DETERMINANTS OF SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICE AT BULE WOREDA, GEDEO ZONE, SOUTHERN ETHIOPIA.

Abstract Agriculture is the main source of Ethiopian economy. However, many problems held back the sustainability of this sector. Soil erosion which causes degradation of land is one of the major determinants of rural households which hinder the developments of agricultural sector. Soil and water conservation practices are very important in mountainous areas of developing countries to prevent land degradation. The aim of this study was designed with determinants of soil and water conservation practice at Bule Wereda, Gedeo Zone three kebeles, Suko,Osolimajo and Sika were selected to collect the data. Quantitative data collections approaches were employed. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analysis the collected data. The survey result revealed that all farmers were practiced agroforestry in the study area to soil and water conservation. The finding has shown Fanya-juu terrace were the most common implemented to soil and water conservation practices and afforestation were the most commonly known and practices conservation methods in the area. These practices play a significant role in soil prevention and environmental sustainability, driven by the community’s awareness and engagement in combating land degradation. The determinants of soil and water conservation practices in the study area are influenced by a complex interplay of socio-economic, environmental and institutional factors. These factors include overgrazing, fundamental social services, lack of awareness, steepness of the land and land size. However, the adoption of rates vary, with wealthier households and those with more likely to implement soil and conservation measures. Encourage the use of local and indigenous knowledge in conservation practices by promoting community –based conservation groups that can share best practices and resources and promote agroforestry practices that help in soil stabilization, water retention, and biodiversity conservation, as they are sustainable and provide additional income through tree products.