Impact of soil erosion on the socioeconomic sustainability of agricultural activities in the Mboun watershed, Senegal

Abstract

Soil erosion is one of the primary causes of environmental degradation affecting developing countries, including Senegal. This study focuses on the Mboun watershed, a region vulnerable to erosive processes. Its aim is to assess the impact of erosion on the socio-economic conditions of local populations by analyzing the causes and manifestations of the phenomenon, as well as the control strategies implemented by local and state actors. The methodological approach integrates data collected using measurement stakes and household surveys. The results reveal that the tropical ferruginous soils, widely present in the watershed, are particularly vulnerable to water and wind erosion due to their low cohesion and low organic matter content. Erosion has led to a loss of 12% of the cultivated area over the past ten years, causing an average decrease of 15% in annual agricultural production and income. These negative impacts have repercussions on the food security of local populations and jeopardize livelihoods in the region. The control strategies currently employed face financial obstacles and a lack of institutional support. This study highlights the importance of implementing integrated watershed management programs, including agro-ecological practices and the restoration of vegetation cover. These measures would help reduce erosion, improve soil resilience, and promote sustainable agriculture in the Mboun watershed.