| Abstract | Noting that there is considerable pressure on land in Nepal, and in particular in the Hindu Kush-Himalayan (HKH) Region, the paper examines the potential for contour hedgerow technology in conserving soil whilst maximizing crop production in the alleys between the hedges (alley cropping). Issues discussed are: the effect of soil erosion on farmland; the need for conserving farm technologies; the concept and application of contour hedgerow technology; a summary of ICIMOD's findings on contour hedgerow technology application in the HKH; and further considerations for wider application in the HKH region. Contour hedgerow technology provides some or all of the following benefits: considerable reduction in soil loss; green manure and mulch for companion crops; biologically fixed nitrogen for companion crops; improvement in runoff water infiltration; favourable conditions for beneficial soil organisms; high-protein fodder for livestock; and staking materials and/or fuelwood. A list of 12 of the most suitable species for contour hedgerow technology are presented. |