Soil Loss Estimation and Community Awareness Assessment on Integrated Watershed Management: The Case of Lake Hashenge Watershed, Tigray, Ethiopia

Abstract

Ethiopia is recognized as one of the most severely affected regions by soil erosion globally, posing significant threats to its national economy. This study investigates soil loss estimation and community awareness within the framework of integrated watershed management in the Lake Hashenge watershed, Tigray, Ethiopia. The mean annual rainfall and total drainage area of Lake Hashenge watershed is 988.7 mm and 129km2 respectively. Utilizing the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) model, we quantified soil erosion rates and identified critical areas prone to severe soil loss. Our findings indicate significant soil degradation, exacerbated by both natural and anthropogenic factors. The estimated soil loss yield entering Lake Hashenge in the form of sheet and rill erosion was 61.94 tons/ha/year. According to the universal soil loss factsheet, the soil loss estimated in the watershed was categorized as severe, indicating that the lake is in danger. Concurrently, we assessed community awareness and participation in soil conservation practices through surveys and interviews with a multidisciplinary team of researchers. The results reveal a moderate level of awareness and engagement, highlighting the need for enhanced educational and participatory approaches to foster sustainable watershed management. This research underscores the importance of integrating scientific soil loss assessments with community-based integrated watershed management strategies to mitigate soil erosion, protect the lake from sedimentation, and promote environmental sustainability in the region.