Author : Da Costa, Delfim

Summary : Timor-Leste is currently battling the effects of soil degradation that resulted from a long history of socio-political unrest followed by decades of poor land utilization and unhealthy farming practices. As a step towards ameliorating the presently deplorable conditions, this study was conducted to provide baseline information on the state of soil health in the Raumuco Watershed. Additionally, and with the recognition that the success of any future efforts targeted to improve soil health requires the full and sustainable participation of communities, baseline data on the socio-economic characteristics of farming communities were also studied. The relationship of soil health and the farmers' farming practices were investigated to identify the best avenues for adjustments and potential policy recommendation. Results of the study showed that soil physical properties In the watershed are characterized by high bulk density, poor porosity and low organic matter content. In areas where slash-and-bum is practiced, soil pH remain neutral, nitrogen is low but close to optimum level in the upstream and the midstream areas, but very low in downstream farming areas. On the other hand, phosphorus is extremely high in the upstream but very low in midstream and downstream zones. Potassium remained low but close to optimum level in the entire watershed, regardless of landscape position. In areas where free grazing is practiced, soil pH remain neutral but with very low nitrogen and potassium levels in the entire watershed. In contrast, phosphorus is very high in the upstream but very low in midstream and downstream areas. Key socio-economic factors that appear to directly influence farming practices include the farmers' big family sizes (5-8 members), low literacy levels, and very low incomes. Their source of energy also remains to be wood and therefore, firewood gathering, together with livestock-raising, are the most common alternative sources of livelihood...