EVALUATING COMMUNITY-BASED PHYSICAL SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION PRACTICES WITH EMPHASIS ON TECHNICAL FITNESS AND THEIR EFFECTS ON SELECTED SOIL PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES IN SILTI DISTRICT, SILTE ZONE, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA

ABSTRACT Soil erosion is a major cause of land degradation in Ethiopia, leading to declining soil fertility and agricultural productivity. To address this problem, the government has promoted the large-scale implementation of physical soil and water conservation structures. This study evaluated the effectiveness of these conservation measures in Silti District by examining their technical suitability and their influence on selected soil physicochemical properties across different slope positions. Field surveys and laboratory analyses were conducted. A topographic transect walk was used to assess conservation structures across upper, middle, and lower slope categories. Structural parameters such as bund height, top width, and spacing were measured, and soil samples were collected for analysis of bulk density, soil organic carbon, soil reaction, and selected soil nutrients. The results showed clear variation in soil conditions along the slope gradient. Soils on gentle slopes where conservation measures were relatively well maintained had lower bulk density (1.19 g/cm³), higher soil organic carbon (2.88%), and relatively better nutrient availability. In contrast, soils on steep slopes exhibited higher bulk density (up to 1.65 g/cm³), lower organic carbon content, reduced nutrient levels, and more acidic conditions, indicating soil degradation. Comparison of soil bund dimensions with national Ministry of Agriculture standards revealed that although some parameters met the recommended specifications, deviations were observed in top width and spacing, which may reduce structural effectiveness. These inconsistencies are likely associated with limited technical knowledge during construction. The study highlights the need to prioritize the technical quality and proper design of conservation structures through improved technical support, monitoring, and farmer training to ensure long-term sustainability of soil and water conservation efforts.