A Synthesis of Restoration Practices for Degraded Croplands in Dryland Regions

Restoration of degraded croplands are needed to ensure the sustainability of rain fed agriculture, and, thus food security, to meet the growing demands for food, fibre and shelter. Unsustainable agricultural techniques, land and water use, and climate change impacts are the main drivers for the degradation of drylands, which has resulted in the decline of ecosystem services, food insecurity, social and political instability. It has reduced ecosystem resilience to climate variability. The typical rehabilitation measures for restoration of degraded agricultural land are achieved through using agronomic and biological techniques, such as crop rotation, agroforestry, cover crops, vegetative filter strips, residue, and zero or reduced tillage.

This study evaluates and provides recommendations for significant gains and successes that have been made by governments, local communities, non-governmental organizations, the scientific and research community, as well as other stakeholders. This project identifies the challenges in the restoration of drylands and suggests recommendations for dryland restoration.