Evaluating inland valley agro-ecosystems in Ghana using a multi-scale characterization approach

English

As part of measures for improving the productive capacities of inland valley systems for rice-based cropping systems, a published multi-scale characterization approach was used in Ghana to assess the constraints and variables which must be understood before agronomic interventions are made. Macro, reconnaissance, semidetailed and detailed levels of characterization at their respective scales were used. Between 1996 and 1999, Geographical Information System (GIS) and transect studies were carried out, after which the extent of variability in the biotic and abiotic characteristics of two agro-ecologies were identified. Ten agro-ecological units were identified for Ghana based on map overlays and cluster analysis. The method allowed for the selection of Mankran and Jolo-Kwaha watersheds representing the equatorial and savanna agro-ecologies, respectively. Socio-economic parameters (markets, population density and suchlike) were recognized as the essential variables, which should be considered alongside lithology, climate, hydrology and others, for the choice of valleys for development interventions for crop production. At the detailed level of characterization, hydrological and soil characteristics underscored the need to properly understand the watershed-level and valleyspecific constraints before meaningful rice-based research and cropping systems are developed.

Narteh, L. T.; Moussa, M.; Otoo, E.; Andah, W. E. I.; Asubonteng, K. O.