EFFECTIVENESS OF VEGETATION IN SUSTAINABLE SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION FOR SOIL QUALITY ENHANCEMENT IN BERA-SALAYISH WATERSHED, CENTRAL ETHIOPIA

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of vegetation in promoting sustainable soil and water conservation and enhancing soil quality in the Bera-Salayish Watershed. The study used both quantitative and qualitative data collected from primary and secondary sources. Vegetation data was collected using a systematic sampling design with three transect lines/replication across upper, middle, and lower elevation zones, each containing three land use categories (exclosure, open grazing, and agricultural land), with 60 plots established along transect lines to measure vegetation parameters such as species composition, structure, and diversity. Soil data was also analyzed to assess the effectiveness of the vegetative soil and water conservation (SWC) measures across different land use categories (exclosure and open grazing land) and slope classes (upper, middle, and lower). The study followed a randomized complete block design (RCBD) so that vegetation and soil data were statistically analyzed using two-way ANOVA to determine the effects of the independent factors. The results show that a total of 125 plant species were identified, with 59.2% woody species (49 shrub and 25 tree species) and 40.8% herbaceous species. Fabaceae was the most dominant woody plant family, while Poaceae was the most dominant herbaceous family. The upper and middle elevation zones exhibited greater species richness and diversity. Certain species, like Euclea racemosa, had the highest importance value index (IVI) in the watershed. While the exclosure area had better soil properties, such as higher soil depth, SOC, TN, Av-P, Mg2+ and K+ the vegetation regeneration was not effective in the watershed. Recommendations include implementing effective vegetation management strategies, expanding exclosure areas, adopting sustainable land management practices, and conducting further research to understand the complex soil-vegetation interactions. Implementing these measures can help rehabilitate the vegetation cover, conserve soil and water resources, and improve the overall sustainability of the Bera-Salayish Watershed.