Field‐based appraisal of the technical soundness of soil and water conservation practices to tackle land degradation

Abstract Soil erosion remains a critical environmental challenge in developing countries, including Ethiopia, where large‐scale Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) campaigns were initiated in the 1970/1980s. Although research‐based technical standards were developed to guide the implementation of SWC measures, evidence on field‐level compliance with these standards remains limited. This study evaluated adherence to recommended technical standards across three districts, eight kebeles and 20 watersheds in the Central Highlands of Ethiopia. Dimensions of implemented physical SWC structures were systematically measured, and watershed characteristics were recorded. Recommended standards were compiled from established guidelines, and 92 key informant farmers were interviewed. Data were analysed using R and Excel at agroecological and administrative levels. Results showed that 54% of the measured SWC structures deviated from recommended technical specifications. Noncompliance rates were 56%, 61%, 56% and 56% in Cool Moist Mid‐Highland, Cool Sub‐Moist Mid‐Highland, Tepid Sub‐Moist Mid‐Highland and Warm Moist Lowland agroecological zones, respectively. At the district level, noncompliance reached 56% in Kewet, 53% in Mojana Wodera and 43% in Basona Worena. Major factors contributing to noncompliance included limited awareness of technical standards, lack of calibrated surveying instruments, labour and time constraints, insufficient technical supervision of governmental institutions and low farmer motivation to follow recommended specifications. These findings reveal substantial gaps between recommended standards and field implementation, potentially reducing the effectiveness and longevity of SWC interventions. Practical implication . Strengthening technical supervision, improving farmer capacity through training, providing appropriate surveying tools and enforcing quality control during implementation can enhance compliance with technical standards, increase the effectiveness of SWC investments and promote sustainable land management.