Written by Wudu Abiye
In January, I travelled to Ethiopia to carry out a preliminary field survey. The aim of this visit was to gain a deeper understanding of the landscape before starting full-scale data collection.
For this trip, I selected Harbu, a district in the Amhara Region, as one of the main study areas for my research. Given that my project focuses on land degradation, it quickly became clear that this area would provide valuable insights. Across different parts of the landscape, I observed visible salt crusts forming on the soil surface. These white deposits are clear indicators of soil salinity. In many locations, salt accumulation was extensive enough to negatively affect vegetation growth and crop performance.
Surface salt accumulation observed in Harbu, Ethiopia. Photo credit: Hussein Seid.
I also observed a large and actively expanding gully along a steep hillside within the study area. The deep channel cuts sharply into the slope, removing substantial amounts of soil and leaving the surrounding land increasingly unstable. The loss of vegetation along the gully pathway has further accelerated soil detachment and downslope movement.
Expanding gully erosion caused by anthropogenic activities in Hitecha, Dessie, Ethiopia. Photo credit: Wudu Abiye.
A common practice among local farmers is the use of soil cover, or mulching, to protect and improve their fields. Crop residues and plant materials are spread across the soil surface to create a protective layer. During my field observations, I saw how this simple yet effective method plays a crucial role in maintaining soil moisture. The cover reduces evaporation, moderates soil temperature, and shields the soil from the direct impact of rainfall. As a result, it helps minimise erosion and surface runoff, particularly during periods of heavy rain.
Mulching also contributes to improved soil fertility. As the organic materials decompose, they release nutrients back into the soil and enhance its structure. Over time, this supports healthier crop growth and more stable yields. The practice reflects the practical knowledge of smallholder farmers and their ongoing efforts to sustain agricultural productivity under challenging environmental conditions.
Soil cover or mulching practices by small holder farmers. Photo credit: Wudu Abiye.
Another objective of my visit was to document landscape features across the study area. Each location was recorded using precise GPS coordinates to ensure accurate spatial referencing. At every site, I noted key physical characteristics, including landform type, visible indicators of land degradation, soil conditions, vegetation cover, and ongoing land management practices. This structured documentation enables precise mapping and supports subsequent spatial analyses. It also provides a reliable foundation for understanding landscape variability and assessing the extent and spatial patterns of land degradation within the study area.
Data recording by the researcher. Photo credit: Mahlet.
By walking through the site and documenting key features, I was able to refine the sampling locations and focus on areas most relevant to the research objectives. This preliminary assessment ensures that the subsequent data collection process will be targeted, efficient, and scientifically robust.
Surveying the landscape. Photo credit: Mahlet.
👉 Read more about Wudu’s research here.
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