Assessment of the existing land conservation techniquesin Peri urban area of Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of the existing land conservation techniques in the peril-urban area of Kadoka metropolis with the aim of ascertaining if the existing conservation methods have helped to alleviate land degradation, and
provide sustainable land use. Random sampling method was used to collect data
from field observation, measurement and semi-structured interview which are ana
lyzed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that there exist local conservation techniques along with the modern techniques, some are physical and others are biological methods, even though techniques such as agI'o forestry, which is known to be the best method of farming is present but is yet to take root in the area. Some of these conservation methods are not standardized neither are they implemented in a scientific manner to. ensure e.Df!Ctiveness and efficiency without causing further damage to the lalld, as a result, there may be no end to land degradation in Kaduna if the current approaches to conservation are not improved on. it is suggested that improved water management, improved farming techniques, economic empml'ennent and education of the land users be employed in refilling existing techniques, through which poor management practices such as bush burning, monocropping and overgrazing lvill be avoided 'while fanners will easily embraced new practices such as agro forestry, which provides fanners with income and food all year round as well as protect the environmentfrom degradation.