Evaluate Technical Standards of Implemented Soil Bund in Central Rift Valley of Ethiopia: The Case of Adama, Lume and Dodota Districts

Land degradation in the form of soil erosion is a serious problem in Ethiopia. To combat this, the government undertaken SWC measures across the country since 1970’s. This study therefore, investigated technical standard of implemented soil bund practice in CRV of Ethiopia. A mixed methods approach was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection tools; HH survey, KI interviews, FGD, observation and desk literature review. HHs were randomly chosen from the sampling frame exist at PA level and a total of 150HHs were selected for this study. Further, soil bund structures were measured and evaluated. The data analysis was carried out by using descriptive statistics, one way ANOVA and chi-square tests. Results of the study showed that soil bund parameters implemented under the standard are bund spacing, width and height of embankment. While bund top width, bottom width, berm width and top width of embankment were better. Soil and stone bunds are mostly preferred, whereas check dam is the least preferred technology to implement in the study area. Major challenges farmers faced during SWC practices implementation, shortage of labor, lack of technical skills, fear for animal trampling, lack of awareness and lack of sufficient farm tools. Hence, the study has concluded that every year SWC practices implemented by community mobilization are not standardized and consequently it is difficult to manage the watershed in different areas. Therefore, the study suggests that well organized training should be given for experts at different levels to fill the technical gap on their skills and extension services like demonstration should be held for all stakeholders before implementing the SWC structures.