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Abstract
The main aim of this study is to evaluate the farmers{u2019} perception of soil degradation and use of conservation methods in Katsina state, Northern Nigeria. Data for this study was collected via interviews, soil data analysis and field observations. The study area was divided into three distinctive zones according to rainfall distribution for easy access of the required data. Methods of data collection involved the use of Purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data collected through questionnaire were analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Science), Version 15.0, while questions involving multiple options were analysed using Excel. Mini tab was employed to determine the analysis of variance (ANOVA) in the soil samples of the rainfall zones. The results revealed that homogeneity exists among the farming systems of the three zones. Farmers in the north rainfall zones cultivate Millet, Sorghum, Groundnut and Cowpea; those in the central zone cultivate Cotton, Sesame, Guinea corn and sometimes Beans, while those in the south rainfall zone cultivate Maize, Cotton, Cowpea and sometimes Guinea corn. Farmers{u2019} knowledge and perception revealed that; deforestation, stoniness in the soil, inadequate tree planting, low crop yield, colour change of crops, rill formation, decreased grass cover, lack of fertilizer among others are indicators of soil degradation, it is also clear that; fallowing, crop rotation, weeding and terraces among others are part of the management strategies of maintaining soil fertility. Results also indicated that the Farmers in the three-rainfall zones after controlled removal of all valuable residues, the fields were open for pastoral herds and village flocks for over grazing during the rest of the dry season