RLD strategies

Question 1

stone lines

Answer 1

are placed along the contour lines of gently sloping land to promote infiltration which allows fertile soil to accumulate in the Sahel

effective as it is a simple technique which involves the whole community

Question 2

afforestation

Answer 2

planting new trees to help bind the soil. Provides wind breaks which reduces wind erosion. trees can provide fruit and nuts for humans and animals.

trees take a long time to grow so it is a time consuming strategy

acacia trees produce gum which can be sold for profit. The great green wall has restored 1.2 million hectares of land in Niger

Question 3

moving fencing

Answer 3

allows farmers to control grazing to prevent overgrazing which will allow the soil to recover.

however, the cost of fencing and the management of grazing areas eg. Korr is expensive

Question 4

reducing herd sizes

Answer 4

reduces the effects of compaction

however, farmers are not willing as they don’t want to lose a valuable cash source

Question 5

education

Answer 5

involves teaching farmers about the causes and consequences of RLD in order to change attitudes (eg. the importance of proper irrigation)

doesn’t cost anything and can be passed on to other farmers easily by word of mouth