Combining local knowledge and soil science for integrated soil health assessments in conservation agriculture systems

The challenges of soil degradation and climate change have led to the emergence Conservation Agriculture (CA) as a sustainable alternative tillage-based agriculture systems. Despite recognition positive impacts on health, CA adoption in Africa has remained low. Previous health studies mainly focused ‘scientific’ measurements, without consideration local knowledge, which influences how farmers interpret future land management decisions. This study, based Malawi, aims 1) combine knowledge conventional science approaches develop contextualised understanding impact health; 2) understand an integrated approach can contribute explaining farmer decision-making management. Key farmers' indicators were crop performance, consistence, moisture content, erosion, colour, structure. These consistent with indicators. By combining observations we observed that improved structure, (Mwansambo 7.54%–38.15% lower for CP; Lemu 1.57%–47.39% CP) infiltration (Lemu CAM/CAML 0.15 cms−1, CP 0.09 cms−1; Mwansambo CP/CAM 0.14 CAML 0.18 cms−1). In practice, perceived ridges redistribute nutrients, corresponded recorded higher exchangeable ammonium 76.0 mgkg −1, CAM 49.4 51.7 −1), nitrate/nitrite values 200.7 171.9 103.3 −1). perception contributes popularity ridges, despite yield measurements under 3225 kgha-1, 5067 5160 kgha-1; 2886 2872 3454 kgha-1 ). carbon benefits residues ridge preference promoted burying ridges. Integrated more nuanced localized perceptions about We propose stepwise assessment framework developed this study be applied widely role farmer-decision making, providing learning process downscaling technologies widening evidence base practices.