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

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.