Document Type
Thesis
Degree
Master of Science (MS)
Major/Program
Environmental Studies
First Advisor's Name
Manadev Bhat
First Advisor's Committee Title
Committee Chair
Second Advisor's Name
Assefa Melesse
Third Advisor's Name
Michael McClain
Fourth Advisor's Name
Pallab Mozumder
Date of Defense
5-8-2009
Abstract
The Mara River in East Africa is currently experiencing poor water quality and increased fluctuations in seasonal flow. This study investigated technically effective and economically viable Best Management Practices for adoption in the Mara River Basin of Kenya that can stop further water resources degradation.
A survey of 155 farmers was conducted in the upper catchment of the Kenyan side of the river basin. Farmers provided their assessment of BMPs that would best suit their farm in terms of water quality improvement, economic feasibility, and technical
suitability. Cost data on different practices from farmers and published literature was collected. The results indicated that erosion control structures and runoff management practices were most suitable for adoption. The study estimated the total area that would be improved to restore water quality and reduce further water resources degradation. Farmers were found to incur losses from adopting new practices and would therefore require monetary support.
Identifier
FI14032367
Recommended Citation
Atisa, George, "Economic assessment of best management practices in the Mara River Basin : toward implementing payment for watershed services" (2009). FIU Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1333.
https://digitalcommons.fiu.edu/etd/1333
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