Animal traction has been an integral part of most agricultural systems in Ethiopia for thousands of years. There is evidence that cattle were first used for ploughing in the latter part of the third millennium BC (Goe and Astatke, 1989). Today, the traditional cattle economy is directed mainly to...
Astatke, A.
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Mohamed-Saleem, M.A.
,
[Draught animal power for land-use intensification in the Ethiopian highlands]
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Draught animal power for land-use intensification in the Ethiopian highlands
This paper discusses the traditional management of vertisols and land-use types the broadbed maker (BBM) and its evolution; Maresha - a traditional plough; additional attachements to the BBM for improving tillage efficiency and resource conservation; the land-use intensification opportunities; an...
Astatke, A.
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Jabbar, M.A.
,
[Low-cost animal drawn implements for Vertisol management and strategies for land use intensification]
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Low-cost animal drawn implements for Vertisol management and strategies for land use intensification
The main aim of land preparation is to modify and manipulate the land features so as to create favorable environment for seed establishment and crop growth. The research and Development in this field must take into account the traditional practices used by the farming community. This case study g...
Astatke, A.
,
Jabbar, M.A.
,
[Low cost animal drawn implements for Vertisol management and strategies for land use intensification]
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Low cost animal drawn implements for Vertisol management and strategies for land use intensification
This paper highlights some interventions which might alleviate agricultural pressures on steep slopes and reduce land degradation in parts of the Ethiopian Highlands. The Ethiopian highlands are losing alarming amounts of soils (estimated at more than one billion, 1000 million, tonnes) annually. ...
El Wakeel, A.
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Astatke, A.
,
[Intensification of agriculture on Vertisols to minimize land degradation in parts of the Ethiopian highlands]
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Intensification of agriculture on Vertisols to minimize land degradation in parts of the Ethiopian highlands
This chapter reviews relevant Vertisol properties, experimental results and the overall experience of the project on this subject. There are several types of drainage problems in Vertisols whose magnitude may vary from site to site. Drainage improvement is discussed in relation with camber beds, ...
This chapter describes the distribution, use and importance of Vertisols in Ethiopia and indicates the study sites of the Joint Vertisol Project. Land and soil features are examined with particular reference to parent materials and landscape features, soil characterisation (colour, texture and de...
Srivastava, K.L.
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Abebe, M.
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Astatke, A.
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Haile, M.
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Regassa, H.
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[Distribution and importance of Ethiopian vertisols and location of study sites]
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Distribution and importance of Ethiopian vertisols and location of study sites