Effect of land use changes on some important soil properties in cotton-based farming system in Burkina Faso

ABSTRACT

Continuous and intensive cropping without restoration of soil fertility has depleted the nutrient base of most soils in the semi arid zone. A field survey was carried out in 2000 in Bala village in the cotton production zone of western Burkina Faso to assess the effect of land use changes on soil chemical and physical changes. The methodology consisted of land use analysis at contrasted periods; field sampling and measurements; and farmers' interview. Land use analysis was done at three periods 1952; 1981 and 1999. Soil samples were taken in farmers' fields selected on the basis of their equipment level and the cultivation duration. Two fallows were selected and considered as control situation. Aerial health facilities. There is an urgent need for health education and health promotion programmes in this population for early booking for antenatal care. Further investigations are needed to establish the risk factors for; causes of and preventive interventions for anaemia in pregnancy