Impact of Vetch Cover Crop on Runoff, Soil Loss, Soil Chemical Properties and Yield of Chickpea in North Gondar, Ethiopia

摘要

Cover crops improve the sustainability and quality of both natural systems and agro ecosystems. In the Gumara-Maksegnit watershed which is located in the Lake Tana basin of Ethiopia, farmers usually use a fallow period during the rainy season after the preceding chickpea crop. This fallow period can lead to soil erosion and nutrient losses. Instead of a fallow period, cover crops can be used as a nutrient reduction strategy and soil erosion protection measure for producers to consider. This is identified as an area where research is lacking, and where studies are needed to better assess impacts of vetch cover crop on soil loss and nutrient management in watersheds.