Investigation of the Impact of Stone Bunds on Erosion and Deposition Processes Combining Conventional and Tracer Methodology in the Gumara Maksegnit Watershed, Northern Highlands of Ethiopia

Abstract

Ethiopia is one of the most populous countries in Africa, with over 85% of the total population dependent on agriculture. Massive deforestation in the past and missing soil and water conservation (SWC) measures cause severe soil erosion problems in the northern highlands of Ethiopia. Different SWC methods are supposed to prevent ongoing land degradation. A common technique used is the construction of stone bunds. Though the expected effect is a reduction of surface runoff and soil loss, their behaviour and effectiveness is not always clear, and their performance seems to be strongly dependant on their age.