Abstract

Majaliwa Mwanjalolo Jackson Gilbert, Magunda Matthias K, Tenywa Makooma Moses, Semalulu Onesmus and Rusoke Charles

This study determined the efficiency of contour bunds in controlling soil and nutrient losses from annual crops, bananas, coffee, and rangelands in the Lake Victoria catchment. Soil and nutrient losses were quantified using a runoff plot approach. Runoff plots measuring 15 m x 10 m were established on each agricultural land-use and were replicated four times for banana and three times for annual crops, coffee and rangelands.. Runoff data was collected for one year prior to the establishment of contour bunds. The bunds were hand constructed 5 m above each plots, and data was thereafter collected for three years. Soil and nutrient losses were significantly higher on annuals compared to other land-uses (P<0.05). Contour bunds efficiency in controlling soil loss increased linearly with time on all land-uses (P<0.05); while for runoff losses it gradually increased only for coffee and rangelands (P<0.05). For nutrient loss the contour bunds efficiency varied with the type of nutrient and land-use type.