Evaluation of Existing Soil Conservation Measures in Central Highlands of Sri Lanka Through Participatory Approach

Abstract

The central highland of Sri Lanka is highly vulnerable to soil erosion. A number of programmes
supported by donor funded projects have been implemented within the last three decades with the aim of
sustainable management of land resources. However, farmers are reluctant to adopt measures to reduce the soil
erosion and even when soil conservation structures are adopted, farmers fail to manage them. Hence, this study
was conducted to assess the adoptability of different soil conservation options in central highlands of the country.
Multi Criteria Analysis was applied with the participation of farmers and field officers to assess existing soil
conservation options. The assessment was based on physical effectiveness, economic viability and the social
acceptability of soil conservation measures. According to the evaluation of farmers and field officers, forwardslope terraces, reversed- slope terraces, bench terraces, grass strips and mulching are the best five conservation
measures among evaluated options and bench terraces has been ranked to be the most effective soil conservation
technology. Selection of soil conservation measures is highly dependent on the assumed benefits, input cost and
personal attitudes of the individual farmer. Hence, an effective mechanism to change farmers’ attitudes may
significant to mobilize them towards modified conservation techniques.