IMPACTS OF LAND USE ACTIVITIES ON MARURA WETLANDS; UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

The study sought to investigate the impact of land use activities on Marura wetland and was guided by the following specific objectives; to establish the main land use activities around Marura wetland, to assess the impact of anthropogenic activities on wetlands and to determine the causes of wetlands degradation. Secondary sources of data were used in mapping the effects of anthropogenic activities through GIS and remote sensing techniques. Primary data was collected using household questionnaires and observation on the main landuse activities while. Purposive sampling method was used and collected data were analyzed using SPSS and Excel. The analyzed data was presented in tables, charts, graphs and narratives. The study indicates that 193(98%) of the respondents identified the most important aspect of the wetlands as a source of water in the community while Agriculture as the major cause of degradation to Marura wetland. This is because people have encroached inside the wetlands increasing the loosening of the soils and causing soil erosion and reduction in the water table. The findings of this study is of great significance to the community, NEMA and the County Government of Uasin Gishu as it will help in coming up with the best landuse practices for sustainable utilization of wetlands. The study recommends participatory management plan be developed and implemented to curb exploitation of the wetlands resources and coming up with environmentally friendly landuse practices which will sustain the marura wetlands for posterity.