Repository :: Browsing by Author "James, Renatus"

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Soil erosion and sediment yield analysis: a case of Mbwemkuru river basin in Lindi, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2013) James, Renatus
Mbwemkuru River Basin has a jurisdiction area of 16,255km2. The basin faces serious problems of sedimentation of small dams and lakes. Moreover, water quality degradation and loss of topsoil due to erosion. The focus of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution of the soil erosion, sediment yield estimation and identify management scenarios useful for controlling soil erosion in Mbwemkuru River Basin. The semi-distributed hydrological model soil and Water Assessment Tool was desirable method in this study. SWAT model used in mapping soil erosion prone areas and estimation of sediment yield in the basin. The model results helped to outline management strategies that can be taken by government and communities to control soil erosion. Unsustainable agricultural practice in the study area has increased the rate of soil erosion and high rate of sediment loading in the basin. The estimated annual average sediment yield in the basin was 716.12 tonnes/km2/Year. This study recommends harmonization of laws and policies, raise awareness, community involvement and adequate enforcements of laws and regulations. Further studies recommended for pinpointing source of sediment yield in each sub basin and the age of sediment deposited at the mouth of the Mbwemkuru River Basin (the Indian Ocean).