Impact of Land use Interventions on Crop production:: A case of Payment for Ecosystem Services Scheme in the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania

A case of Payment for Ecosystem Services Scheme in the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania

Abstract

It was not known whether land use interventions promoted by payment for ecosystem services (PES) scheme had an increase in crop production. The study assessed the impact of PES scheme interventions on crop production in Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania. Specifically, the objectives of the paper were to (i) compare crop production before, during, and after PES scheme, and (ii) to examine factors affecting crop production. To achieve these objectives 219 randomly selected households were involved during data collection using a questionnaires survey. In addition to this, focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews were employed whereby checklists were used. Multiple regression was used to assess factors influencing crop production. A repeated measure ANOVA was used to compare crop production before, during, and after the PES scheme. The results show that, there was an increase of crop production for maize, beans, and rice where bench terraces and grass strip farming were practised, and where enough labour force was available and extension services were accessible. Farmers realise benefits using the proper interventions promoted by PES scheme, which are beyond the incentives that were provided to them. Thus, the study recommends that farmers be encouraged to continue practising bench terraces and the promoted grass strip interventions because they are appropriate for crop production and ecosystem management.