Journal of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences

Ecotourism potentials and development in Kaffa Biosphere Reserve: A case study of Gimbo Woreda, Ethiopia

Eshetu Moges, Atinafu Sahile — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Kaffa Biosphere Reserve is rich with varied types of tourist attractions, which give the area a great potential for cultural and educational tourism. The study attempted to examine the ecotourism potential and development in the Kaffa Biosphere Reserve Area, Ethiopia. For this purpose, a total of 218 sample respondents were selected for interviews in three local districts by using a simple random sampling method. The Weighted Sum Method tool was used among various tools of Multi-Criteria Decision Methods for assessing the tourism potentials of the study sites. In addition, questionnaire and key informant methods were used to assess the attitudes and perceptions of local communities towards ecotourism potentials in the area. Data was analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages, while inferential statistical analysis was done using the chi-square test. The study had confirmed that the Kaffa Biosphere Reserve is endowed with high potential of tourism attractions in areas of biodiversity, socio-cultural and physical resources. The findings showed that the mean score for attitudinal statements about local people’s involvement in ecotourism development activities was 3.10. However, a slightly lower proportion disagreed with the same statement that local people were not involved in tourism development. The proportion of respondents also showed a significant difference (χ² =96.114, df =1, p=0.00<0.05) in their perception of whether the biosphere can serve to enjoy people or not. In addition, the level of awareness on tourism resources in the area was significant (χ² =60.457,df =1 p=0.00<0.05) among respondents.

Assessment of farmers’ perception and forage species diversity of grazing lands in area enclosures and non-enclosures in the Highlands of Ethiopia

Hirut Ketemaw Adimassie, Bimrew Asmare, Yeshambel Mekuriaw — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The objective of this study was to assess farmers’ perception and forage species composition of area enclosures and free grazing lands in Farta District, Ethiopia. The study area was classified into three altitudinal zones, and within each altitude, one kebele was purposively selected. A total of 150 households (40 in the mid-altitude, 60 in the high altitude, and 50 in the very high altitude) were randomly selected and interviewed. For the assessment of species composition, richness, diversity, and evenness of forages, three area enclosures and one free grazing land were purposively selected. Within each site, five 1 m × 1 m (a total of 60) quadrats were established. Data from farmers’ perceptions were analysed using SPSS, version 23. Forage species composition data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the general linear model (GLM) procedure of SAS (2002) version 9.0. Of the respondents, 60% in the mid-altitude, 96.27% in the high altitude, and 54% in the very high altitude areas reported that the establishment of area enclosures in the communal grazing lands is a very important and effective land management option. Overall, the majority (72.7%) of the respondents had a positive attitude towards the availability of better quality and more abundant feed sources for their livestock. The main benefit identified by all respondents (100%) of the three sites in the area enclosures is that they can harvest feed for animal and help them to follow a feeding system such as cut and carry system and making hay. The forage diversity assessment showed that a total of 18 (28.6%), 10 (15.9%), 29 (46%), and 6 (9.5%) grass, legume, forb, and sedge species, respectively, and 15 woody species were identified in the study area. Of the total herbaceous species,according to respondents, 22.2, 19.0, 39.7, and 19.0% were classed as highly palatable, palatable, less palatable, and unpalatable, respectively. The highest species richness (22.75) at very high altitude and diversity (2.26) and evenness (0.82) in mid-altitude were recorded in the area enclosures. Overall, it can be concluded that the establishment of area enclosures provides socioeconomic and environmental benefits, including better availability of grass for animal feed, improved forage composition, control of soil erosion, and increased productivity of adjacent farmlands.

Integrated use of Eisenia fetida for bioconversion of water hyacinth and as alternative fish meal substitute in aquaculture

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Invasive aquatic plants like Water Hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes) pose serious environmental threats, while conventional fishmeal use in aquaculture remains ecologically and economically unsustainable. This study investigates the potential to integrate the use of red worms (Eisenia fetida) for managing water hyacinth biomass through vermicomposting, and producing red earthworm meal as an alternative protein source for fish. Water Hyacinth, combined with cow manure in four treatment groups, was subjected to a process of vermicomposting trial using a CRD. Simultaneously, red earth worm meal obtained from the composting process was evaluated as Nile tilapia diets, replacing fishmeal at 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% levels (T1–T5). A total of 225 fish fingerlings (7.39 ± 0.34 g; 6.13 ± 0.55 cm) were fed diets with 30% crude protein for 60- day feeding trials. The growth performance of fish was monitored biweekly, and feed was adjusted accordingly. Results showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in compost yield and quality among treatments. The highest vermi-compost productivity was observed in the mixture of water hyacinth sludge and cow manure. Vermi-compost from water hyacinth root + shoot and cow manure exhibited the highest electrical conductivity, while the water hyacinth root + cow dung treatment yielded the highest pH. Statistical analysis using SPSS v20 and Tukey's HSD revealed that partial replacement of fishmeal with red earth worm meal supported optimal growth without adverse effects. This study highlights a circular, eco-friendly approach to aquatic weed management and sustainable aquaculture by converting invasive weed biomass into nutrient-rich compost and protein-rich fish feed.

Effects of plant spacing and variety on growth bulb yield of garlic (Allium sativum L) at Koga Irrigation Scheme, Ethiopia

Tewachew Getahun, Dessalegn Sinke — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a widely cultivated and economically important crop, valued both as a condiment and a cash crop. However, its production and productivity is often low, which is obviously influenced with plant population and the variety used. A field study was therefore conducted to evaluate the growth and yield performance of garlic varieties under varying intra- and inter-row spacing during the main cropping season at the Koga Irrigation Scheme. The experiment followed a factorial arrangement of three inter-row spacing (20 cm, 30 cm, and 40 cm), three intra-row spacing (5 cm, 10 cm, and 15 cm), and three garlic varieties (Chelenko I, Tseday, local variety) laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The results demonstrated that the length and diameter of bulbs were significantly affected by spacing and variety. Chelenko I exhibited superior agronomic performance, achieving the highest bulb length (3.737 cm) and bulb diameter (3.972 cm). The 10 cm × 30 cm spacing produced the largest bulb (4.232 cm in diameter and 3.908 cm in length). The highest fresh biomass yield (134.27 g plant⁻¹), dry biomass yield (61.40 g plant⁻¹), dry matter content (30.70%), and mean bulb weight (41.59 g) were obtained with Chelenko I at 10 cm x 30 cm spacing. The maximum total bulb yield (14.737 t ha⁻¹) was recorded with Chelenko I at 5 cm x 20 cm spacing. In conclusion, Chelenko I planted at 10 cm intra-row and 30 cm inter-row spacing is recommended for enhanced growth yield and bulb quality at Koga Irrigation Scheme. As the study was conducted in one location and season, it is also recommended to repeat the study in more locations and seasons.

Drivers of agricultural extension service delivery on soil and water conservation practices: evidence from North-Western Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Girmachew Siraw Misganaw, Tesfaye Worku Moges, Beneberu Assefa Wondimagegnehu — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In Ethiopia, the successful implementation of Soil and Water Conservation (SWC) practices relies on the efforts of Development Agents (DAs) who provide support and guidance, as well as the willingness of farmers to adopt these practices. Hence, this study aimed to assess farmers’ opinions on the adequacy of SWC extension services; identify factors affecting the job performance of DAs; and identify factors affecting farmers’ receipt of SWC extension services. The study was conducted in the Western Amhara Region of Ethiopia in three administrative zones. Data were collected using a questionnaire survey, a self-administered questionnaire, and a checklist from nine kebeles, comprising 383 and 87 randomly selected farmers and DAs, respectively. The study found that farmers perceived DAs have been performing adequately for only approximately 40% of all types of SWC extension services. The result also confirmed that DAs have been performing effectively for only 35.7% of all types of SWC extension functions (five normative extension functions out of 14), and the remaining 64.3% of extension functions were performed poorly. Multiple linear regression model results confirmed that sex, age, and work experience are negatively related to DA’s job performance, whereas educational qualification is positively related. On the other hand, the model confirmed that sex and land holding size have been negatively related to farmers’ receipt of SWC extension service, whereas age, cosmopolitanism, and social participation are related positively. Therefore, the study concludes that farmers’ demand-driven extension service delivery is more effective when the above-listed farmers’ personal, socio-economic, and institutional characteristics are addressed, and policies and legal frameworks are in place to guide the extension service delivery. The Amhara National Regional State should deliver timely job training courses for DAs to enable them and update their skills in the areas of SWC practices.

Assessment of ecotourism as a sustainable development pathway for local communities in Semien Mountain National Park, Ethiopia

Negussie Engdawork Mengstie, Gashaw Tilahun Desta — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Protected areas are essential for biodiversity conservation and serve as major tourism assets, particularly in developing countries such as Ethiopia. This study provides an integrated assessment of ecotourism as a sustainable development pathway in the Simien Mountains National Park. It examines stakeholder participation, resource potential, market dynamics, and sustain-ability outcomes by exploring the roles of ecotourism associations and local beneficiaries. Key natural and cultural attractions are identified, and market segmentation was analyzed to under-stand visitor characteristics and motivations. Environmental and socioeconomic impacts are assessed alongside the main ecotourism activities and income sources that support local livelihoods. Data were collected from 128 respondents using a mixed-method approach that combined quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Quantitative responses were evaluated using a five-point Likert scale to measure agreement on benefits, challenges, and sustainability issues, while qualitative insights provided a deeper understanding of conservation attitudes and community involvement. Moreover, Focal focus group discussions and secondary data were used for further triangulation of ecotourism’s contribution to environmental protection and livelihood improvement. Findings showed that ecotourism was the second-largest income source for local households after crop and livestock production, with more than 7,000 individuals directly benefiting. Respondents identified village tourism (70.35%), adventure tourism (70%), wildlife and bird watching (68.7%), and trekking (66.4%) as key opportunities. Challenges include weak organizational structures (69.6%), limited tourism activities (64.7%), and inadequate facilities (58.6%). Negative impacts perceived include seasonality (79%) of the job, cultural disruption (62.13%), and local inflation (50.1%). Tourist numbers increased from 1,289 in 2000 to 27,980 in 2017, with revenue rising from 230,000 ETB to 23.6 million ETB. Overall, ecotourism contributes to foreign exchange earnings, employment, and infrastructure development. Strengthened collaboration among government, NGOs, and local communities is recommended to ensure long-term ecotourism development to minimize threats such as seasonality of jobs, cultural erosion and local inflations perceived by the local communities in the park.

Impacts of different exotic tree plantation forests on soil physico-chemical properties in the Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Yadesa Bato, Tamrat Bekele , Sebsebe Demissew — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to assess the impacts of plantations of different exotic tree species (Eucalyptus globulus, Cupressus lusitanica, Grevillea robusta, and Pinus patula) on soil physicochemical properties in the central highland of Ethiopia. Soil data were collected using a systematic sampling design over five different forest land-use systems. A total of 15 transect lines and 25 quadrats were used to collect soil data, with 3 transects and 5 quadrats per forest land-use system. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) for the majority of soil physico-chemical variables, including texture, moisture content(MC); bulk density(BD), particle density(PD); soil porosity(SP); organic carbon(OC); total nitrogen(TN), Avial. P, soil pH, EC, CEC, and exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K, Na) showed a significant variation among forest land-use systems at (P<0.0001). The study findings confirmed that different exotic trees species have different effects on soil physico-chemical properties. In comparing the soil physicochemical properties among five forest land-use systems, the highest mean values of MC, OC, TN, available P, CEC, and Exch. Ca, Exch. Mg, and Exch. K was observed in natural forests. On the other hand, soil BD, PD, and EC properties in natural forests were significantly the least. In contrast, the lowest mean values of soil MC, SP, O, TN, available P, BS%, and the highest mean values of BD, PD, EC, and Exch. Na were observed under the Eucalyptus globulus plantation forest. The physico-chemical properties of soil are subject to significant changes in land use systems when different exotic tree species are grown under similar climatic conditions.

Agroecological variations in the rural household resilience to climate change in Gubalafto District, Ethiopia

Melkamu Sete Wereta, Zemen Ayalew Ayele, Yilebes Addisu Damtie — Sat, 27 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Climate change poses significant challenges for rural households, particularly in farming communities, leading to crop loss and reduced incomes that threaten livelihoods. This study analyzed resilience capacity of rural households to climate change, the case of Gubalafto distracts, Ethiopia. Moreover, the study examined the effect of agroecological differences on the households' resilience level. The study utilized a survey research design, in which gathering data from 355 households selected through random surveys. Principal component analysis, analysis of covariance, and descriptive statistics were employed to analyze the data. This study presents an estimation of the overall household resilience capacity, derived from three key dimensions of resilience: absorptive, adaptive, and transformative capacities. The analysis revealed significant loadings for these dimensions, with values of 0.612, 0.534, and 0.583, respectively, indicating their importance in building resilience capacity. Moreover, findings reveal that 44% of households were found to be have a low resilience capacity index (RCI), while 37% and 19% were a medium, high, with an overall mean RCI of 0.33. Surprisingly, lowland households demonstrated a higher average climate resilience score compared to midland and highland households, with p-values of 0.02 and 0.001, respectively. However, no significant difference was found between midland and highland households. Relevant institutions should prioritize investments in communication infrastructure, institutional services, and social safety nets. Particular emphasis should be given due emphasis to highland and midland agro-ecological zones, where targeted support is essential for strengthening household resilience capacities.