST 3.9.2) Annual Water Yield (AWY) and Sediment Delivery Ratio (SDR) model respectively. According to the obtained results, in 2000, 2005, 2010, 2015 and 2020, the estimated mean annual water yield was 2.62x105, 2.6x105, 3.5x105, 3.58x105 and 2.75x105 m3 ha-1year-1, respectively. Furthermore, the estimated mean annual soil erosion rates for the above- mentioned years were 53.2, 52.9, 69.7, 87.7 and 70.2 t ha-1 year-1. The estimated soil loss values of the SW are 10 to 18 times greater than the soil erosion tolerance (5 t ha-1 year-1) in Sri Lanka. The results show that the years 2015 and 2005 have the highest and the lowest water yield and total soil loss values, respectively. The upper part of the watershed has relatively moderate water yield and soil loss values than the lower part. These findings would be beneficial in developing watershed management strategies and in the implementation of suitable soil and water conservation techniques within the watershed. &#x0D; Keywords: Ecosystem services, InVEST, Samanalawewa watershed, Soil erosion, Water yield

CLIMATE-SMART RICE PRODUCTION: A REVIEW

‌Rice is one of the world's most important crops and the primary source of nutrition for the world's more than half population. Currently, the world rice production is 495.78 million tons, while it will increase to 525 tons in 2050, which is not sufficient for the world's increasing population. At the same time, various climatic factors affect rice production, such as air temperature, atmospheric CO2, light, water, and soil nutrients. For instance, high temperature was the main climate factor that caused yield variation by affecting the rice maturity periods, spikelet fertility, and spikelet number. Thus, it is an urgent need to improve rice production and reduce the negative effects of climate change on rice production. In order to solve above-mentioned problem, one of the most important options is using climate-smart practices, which are planting improved rice varieties, soil and water conservation techniques, and adjusting planting and harvesting dates. The importance of adapting climate smart practices is an increase in rice yield by 15.87%. Climate-smart rice production and climate-smart practices in rice needs still to be investigated widely. The review objective is to describe climate-smart practices in rice cultivation, in order to mitigate the negative effects of climate change on rice production.

A Comprehensive Review on the Impact of Climate Change on Fruit Yield and Quality in Modern Horticultural Practices

This review provides an exhaustive analysis of the impact of climate change on fruit yield and quality, with a specific focus on India's horticultural sector. It synthesizes current research findings, identifies gaps, and suggests future directions to understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on key fruit crops. Climate change, characterized by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events, poses significant challenges to fruit production. These challenges under three main sections: the direct and indirect effects of climate change on fruit yield, the influence of climate change on fruit quality, and the adaptations in modern horticultural practices. The direct effects include alterations in flowering and fruiting cycles and changes in pollination dynamics. Indirect effects comprise changes in soil quality and nutrient availability, along with water availability and irrigation challenges. These factors collectively lead to variations in fruit yield across different regions and crops. The review also discusses the impact of climate change on the nutritional content of fruits, such as changes in sugar, acid, vitamin levels, and secondary metabolites that affect flavour and health benefits. Physical and aesthetic changes, including modifications in size, color, texture, and shelf life, are also examined, highlighting their implications for marketability and consumer preference. Adaptation strategies in response to these challenges are crucial. Delves into breeding and genetic modification efforts aimed at developing climate-resilient fruit varieties and discusses the role of biotechnology in these adaptations. It also covers changes in agronomic practices, such as adjustments in planting dates and crop rotation, alongside water management and conservation techniques. The adoption of technological innovations like precision agriculture, monitoring systems, and controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is evaluated for their potential to enhance resilience in fruit production.

Woody species alongside earth contour bunds enhance the soil water‐infiltration capacity in the Sahel, West Africa

AbstractLand degradation, including the loss of tree, forest and vegetation cover, and its related loss of water availability are the main constraints affecting the rainfed agricultural systems in West African Sahel and dry savanna. Therefore, farmers are implementing various soil and water conservation techniques such as zaï pits, half‐moons, contour stone and earth bunds to improve crop production through reduced erosion and enhanced water retention. This study explores the effect of woody and herbaceous vegetation established along earth contour bunds on soil infiltration capacity in southern Mali. The soil infiltration measurements were carried out from September to December 2019 using single ring infiltrometers up‐slope and down‐slope of the bunds built on contour lines in 2015 and 2016 with four types of vegetation: (1) natural annual herbaceous vegetation; (2) planted Andropogon gayanus (perennial grass); (3) planted Gliricidia sepium (woody species) and (4) planted Acacia colei (woody species). The field‐saturated hydraulic conductivity (Kfs) was estimated from the infiltration data and subjected to statistical analysis to compare the effect of the four types of vegetation on soil infiltration capacity. The results revealed significant differences in infiltration rate and Kfs between the four vegetation types. The highest infiltration rate and Kfs were observed for earth contour bunds reinforced with woody species G. sepium (299.5 ± 0.6; 45.3 ± 1.4 mm h−1), followed by A. colei (232.2 ± 2; 38.2 ± 1.6 mm h−1). These were followed by the grass A. gayanus (189.4 ± 2.5; 33.0 ± 1.7 mm h−1) and natural annual herbaceous vegetation (132 ± 2.3; 20.7 ± 1.9 mm h−1). In addition, soil water‐infiltration rate and Kfs were higher for down‐slope compared to up‐slope areas for the two woody species. In practice, it is appropriate for farmers to reinforce contour bunds with woody species and perennial herbs given the beneficial effect on soil water infiltration and retention capacity and the expected socio‐economic benefit they can get from them.

Towards Rethinking the Water Conservation Techniques in Order to Deal for Drought Area, A Case of Jhansi

Abstract: India has 16% of the world’s population and only 4%of the world’s water resources, which are depleting rapidly. The demand for water is expected to grow from 40 billion cubic meters currently to around 220 in 2025. Water is one of the most important inputs essential for crops. Both its shortage and excess affects the growth and development of the plants, yields and quality of produce. There are numerous methods to reduce such losses and to improve soil moisture. The most important step in the direction of finding solutions to issues of water and environmental conservation is to change people's attitudes and habits; this includes each one of us.