Assessing the role of indigenous soil conservation systems in farming: a case of Birere Sub-County, Isingiro District.

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Date
2007-10
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Publisher
Kampala International University, School of Engineering and Applied Science
Abstract
The study assessed the role of indigenous soil conservation systems used in farming in Birere sub-County. Located in the new created Isingiro District, Birere sub-County is endowed with fertile soils which make farming the main economic activity being carried out. The farmers use indigenous methods in soil conservation though on a lower rate. It’s against such a background that this research was carried out. The general objective of the research was to find out the indigenous soil conservation systems used and how they conserve soils. The methodology used included the use of simple random sampling for selection of the study area, stratified random and systematic list sampling for selection of respondents. The methods of data collection included observation, questionnaires and interviews. Data were analyzed with the use of both qualitative and quantitative methods. Systems used in Birere sub-County among which are mulching, crop rotation, fallowing, intercropping and the use of compost manure among others. These techniques were used in the conservation of soils by adding fertility and controlling erosion among others. The findings also showed that there was a loss of indigenous knowledge due to factors such as the introduction of scientific methods of farming. The research recommends that the government should include indigenous knowledge in the schools’ curricula, make database for the storage of this important knowledge and communities should get involved in decision making so that there is awareness of the this rich diversity of knowledge. In conclusion it should be noted that the best farming system is one that protects the land against erosion and guards against the breakdown of the soil structure and the loss of the soil nutrients. A good farming system needs to take advantage of the tones of human, plant and animal refuse that are being produced daily
Description
A thesis submitted to the school of post graduate studies in partial fulfillment for the requirement of the award of the degree of Master of Science in environment management and development of Kampala International University.
Keywords
Indigenous soil conservation systems, Farming
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