Analysis of a market assessment survey to help promote lake restoration of Lake Bosomtwe and increased livelihoods forsmall-holder farmers

摘要

During the summer of 2018, a market assessment survey was conducted to create a comprehensive baseline survey of agricultural and fishing practices within the Lake Bosomtwe area, providing small holder-farmers the opportunity to share their needs, insight, and input into a demonstration farm design. Interviews were conducted in the 12 villages located along the lake's shore. Within the last seven years, the lake has been subjected to overfishing and environmental degradation. The loss of fish has forced residents of the area to have to transition from fishing to subsidence farming as their main vocation. These people have little to no experience in areas such as crop rotation, fertilizer use, and erosion control. Unfortunately, this has resulted inmore problems within the lake and continued loss of fish. People living within the impact crater currently cultivate crops in clay soils, with shallow soil profiles, often on the sides of hills with 20% slope or greater. Farmers from the 12 villages within walking distance to the lake participated in individual interviews of a 140-question survey. Data collected were: demographics, land use, farming practices, water sanitation, personal hygiene, and participation in fishing. Spatial data were also collected for drinking water sources, pit latrines, and village centers. This survey data will serve as a comprehensive assessment for the area and guide the development of the demonstration farm. Analysis of collected market assessment data is essential to determine the correct elements for inclusion in the proposed extension demonstration farm.