Common Features Of Successful Strategies In Conservation Policy

Abstract

In the past, most measures to control land degradation were implemented before the underlying problems were diagnosed and before alternative strategies had been given active consideration. Some features that are common to successful conservation strategies are identified and discussed. Experience gained from past conservation strategies suggests the need to understand the rationale for the apparent misuse of land, involvement of farmers/pastoralists in problem diagnosis and solution design, integrating conservation into farming systems, making greater use of biological techniques in environmental control and developing a comprehensive approach to conservation. Goals and targets of conservation efforts are usually quite difficult to define using scientific tools. Nevertheless an alternative 'best management practices' approach is discussed. The example of the contribution of the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) to soil conservation efforts in Kenya is discussed. The need to improve extension and research services, improve communication and documentation, and expand training activities is stressed.