A Handbook for the Field Assessment of Land Degradation - 9781138465411

Taylor & Francis

Presents simple, non-technical indicators for assessing land degradation. This handbook shows how to calculate indicators such as those of soil loss. It focuses on understanding the farmer's interaction with the land, and how environmental protection, food security and the well-being of rural land users may be assured. > \nWith the increasing concern over rural livelihoods and the food security of poor communities in developing countries, it is vital that land quality is maintained. Yet, land degradation is widespread and is lowering the productive capacity of the land in these countries. This practical handbook presents simple, non-technical indicators for assessing land degradation in the field. Based on the perspective of the farmer, the methods selected lend meaning to real farming situations, helping the field professional to understand not only the impact of degradation but also the benefits to be gained from reversing it.\nThe handbook shows how to calculate indicators sucha