Rural Land Degradation - Strategies

Question 1

planting pits

Answer 1

• grid of planting pits w/ holes containing compost to trap surface runoff
• termites are attracted by compost = dig termite tunnels = increased infiltration = increased soil fertility and yields
• simple technique
• constructed on brownfield sites

Question 2

afforestation

Answer 2

• trees provide shade so less evaporation
• leaf litter = higher soil fertility
• roots bind soil together
• trees planted in rows as shelter belts to stop wind blowing soil away

Question 3

strategies to reduce desertification

magic stones

Answer 3

• small stone walls built along contours = reduced runoff = increases ability of soil to help veggies by 50%
• water collected by walls irrigates shrubs = binds soil = supports veggies :)
• effective during seasonal downpours i.e. when ITCZ moves