Land cover and use changes in the rangelands of Central-Uganda: Impacts on soil quality and pasture productivit

Abstract

This study determined the patterns and magnitudes of land cover and use changes, their driving factors and impacts on soil quality and pasture productivity in Nakasongola district. Satellite data (1970 - 2009), surveys, soil and pasture sampling techniques were used. Woody and bare encroachments are major changes affecting soil quality and pasture productivity. Changes in fire regimes, poor stocking densities, termites, climatic variability and tree cutting are major drivers of the land cover and use changes. Sustainable management practices are required to avert current trends of degradation if the integrity of rangelands and pastoral livelihoods are to be saved from extermination.