Department of Water and Agricultural Resource Management

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Assessing Pastoralists’ Water Scarcity Coping Mechanisms during Drought in Mbeere South, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Nasumuni, Elinsia Pauline
This study investigated the impacts of water scarcity on the livestock production systems and the coping mechanisms adopted by pastoralists in Mbeere South, Embu County. Multiple data sources, including socioeconomic interviews with 50 households, focus group discussion, and informal interviews with pastoralists were used to capture various aspects of water scarcity and water scarcity coping mechanism. Results revealed that water scarcity events were increasingly frequent, and have negatively impacted pastoral livelihoods. In order to adapt to or cope with climatic anomalies, households are using a variety of strategies. In addition to the traditional short term coping mechanism, the long term adaptation strategy used included diversification of herd composition, livestock mobility to track forage and water resources and sending children to school for formal education as a long term investment expected to pay back through income from employment. Both qualitative and quantities approaches were used, the study employed a review of relevant documents, structured questionnaires and interviews of key informants and focus groups. Sampling methods were used at the household level to determine water scarcity impacts, and also it involved laboratory work where milk samples were taken for observation. Qualitative data were coded and subjected to thematic analysis, whereas quantitative data were subjected to descriptive statistics. The impacts of water scarcity on livestock were livestock mortality, food insecurity, low livestock products, low-quality products, reduction in livestock prices.
Assessing Water Supply Challenges in Kiutune
(University of Embu, 2017-04) Kimanthi, Stacey Kendi
Kenya is a water scarce country. Over time the struggle for water and its resources has increased leading to water shortages and increased tariffs. This is majorly attributed to climate change which has depleted some of the Nations water resources hence decreasing the quantity of water. This causes a problem when it comes to supply to households. In Kenya several families face many problems related to water supply in Kiutune.A descriptive study was used where 30 questionnaires were issued to 30 households to represent the entire population in the study area. Collected data was handled and managed in Ms. Excel then subjected to analysis using statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The results were presented on charts. The study results showed that there was no pipeline network in the area due to financial constraints, lack of technical personnel, negligence, lack of communication channels between the residents and water providers. The residents need to be enlightened on ways of storing water and taught on rainwater harvesting techniques.in conclusion the residents of Kiutune face challenges when it comes to water supply that should be addressed as soon as possible.
Assessment of Factors Limiting Organic Vegetable Farming in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mwagati, K. Alice
Agriculture as the backbone of the Kenya’s economy relies heavily on environmental resources. Therefore, for Kenya to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), environmental conservation must be enhanced through organic farming. This study focused on assessing the factors that limit organic vegetable farming. The study was carried out in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County. A survey research design was used where structured questionnaires were administered to collect data. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to code and keying the collected data. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the results. The results showed that farmer’s perceptions on organic farming, social-economic factors and environmental factors limited organic vegetable farming in the area of study. The farmers who had negative perceptions on organic vegetable farming did not practice organic vegetable farming while the farmers who had the positive perceptions inorganic vegetable farming practiced it. Socio-economic factors such as inadequate organic market, insufficient organic farm inputs and poor pest and disease control measures limited organic vegetable farming. Some of the farmers had no access to organic farm inputs and this limited their practice on this technology. Environmental factors such as changes in rainfall patterns and soil composition limited organic vegetable farming. Farmers opted to do conventional agriculture which they perceived requires a lot of moisture to dissolve and decompose the organic matter so that the nutrients can be released for the plant absorption. Soil composition also limited organic vegetable farming as some of the soil had poor or high infiltration rates. Nevertheless, majority of the farmers advocated in this type of farming technique in the area
Assessment of Factors Limiting Organic Vegetable Farming in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mwagati, K. Alice
Agriculture as the backbone of the Kenya’s economy relies heavily on environmental resources. Therefore, for Kenya to attain the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), environmental conservation must be enhanced through organic farming. This study focused on assessing the factors that limit organic vegetable farming. The study was carried out in Manyatta Constituency, Embu County. A survey research design was used where structured questionnaires were administered to collect data. Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to code and keying the collected data. Descriptive statistics was used to describe the results. The results showed that farmer’s perceptions on organic farming, social-economic factors and environmental factors limited organic vegetable farming in the area of study. The farmers who had negative perceptions on organic vegetable farming did not practice organic vegetable farming while the farmers who had the positive perceptions inorganic vegetable farming practiced it. Socio-economic factors such as inadequate organic market, insufficient organic farm inputs and poor pest and disease control measures limited organic vegetable farming. Some of the farmers had no access to organic farm inputs and this limited their practice on this technology. Environmental factors such as changes in rainfall patterns and soil composition limited organic vegetable farming. Farmers opted to do conventional agriculture which they perceived requires a lot of moisture to dissolve and decompose the organic matter so that the nutrients can be released for the plant absorption. Soil composition also limited organic vegetable farming as some of the soil had poor or high infiltration rates. Nevertheless, majority of the farmers advocated in this type of farming technique in the area.
Assessment of Maize Management Practices Predisposing Produce to Mycotoxin Contamination in Kirimari Ward, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2019) Mburu, Betty Njeri
Mycotoxin contamination in maize is a major occurrence that curtail optimal earnings and the quality of maize in Kirimari Ward, Embu County. Contamination of maize often occurs as a result of the maize ear rot diseases. Fumonisins and aflatoxins are the main mycotoxins that cause significant losses in maize in many developing countries, Kenya included. The understanding of mycotoxins contamination, their causes and effects is important as they are found all through the food chain, from field to fork once mycotoxin contamination occurs in stored grains. The research sought to describe the various maize management practices by farmers in the research area that could be contributing to mycotoxin contamination in maize. This study was of major significance since maize is a major food crop in Kirimari Ward, Embu County and its continuous contamination by mycotoxins could cause major health issues to animals and humans. The farmers in the study site had very minimal education levels and very small pieces of land. The farmers practiced traditional farming methods; they stored maize in traditional granaries, in polypropylene bags or plastic containers or stacked maize in the field for them to dry. From the collected data, maize management practices by farmers in the study site had a significant relationship to maize ear rots thus possible mycotoxin contamination of maize during storage. Also, the availability of training to the farmers was directly related to incidences of ear rot contamination in the research area being high in areas where training was limited. As per the findings of this research, mycotoxins could be associated with maize ear rot reported by the locals. This was mainly caused by the management practices that the farmers undertook. The researcher recommends the employment of different technologies such as use of aluminium silos to store their grains or even Aflasafe which was recently developed and is in use currently in use in West Africa for the control of aflatoxin.
Assessment of Rangelands Degradation, Its Causes and Impacts on Human Livelihoods: A Case Study Mbeere South Makima Ward
(University of Embu, 2019) Yussuf, Jamal Aden
angelands are areas in which the indigenous vegetation is predominantly grasses, grass-like plants, shrubs and arranged as a natural ecosystem. Rangelands degradation means the reduction in the rank and status of general plants and animals composition, energy flow and biomass of a particular ecosystem. Rangeland degradation is a major challenge in Kenya. Pastoralists utilizing degraded rangelands suffer from poverty and food insecurity. The aim of this study, therefore, was to investigate the effects of rangeland degradation in Mbeere South Sub-County, Embu County. The objective of the study was to identify the main indicators of land degradation in the area, assess the causes and impacts of land degradation on rangelands and also assess the potential methods for rangeland restoration. The study adopted the survey research design. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select respondents from the target population. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews. A target population of 30 households was interviewed and data analyzed using descriptive statistics in SPSS. The study provides crucial information on causes of rangelands degradation and contributes to the existing body of knowledge. The findings can be used by the local community and policymakers to address the challenge of rangeland degradation
Assessment of Strategies for Coping with Water Scarcity under Smallholder Cropping Systems in Kilome Area, Makueni County
(University of Embu, 2017) Mutisya, Mary Mwende
The issue of water scarcity and its impact on small-holder farmers is a reality in many developing countries including Kenya. With high population geared in rural areas most people depend on agriculture for livelihood. Rain fed agriculture remain to be the dominant source of stable food production and livelihood foundation of the majority of rural poor in sub-Saharan Africa. Knowledge of adoption strategies to water scarcity to increase production is critical for communities depending on agriculture. This study was based on the assessment of the coping strategies adopted by smallholder farmers to counter the problem of water scarcity and the challenges they faced. The study was conducted in Kilome area, Makueni County. For this purpose, hundred farmers were selected in the three locations within the area. Primary data was obtained through field visits to the farmers. Secondary data was obtained through oral conversation and other documentaries. Farmers in the area had adopted some measures that included, water and soil conservation, water harvesting, planting drought tolerant crops and conservation agriculture. However, farmers are faced with some challenges while adopting this measures that include, lack of funds, lack of technical knowledge, occurrences of disasters and lack of labor.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Using Garlic, Hot Pepper and Soap Spray in Control of Green Aphids (Brevicoryne brassicae L.) on Kales
(University of Embu, 2017) Atieno, Beatrice
Kale production in many parts of the world is mainly faced by the challenge of pests and diseases. Aphids are a major concern because they make the kales unsightly, reduce their quality, and vector several diseases. Farmers have over the years relied on chemical sprays to successfully control these aphids. The chemicals have however led to environmental pollution. Botanical control methods can be used to replace these chemicals in an attempt to promote environmental sustainability. The effect of various combinations of garlic (Allium vineale), hot pepper (Capsicum frutescens) and soap spray on green aphid population on kales was assessed in a greenhouse at University of Embu. The experiment included eight different treatments: 1.) Hot pepper spray 2.) Garlic spray 3.) Hot pepper and garlic spray 4.) Hot pepper and soap spray 5.) Soap and garlic spray 6.) Soap, garlic and hot pepper spray 7.) Chemical spray (Thiamethoxam 250g/kg) was used as a standard check 8.) Untreated plants were used as control. The experimental layout used was the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The experiment had eight experimental rows including the control. Each row consisted of ten planting bags. The experiment was replicated thrice. Kales were planted in planting bags and aphids allowed to infest the plants for three weeks before spraying began. Spraying was done twice; first spraying was three weeks after aphids were noticed, and second spraying five days after the first spraying. Data on the number of aphids on kale plants was collected just before spraying and twenty four hours after spraying. Of the botanical sprays, the soap-hot pepper spray showed a consistently higher reduction in number of aphids, followed by the soap-pepper-garlic combination, pepper spray, soap-garlic spray, pepper-garlic spray and garlic spray respectively. The rows that received the chemical treatment had the best overall reduction in aphid populations, whereas the control experiments always had varying number of aphids. Neither the chemical nor the botanical sprays showed any form of phytotoxicity on the kale plants. All treatments applied showed a significant (p < 0.001) reduction in kale aphid populations both in the first and the second treatment applications. It may be conclude that both pepper and garlic extracts are effective in the control of green aphids in kales, but their activity is increased by the addition of biodegradable potassium-based soap. It is recommended that the research should be repeated using different rates of the botanical extracts
Assessment of the Effects and Levels of Deforestation on the Rangelands of Kiritiri
(University of Embu, 2018) Onyango, Debrah
Deforestation of ecosystems is a major aspect of rapid ecological and climatic change globally. Kenya faces the risk of unproductive land due to deforestation. Water scarcity amongst other impacts of deforestation such as unpredictable weather patterns has become very evident. Habitat loss for fauna and extinction of flora is also notable. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the level of deforestation in Kiritiri. The increase in human population has led to increased rangeland disturbances through encroachment into these vital ecosystems. This alteration of vegetation patterns has significantly contributed to habitat loss for wildlife besides forage loss for livestock as invasive plants have also found their way into the grazing areas. Overexploitation of Kiritiri rangelands has contributed to rangeland deterioration over the past ten years. Unregulated exploitation compromises rangeland sustainability. The study also employed socio-economic survey that involved the use of questionnaires and interviews to ascertain the perceptions of the community regarding the level of extraction, the short term effects and long term impacts of the same. The study site was divided into blocks whereby quadrats were used to quantify the relative abundance of vegetation, and the derived sample estimated. The random and purposeful sample was used to determine the frequency and distribution of vegetation in the area using analytical methods. The great reduction in rangeland quality calls for combined efforts of range managers and communities to manage the rangeland ecosystems through dryland agroforestry, community-based wildlife conservation, preservation of endangered flora and fauna, awareness on rangeland economic value, waste management and Water-soil conservation.
Assessment of the Effects of Invasive Plant Species on Rangelands in Kiritiri
(University of Embu, 2017) Achieng', Raboc Nelvin
Species introductions of anthropogenic origins are a major aspect of rapid ecological change globally. The increase in human population has led to increased rangeland disturbances and hence the rapid spread of alien species to this vital ecosystem. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the impact of invasive plant species in Kiritiri. Development in Kiritiri town and other urban centres have contributed to rangeland deterioration through land-use practices such as grazing, crop cultivation and infrastructure. These activities, when not regulated, accelerate the invasion and spread of introduced plant species. The study also employed a socio-economic survey that involves the use of questionnaires and interviews to ascertain the perceptions of the local community regarding origin, impact and uses of the species. Seventy-eight per cent of the respondents indicated that invasive plant species presence has had a negative effect on biodiversity in Kiritiri through the loss of native vegetation. The study site was divided into five blocks whereby transects of 5m were used to quantify the relative abundance of the targeted plant species, which was Lantana camara and the derived sample size was estimated. The random and purposeful sampling was used for data collection and after processing, data was then analyzed using analytical methods in Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software version 23 and Chi square tests were done to test on significant variables among variables (p≤0.05). Invasive plant invasion was particularly likely in habitats disturbed by human activities. The study shows that Lantana camara is a major environmental problem in the study area through its swift colonization of strategic grazing reserves and is rapidly colonizing new areas. The findings of this study call for concerted efforts to manage the rangeland ecosystem through wildlife conservation initiatives, sustainable farming, dry land agroforestry, energy, water and soil conservation methods and proper waste management.
Assessment of the Impacts of Invasive Prickly Pear Cactus (Opuntia stricta) on Laikipia Rangelands
(University of Embu, 2019) Mugo, Karen Kanini
Prickly pear cactus was introduced into Africa during the colonial days as an ornamental plant. Presently, it has widely spread in the Kenyan rangelands and has become a major problem to the tropical countries, especially Eastern part of Kenya. The purpose of this project was to assess its impacts on Laikipia rangelands. All parts of this plant are highly regenerative, including seeds and other plant fragments. Dispersal methods are mainly through animals and water. The fruits are edible to some animals, and once they feed on them, they transfer the seeds to other places via their droppings. Animals may also carry plant fragments on their feet, thus transferring them to other places. Moving water may carry the fragments and deposit them to different places. This explains why the plant has highly invaded the rangelands. The plant highly invades disturbed sites, and overgrazing and deforestation are major factors that have contributed to the invasion. Measures to curb these activities need to be adopted to prevent further expansion. Climate change that is a result of global warming is also a major contributing factor to the invasion, as the plant is typical to warm and dry climates of the tropical regions. Increased atmospheric temperatures have created a conducive environment for its establishment and survival. The project employed a socio-economic survey that utilized questionnaires, observation, photographs and existing documented information methods of data collection to derive the most information that the community had about the plant, especially regarding its impacts and uses. Six different sub-locations were visited, and in each, one acre of land was selected as the study site. Here, rectangular-shaped quadrats were used to estimate the species abundance. Data was then analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software version 23. This research was aimed at improving rangeland condition by preventing further invasion of cactus plants.
Benefits Of Indigenous Trees Species for Restoration of Moist Forests, Mt. Kenya
(University of Embu, 2018) Livana, Asila Neville
Natural forests in Kenyan are important national assets that play critical roles in the economy while offering a range of ecological services. The early assault on natural forests involved clearing thousands of hectares to create farms and room for establishment of exotic plantation species known for their superior growth performance and economic returns since 1920s. Thus the development of multiple uses of natural forests for production of timber and environmental services is one strategy that is being discussed by policy makers and forest users. However, the strategy is hindered by limited information on potential yields and economic gains from use of indigenous species in forest restoration activities. Thus the main objective of this study is to find out various high potential tree species used in restoration of moist forest, their timber volume, financial returns and economic importance to the Kenyan economy. The study design will involve Stratified sampling of Irangi forest. Random sampling of selected trees and collection of data from secondary sources, it will also employ descriptive research design where observation will be used. Data analysis will be done using descriptive statistics. The generated costs of establishing and maintaining plantations and prevailing stumpage prices will be used in the financial analysis for study species. The expected outcome of this study is that there is a strong correlation between growth in yield per tree and age. Also the mean annual increment in volume of the indigenous species is relatively low as compared to competing exotic species.
Challenges in Alleviating Water Scarcity in Mutonguni Ward, Kitui County
(University of Embu, 2017) Kithendu, Brigite Maria
Water scarcity have become rampant worldwide especially in ASAL, s due to climate change and increased population where about two billion people live in water scarce areas. Efforts to alleviate water scarcity have born no fruits due to many challenges faced by the stakeholders involved in water provision and supply projects. This study focused in contributing to the mitigation measures to challenges in alleviating water scarcity. The study was carried out in Mutonguni ward located in Kitui West Sub County in Kitui County. A descriptive research design was used where survey method and observational studies were used to obtain data. SPSS and MS Excel Soft wares were used to code and key in data and then display it in tables, graphs and charts. The study revealed water scarcity to be at far extent in Mutonguni ward whereby acute, moderate and temporal extents were reported to be 56.3%,28.1% and 15.6% by the responses respectively. The major causes of water scarcity identified in this area were prolonged drought, population growth, biased distribution of water and broken down water supply system with the minor causes being water wastage by consumers and suppliers, pollution and use in irrigation. The government and other involved stakeholders have tried to alleviate water scarcity by erection of water storage facilities and companies, conservation of water sheds, creation of awareness, establishment of laws and policies on sustainable water use, establishment of water service boards and companies and promotion of conservation agriculture. However, they have not succeeded since they have been experiencing challenges like increase in climate change, rampant poverty levels, high illiterate nature of the residents of this area, political interference, conflicting sectorial laws and policies, change in government structure, increased urbanization and pollution of water resources. To improve sustainable water availability in this area, the community in cooperation with other stakeholders has to use the funds collected after selling water to improve and create more sources of water, issue incentives and subsidies to the people so as to protect water catchment areas, ensure all the runoff is harvested and stored for use in dry spells and control the population by use of family planning methods. The deliverables from this research work (the outputs) are directed to the primary and secondary beneficiaries who are supposed to take action and alleviate the problem of water scarcity and extend the benefits to the community and the environment and ensure that the research outputs lead to advances in relevant research fields. The research took a maximum of four months
Control of Aphids on Kales Using Gentle Soap and Garlic Solution
(University of Embu, 2019) Terer, Vincent Kipng’etich
Kale (Brassica oleraceae var acephala), commonly known as sukumawiki, is a crop that belongs to the Brassicas family. The crop is highly nutritious containing high levels of vitamins, minerals and brain-boosting phytonutrients. The crop is attacked by aphids that lower it quality thus fetches low price in the market. The study was conducted in the University of Embu. The location of the site lies within the geographical position 0.52S, 37.46E longitude and latitude respectively. The study required a farm size of 32.5m that would be enough to accommodate four treatments with each containing three replicates with spaces left for movement and operations covering 0.5m between the plots. For each plot, planting was done at a spacing of 30cm × 30cm which accommodated 9 plants per plot and a total of 108 plants for the main plot. The objective of the study was to investigate the effectiveness of control measure of aphids infestation of kales under four treatments namely; T1 – Garlic solution, T2 – soap solution, T3 combination of Garlic and soap solution and T4 – being a control experiment. The data shall be collected by counting the infestation of thrips per leaf collected randomly from the treatment application; two weeks after the kale plants are transplanted and established whereby the records on the aphid’s population shall be recovered with a period of five days interval for a period of one month. Data collected was subjected to analysis of variance using SAS computer software package and separation of means was done using least significant difference (LSD) at p<0.05. , combination of soap powder and garlic solution (T3) performed the best with the highest reduction in the aphids population hence could be an option of interest in the control. Following was soap powder solution (T2) and garlic solution (T1). It is recommended that the study be repeated for another season to confirm the results of this study which were based on one season.
Coping Strategies Addressing Water Shortages in Kiritiri Area in Mbeere Sub-County, Embu County
(University of Embu, 2017) Ndu’ngu, Nyakio Eliud
The study aimed at identifying the appropriate mitigation measures to curb water shortage at Kiritiri area in Mbeere Sub County. The study purposed to identify the causes deteriorating the water resources hence leading to the water shortages. The objectives of the study were to identify the sources of water, identify the main causes of water shortages arid identifying the strategies implemented to curb water shortages. Data was collected through administering questionnaires and direct observation. Research design used was stratified random sampling techniques to collect the information from the selected households or people. Data collected through questionnaires and direct observation was analyzed using the Statistical Package of Social Science and the results were presented in tables, graphs and charts form. The key findings included; lack of awareness creation on efficient of water, lack of full implementation of water harvesting techniques, pollution of water sources and misuse of water through irrigation of the farms, prolonged drought condition and leakages through broken or unmaintained distribution systems. The recommended measures include, fully practicing water harvesting techniques like construction of water pans and roof catchment of rain water, awareness creation on efficient use of water, pollution control and avoidance on misuse of water and repairing of broken pipes and distribution systems. The study intended to identify the best strategies which can suit the Mbeere Sub County area and would help supplement the little water they got from the area for their use
Determination of host specificity and resistance of sesame to Ralstonia solanacearum
(University of Embu, 2019) Kimutai, Aron
esame is a valuable source of vegetable oil. In spite the importance of this crop, little information is available on the infestation of this crop by Ralstonia solanacearum the pathogen that causes bacterial wilt in tomato and potato. There have been reports of sesame showing characteristic bacterial wilt symptoms in some parts of western Kenya. This research was conducted to determine the host specificity of R. solanacearum on sesame and evaluate disease resistance among local sesame cultivars. Four different sesame cultivars were used (KK4, Uganda, Sudan and Local White) and grown in a naturally infested greenhouse in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data was collected on plant performance, disease incidence and severity on selected plants in each of the experimental units. Collected data was subjected to ANOVA using Genstat at 5% level of significant. Sesame was found to be infested with R. solanacearum. On natural resistance, the Local white sesame cultivar was found to the R. solanacearum most tolerant followed KK4, Uganda and Sudan cultivars respectively. The resistance in the local white sesame cultivar can be exploited through further research to ascertain its efficacy in bacterial wilt management.
Determination of the Critical Growth Stage(s) to Control Moisture Stress in Tomatoes Production
(University of Embu, 2019) Wambui, Watare Grace
Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) is one of the major vegetables grown in Kenya as a commercial crop. Since the crop is susceptible to many pests and diseases greenhouse production under irrigation is more popular than open field production. Open field production is also common in hot and dry areas where water supply for irrigation is available. Apart from pests and diseases, tomatoes are also affected by various physiological disorders. One of the common disorders of tomatoes is blossom end rot caused by a calcium imbalance within the plant. The disorder is exacerbated by moisture stress since calcium is not mobile in the plant. Irrigation is therefore an important agronomic practice in tomato production. The main objective of this study was to determine the critical growth stage to control moisture stress in tomato production. The study was conducted in a greenhouse at the University of Embu. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four (4) treatments replicated three times. The treatments were: (i) no water stress (control), (ii) stress during the vegetative stage, (iii) stress during the flowering stage and (iv) stress during the early fruit set. Data was collected on number of fruits (yield), plant height, number of branches and number of leaves and occurrence of blossom end rot. The data was subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) at 5% level of significance. Optimal watering throughout the growing period of tomato produced the highest yield and the lowest level of tomato. Stress during the flowering stage had the highest yield reduction followed by those stressed at vegetative stage but both had significantly low incidence of blossom end rot. Moisture stress during the early fruiting showed the highest incidence of blossom end rot.
Determining Phosphates Levels on Water in University of Embu Dam One and Five
(University of Embu, 2017) Manyara, Paul Oroko
Water quality deterioration has become a worldwide problem in the recent years. Understanding the causes of this deterioration will help in prevention and remediation of the water quality deterioration. This project aimed at investigating the difference in phosphate levels in water in University of Embu dam one and five. The research design that was used is experimental type of research in which water samples from the two dams were collected, four times, for four weeks systematically, the amount of phosphates in the water from both dam one and five were measured. The findings indicated that dam one had more phosphates levels than dam five by 0.0098Mg/L. The difference in phosphate levels from the two dams provided a better understanding on effects of phosphates in water. This research findings, suggest various soil conservation measures to reduce phosphates concentrations in water in both dams.
Economic Impact of Rice Blast in Mwea
(University of Embu, 2019) Butagwa, Millicent
Rice is one of the most important cereal crops in Kenya coming third after maize and wheat. It forms a very important diet for majority of Kenyans and is the source of livelihood in the Mwea region, Kenya. The demand for rice in Kenya has increased dramatically over the last few years while production has remained low. This is because rice production has been faced with serious constraints notably plant disease of which the most devastating is rice blast. Rice blast is caused by Magnarpothe oryzae fungus and is the one of the most frequently and costly rice disease in the Mid-South and temperate rice growing regions. The aim of this study was to determine the economic impact of rice blast on yield of susceptible varieties, estimate the yield losses caused by rice blast on susceptible varieties in Mwea, and estimate the increased cost of production due to the rice blast disease. The study involved a survey in which a sample population of 50 farmers from a targeted population of 500 within Mutithi in Mwea region were interviewed. The collected data was analyzed using SPSS software. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the socio-demographic characteristics and farmers perception on rice blast disease. It was found that farmers in Mwea continue to count on average 14% yield loss every season due to blast occurrence. The degree of yield losses depended on the rate of blast infection; in 2014 the disease was most prevalent at 62% whereas the average yield loss being 39% per acre. The rice cultivar Basmati 370 was ranked as the most susceptible to blast in spite being ranked the most grown variety in Mwea; this is because of its high demand and market price. Farmers spent on average US $9.00 to mitigate the disease. However, it was noted that farmers could not realize the impact of rice blast on cost of production as the increased cost was covered by the premium prices of the rice. Our findings suggest that any reduction in blast via breeding will have significant positive impacts in reducing food insecurity in Kenya through increased supply of rice, as well as decreased price due to high productivity at a lower cost.
Effect of Different Weed Control Methods on the Yield of Common Bean
(University of Embu, 2018) Kaiyongi, K. Elizabeth
Weeds are major biological constraint influencing bean production. Poor agronomic practices such as lack of effective weed control methods are the major cause of poor yields in beans Yield of dry bean can be reduced up to 85% due to long season weed competition. Yield per unit area can be increased through effective of weed control. An experiment was set up at the University of Embu with the general objective to evaluate the effectiveness of different weed management systems in bean production. The specific objectives were to determine the most appropriate type of weed management method in bean production, to evaluate the effect of different of weed control methods on yeild of bean and to evaluate the effect of weeds on different growth parameters of beans. The experiment was a randomized complete block design replicated three times. Treatments were : mulching, mechanical weeding, chemical weed control using bean clean at 200ml/20L water and a control experiment. The plots measured 2M by 2M while the crop spacing was 0.50M by 0.15M. Seven plants were sampled from every plot. The data was collected at an interval of one week on the following parameters: number of pods per plant, plant height, number of trifoliate leave, life biomass, dry mass and weed population. The data was subjected to ANOVA for analysis using (SAS) statistical analysis software version 9.2 while mean separation was done using least significant difference (LSD) at P<0.05. Results obtained indicated that weed population was lowest in the nweeded check with an average of 76 weeds per m whereas the chemical weed had the lowest with 61 plant per m2. The results also showed that mulching gave the highest plant height although it has no significant difference from the other treatments. Chemical weed control had the highest number of trifoliate leaves because the weeds were effectively controlled although it has no significant difference from the others.

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