Assessment of Best Practises and Experience in Water Harvesting

Rainwater Harvesting Handbook

African Development Bank

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. General description......................................................................................................................1
1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1 Definition .......................................................................................................................................... 1 Overview of RWH concepts............................................................................................................ 1 Current use....................................................................................................................................... 4 Main reasons and scenarios to utilize of RWH. ............................................................................ 5 AfDB strategic approach to RWH ................................................................................................. 7 Current practices and experiences................................................................................................. 9 Participation, gender issues, demand driven, partnership ........................................................ 11 RWH as project activities ............................................................................................................. 12 Proposed standard design procedures (AfDB) related to RWH, .............................................. 13 Decision tree on RWH................................................................................................................... 15 Check list for necessary information, studies and data.............................................................. 15 State of the art monitoring indicators.......................................................................................... 21

2.

Implementation approaches and strategies ................................................................................7

2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4

3.

Topologies and check list...........................................................................................................13

3.1 3.2 3.3

4. 5.

RWH monitoring indicators and schedules..............................................................................21

4.1

References ..................................................................................................................................22

Annex A: Suggested ToR regarding RWH for CSP, Sector and Project Missions ........................27 Annex B: Decision tree on RWH in domestic water supply ............................................................28 Annex C: Decision tree on RWH in agriculture..............................................................................29 Annex D: Summery data sheets........................................................................................................30
1. Domestic Rainwater Harvesting (DRWH) .......................................................................................... 31 2. Rock and other surface catchment systems ........................................................................................ 35 3. Sub-surface Dams, Small Dams, and Sand Dams............................................................................... 38 4. Earth dams and water ponds/pans....................................................................................................... 40 5. Recharge Structure ............................................................................................................................... 42 6. Conservation Tillage ............................................................................................................................. 45 7. Planting Pits (Zai, Zay, Chololo, Matengo, Ngoro) ............................................................................ 48 8. Katumani Pitting ................................................................................................................................... 50 9. Semi-circular bunds or hoops, Demi-lunes, or half moons ................................................................ 52 10. Negarims............................................................................................................................................... 56 11. Tied Contour Ridges (furrows or bunds) .......................................................................................... 59 12. Fanya-juu Terracing ........................................................................................................................... 62

13. Contour Stone Bunds .......................................................................................................................... 64 14. Earth Bunds with external catchment (Teras).................................................................................. 67 15. Contour Ridges with external catchments ........................................................................................ 69

ANNEX E: Key actors.......................................................................................................................71

Disclaimer : The authors of this handbook assume no responsibility whatsoever for the use of this handbook and any recommendations made. All information and data is intended to be guiding principle only and detailed information is advised to be obtained during actual programming of rainwater harvesting projects.

1.
1.1

General description
Introduction

Rain Water Harvesting (RWH) techniques have been utilized throughout time as some irrigation methods have been used by the people of Ur (present Iraq) around 4500 BC and are at present used in India (Khadin structures). Today rainwater harvesting is being used worldwide for drinking (human and livestock) and agricultural purposes. Previously, the concept of rainwater harvesting has received very little consideration (especially for drinking purposes) in larger donor financed projects, but recently, with the increasing pressure on available water resources, renewed interest has emerged. The main objective of this handbook on rainwater harvesting is to provide AfDB with an effective reference tool for including various rain water harvesting approaches and techniques in the programming and design of projects. The data and recommendations in the handbook are based on available literature and findings made during field trip in March 2006 to three African countries.

1.2

Definition

Water harvesting in its broadest sense can be defined as the "collection of runoff for its productive use". Runoff may be harvested from roofs and ground surfaces as well as from intermittent or ephemeral watercourses. Water harvesting techniques, which harvest runoff from roofs or ground surfaces fall under the term Rainwater Harvesting while all systems which collect discharges from watercourses are grouped under the term Floodwater Harvesting1.

1.3

Overview of RWH concepts

Micro catchment In situ RWH (conservation tillage)/on the field water conservation (zai, negarim, contour bunds, fanja juu, demi-lunes etc.)

It has been chosen to summarize the concepts of rainwater harvesting as seen below:
Domestic RWH Individual (HH) or institution (schools etc.) roof catchment systems Small scale dams Check dams, sand dams (sub-surface dam), water pans, ponds or pits (charco), earth dams

Surface catchment Rock, concrete, plastic sheets, treated ground surfaces or other suitable surfaces

External catchment Run-off diverted into field (contour stone bunds, trapezoidal bunds etc.)

Domestic and livestock consumption, nurseries, small-scale irrigation

Productive purposes and food security, water and soil conservation

Productive purposes and food security, water and soil conservation

Domestic (consumption, personal hygiene, cooking, cloths washing)

In-situ RWH is also called water conservation and is basically a prevention of net runoff from a given cropped area by holding rain water and prolonging the time for infiltration. In-situ RWH is achieved mainly by conservation tillage and has in this handbook been merged with micro catchment.
1

Pilot Project On Water Harvesting In The IGAD Region, P.6

Construction of larger dams with storage capacity normally above 100.000 m3 could be categorized as rainwater harvesting. Nevertheless these multi purposes structures will not be treated in detail further in this handbook.2 Domestic rainwater harvesting (DRWH) Harvesting of rainwater on roofs at individual, community or institutional level Consists of roof, gutters, first flush device and storage tank. Rain pattern, catchment area and storage capacity determines the quantity. Collected water normally has a high acceptability to user both in term of taste and appearance. The quality of water (avoidance of contaminants like faecal coliforms, turbidity and insect larvae) can be controlled by proper operation and simple disinfections techniques if needed. Useful in areas with rainfall between 200 and 1000 mm. Especially favourable in areas with two separated rainy seasons Areas with more or less rainfall also potential depending upon available water resources and water quality. Mainly used for domestic purposes

Individual household domestic RWH, Ruiri, Meru district, Kenya

Community domestic RWH, Losimingori village, Monduli district, Tanzania

Surface catchment systems Harvesting of rainwater from rock outcrops/slopes, concrete surfaces, plastic sheets or treated ground surfaces. Consist of catchment area, retention and conveyance structures and storage tank/reservoir or even low yielding wells (recharging aquifers with rainwater categorized as recharging structures). Water quality acceptable to beneficiaries (taste and appearance) Safe water for human consumption can be assured with proper O&M and simple disinfections techniques if needed. Useful in arid and semi arid region (rainfall between 200 and 750 mm) even semi-desert (< 200 mm) depending on area of surface catchment. Used for domestic and livestock consumption mainly.

These are well known techniques/implementation approaches and frequently used in AfDB rural development projects for example Burkina Faso, Eritrea, and Ethiopia.

Rock catchment structure at Musul, Laikipia district, Kenya (from 2001)

Concrete catchment structure near Mtimmoja, Monduli district, Tanzania (from 1945)

Small scale dams Harvesting of rainwater/surface run-off within water shed and storage in various types of reservoirs. Consist of retention structure (earth dams, stone masonry/concrete dams or simple excavated ponds), structures to extracting water (for example hand dug wells, or horizontal intake pipes connected to well shaft). Water quality acceptable to users and normally consumed without any further treatment. Safe water for human consumption can be assured with proper water extraction structures and simple disinfections methods if needed. Highly functional in arid and semi arid region (rainfall between 200 and 750 mm) even semi-desert (< 200 mm) depending on water availability (scarcity) and available catchment area (suitable landscape). Used for domestic, livestock and small scale irrigation (e.g. kitchen gardening).

Water pan, Isiolo district, Kenya

Sand dam, Laikipia district, Kenya

Charco, Monduli district, Tanzania

Micro catchment (inclusive of in-situ conservation) Overland flow/run-off harvested from short catchment length Catchment length between 1-30 metres Runoff stored in soil profile Ratio catchment: cultivated area (CCA) usually 1:1 to 3:1 Since handling normally only small flows, no provision for overflow Plant growth is even Use to replenish soil moisture, increase crop production and soil conservation.

Zai, Kadiogo, Burkina Faso

Half moon, Kadiogo, Burkina Faso

Planting pit, Machokos, Kenya

External catchment systems (rainwater harvesting) Overland flow or runoff harvested from catchments of areas ranging from 0.1 ha to thousands of hectares Diverted from farms land, hill side, pasture, home counds or even roads Runoff stored in soil profile or even stored in ponds, tanks or groundwater aquifers. Catchment 30 - 200 metres in length Ratio catchment: cultivated area (CCA) usually 2:1 to 10:1 Provision for overflow of excess water Uneven plant growth unless land levelled. Use to replenish soil moisture, increase or ensure crop production.

Contour stone bunds constructed and after 2 yrs, Kadiogo, Burkina Faso

Constructed reservoir to capture runoff near Makutano, Kenya

1.4

Current use

Collecting, capture or diverting rainwater for various productive usages is wide spread. Especially for agricultural purposes and soil/water conservation, the use of micro and external catchment structures has been adopted in numerous projects and is considered as state of the art approaches. In addition, several international organisations and institutions conduct substantial research on methods to augment water availability for food production (e.g. FAO, IFAD and RELMA). Provision of sufficient water for livestock, also utilizes standard rainwater harvesting structures like earth dams, water pan, charcos etc. Water captured by these structures is frequently used for domestic purposes and human consumption although the water quality could be problematic and unsafe. The use of rainwater harvesting for domestic purposes is generally less institutionally accepted and some reservation exist at various levels. The key implementers are limited to individual initiatives (household or

institutions), NGOs and religious organisations with a few exceptions in areas, where other water source options are scarce for example in Northern Kenya, where surface catchment and small scale dams are commonly used as an standard acceptable solution for provision of sufficient water for human and livestock.

1.5

Main reasons and scenarios to utilize of RWH.

Water shortage or inferior water quality is still a severe problem for millions of people in Africa (as well as else where) and a hindrance for economical development. It is estimated that 200-500 million m3 of rainfall is lost in the form of runoff in Sub-Saharan Africa each year, which could potentially irrigate substantial areas. Even in places with less serious water shortages, demand for additional water is dominant. Since the use of rainwater harvesting in general is widely under-utilized, there is even more reason to focus and expand the use in a more structured manner. So the overall objective and reason to utilize concepts and techniques of rainwater harvesting is to optimise the use of the available rainfall on any given location. As one district executive director in Tanzania expressed it water is available during rainy seasons and even available in huge quantities during torrential showers. But quickly into the dry season, community starts complaining of lack of reliable water sources. For domestic use, rainwater harvesting can be applied advantageously under the following scenarios/areas: Conventional water supply systems based on boreholes (groundwater) or perennial surface water sources are not technically feasible. This will typically be in areas with insufficient or even no yields from groundwater wells, no or limited perennial rivers or other surface water bodies and lastly cases where available water resources has been polluted. Groundwater based water supply systems (e.g. hand pumps) could be vulnerable to seasonal fluctuations of the groundwater level and rainwater harvesting structures could be a complementary or security water supply. Groundwater might be quality-wise problematic (fluoride, arsenic, hardness, salinity etc.) and no easy accessible surface water resource is available. Regular water supplies are under pressure and thereby unreliable and insufficient. Rainwater harvesting structures like domestic RWH could be a complementary supply. This is normally caused by increased population density and thereby lessening the amount of renewable water per capita. Conventional water supply systems might be technical possible, but for socio-economical reasons not attractive. This could be villages on hill tops (where a conventional WS system would include pumping machinery and thereby complicated and expensive O&M) or remotely located villages with limited households, where provision of regular piped water supply can only be achieved at a unreasonable high cost (long supply pipe lines).

For provision of water for livestock, rainwater harvesting can be applied advantageously under the following scenarios/areas: Inhabitants are mainly pastoral herders; rainwater harvesting structures that augment the quantity of water available throughout the year is highly appreciated. This will typically be earth dams, water pan, excavation ponds etc. Note that these structures also become source of water for domestic purposes and even small scale irrigation. Natural occurring water pans already used seasonally by pastoral herders. The capacity of these water pans can be increased and operation and maintenance practices can be introduced to the communities using participatory rural approaches.

For agricultural (or soil/water conservation) purposes, rainwater harvesting can be applied advantageously under the following scenarios/areas: Rain-fed agriculture produce a low yield (< 1 tons/ha) High on land water loses (runoff unacceptable high). Soil erosion predominates (caused by short and intensive downpours) and the sustainability of potential farmland requires soil erosion control and water management. High risk of meteorological droughts/dry spells Rainfall inadequate and poorly distributed over the cropping season to produce acceptable crop yields. Areas with a demand for food security. In areas, where farmers already use traditional RWH techniques, but need for improvement and expand required. RWH used for the production of maize, paddy rice and vegetables crops that can be sold for cash.

In all scenarios above, most rainwater harvesting techniques would be applicable. The selection depends on landscape, slope, rain fall and rain pattern, soil type, crop and availability of local material and labour

2.
2.1

Implementation approaches and strategies

AfDB strategic approach to RWH

The basis of AfDB activities in the water sector is the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) policy adopted in April 2000. This policy is based on the principle that water should be treated as an economic, social and environmental good and policies and options that guide water resources management should be analyzed within a comprehensive framework. Its central objective is to promote efficient, equitable, and sustainable development through integrated water resources management. In line with these policy principles and objectives, a number of strategies have been elaborated based on institutional, technical, economical, social and environmental issues. This integrated approach to water management and development discards the purely technological approach and provides a good entry point for balanced interventions in more of a programme approach rather than a project approach that have a greater chance of sustainability. The integrated approach does not, however, include rainwater as a resource and regards RWH as an innovative technology. These stances are reflected as well in the Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Initiative and in the African Water Facility that has been spearheaded by the AfDB. Over recent years several RMCs have developed Water Policies that explicitly mentions RWH and there seems to be a desire to move towards including this issue in approaches and technologies being applied both in water supply and agriculture. This desire seems to be borne from necessity as water scarcity problems are being felt in many RMCs in recent years caused by irregular rainfall patterns and mounting pressure on available water resources with conflicting demands of a rising population and the various economic sectors. In this context, provision of water utilizing all sorts of known techniques is important and hence rainwater harvesting, which normally is underutilized, has a huge untapped potential to become a significant element in water resources management. Although the policies are being developed and formulated with recognition of RWH as an element, there is still in the administration, among technical staff both centrally and locally in ministries and local authorities a sentiment that RWH techniques is technically backwards and really belonging to the initiative of NGOs and private households. As mentioned above, this is specifically valid for usage of RWH for drinking water service provision, whereas the usage of RWH for livestock and agriculture purposes is more acceptable, utilized and even well embedded. There is therefore a tremendous work of documentation of potential and use of RWH for drinking water service to be done in the policy making committees and groups, in the formulation of goals, regulations, procedures and inclusion in the institutional setup of the water sector. To have the concept effectively integrated in the public structures is one of the fundamental prerequisites for expanding the effective and economic use of the technologies. Inspiration on how to address the issue of RWH as drinking water provision can be found in a DFID financed research project on Very Low Cost Domestic Rain Water Harvesting (VLC DRWH) which have the following recommendations:3 National Water Policies should recognise rainwater as the third source of water for development and management
Based on Very Low Cost Domestic Roofwater Harvesting in the Humid Tropic: Its Role in the Water Policy, DFID/University of Warwick, April 2003, p. 11.
3

 Rights to develop private water should be established Development of water should be decentralised and communities should be empowered to select the best option depending on the demand. Water sector reforms should minimise conflicts among different policies for water development Water legislations should reflect the country policies for water resources development and should not contradict each other Development of National Water Resources policies under sector reforms should be consistent with other existing policies and repeal any objectionable clauses for development of Domestic Rain Water Harvesting (DRWH). DRWH should be given equal priority in establishment of new institutions for water resources management Education and Awareness on DRWH should be taken as priority for all water professionals Institutional responsibility for development and sustainability of DRWH should be included in future water sector institutional development plans Household water supply through multiple water sources should be encouraged Policies should include a subsidy for the poor and the disadvantaged to adopt DRWH with suitable community contributions as equity. In relation to the AfDB Group Operations Manual4 the following can be remarked: Related to Country Strategy Paper: Water scarcity is clearly a Major Constraint to Development so RWH can be a major element in a strategy to overcome this. The Operations Manual nonetheless does underline that it should be avoided to emphasise on natural constraints (for example spells of drought) for which there is no solution. Therefore the approach is to look at management (of water resources) and mitigation (of water shortages). This would include: Assessment of water resources policies ensuring that RWH is mentioned, use, mapped, potential quantified and goals set and institutionally anchored. That subsidy policies include RWH solutions Assessment of land use policies ensuring security of holding of land to encourage investment in RWH structures Assessment of agricultural development strategies inclusion of soil & water conservation and other RWH strategies Assessment of EIA policies whether RWH issues are treated reasonably Private sector development is the business environment favourable for small scale entrepreneurs

These analyses will clearly identify areas of intervention which can be included in the focus of the project pipeline.

Project Brief (inclusion in Provisional Lending Programme)

4

Operations Manual, AfDB, June 1999

If the focus is clear in the CSP, the Project Brief shall start the more detailed formulation of activities gathering information to ensure that the RWH components are not only in line with RMC and AfDB policies but also are conceptually, technically, socially and environmentally sound. This will mean that there must be a range of information available on what works and how related to RWH; all the general specifications that task managers needs. This includes : Relation to policies and goals of government Specific objectives Outputs and indicators Institutional responsibilities Technical issues Financial issues Institutional issues Environmental issues Policy Issues Assumptions and risks

Project Identification (inclusion in Provisional Lending Programme) Project Identification collect information needed and clearly indicating to the Borrower what is feasible and what may not. In water related projects it will be important to explicit evaluate RWH options Sector Identification discussion sector policies and development issues and updating pipelines. Updating on RWH issues in policy development

Appraisal Report Building on the identification making sure that RWH issues are followed up and quantified directly in LFA.

These issues are further developed in the next section. Realising that the concept is viewed with some scepticism, demonstration projects and research are still necessary (for example the Karamoja Cluster Pilot Project - Water Harvesting in the IGAD region (WAHIR)) in many countries and areas. Furthermore development of policies, documentation, regulations and procedures should respect the fact that the single most important issue for sustainability of interventions remains the ownership of the beneficiaries. Suggested aspects and issues to be included in Term of Reference for Country Strategy Assessments/Papers, Project Identifications and Project Appraisals are enclosed in annex A.

2.2

Current practices and experiences

RWH is of crucial importance in most areas in Africa with water stress or scarcity - be it in domestic water use, water for livestock and for crop production. RWH technologies are applied and to a certain extent supported by the relevant authorities, donors and NGOs as well as by private initiative. The major focus is on facilities that are communal (water pans, earth dams, subsurface dams, rock surface catchments) and provide communities with water supply service for either livestock watering, domestic water or both. In the semi arid areas of Tanzania and Kenya, RWH structures has been used for years, but as a consequence of the recent water crises, these techniques has been reinforced and today are the main types of interventions in these areas. In Burkina Faso RWH is mainly applied for agriculture and livestock purposes and project interventions are again based on techniques that have been in general use in the country for years.

Data on use of RWH is not easily available. The Ministry of Water in Tanzania has initiated a preliminary survey5 - suggesting that the numbers of rooftop catchment systems are about 2500 in the whole country. But it is believed that the numbers are an understatement and the actual number of HH utilizing RWH techniques is much larger. In Kenya local water authorities acknowledge the importance of harnessing the RWH resources in a country where the annual renewable water resources available are 660m3/capita6, but there is no actual data or estimation on the use of RWH relative to other technologies or in relation to overall water supply7. Such data have not been available for Burkina Faso either. Therefore estimations of the use of RWH are rather on an anecdotal basis such as all households use RWH for domestic purposes in some form or most farmers use water conservation techniques or information from specific areas8. The major driving forces are the economic activities in agriculture. Livestock among pastoralists obviously have absolute priority and any measure that effectively improves the watering of the livestock will be adopted (earth dams, excavated water pans etc. widely used). Likewise in agriculture soil and water conservation is being widely practised and promoted and sustainable systems are developed and managed by farmers with little external assistance (micro catchment structures). In domestic water supply a number of schemes have been financed by government, donors and NGOs, but user contribution is not widespread. Rooftop DRWH systems remain restricted in use by the apparently prohibitive costs of storage. In economic terms it is difficult to justify, but in practise most people would like to have it. This arises from several issues namely reliability of household based systems and the convenience of having water point close to point of use. The major issue that has arisen from field assessments regarding the viability and sustainability of RWH investments and measures is the question of ownership see also section 2.3. It is no news and is included in all manuals as essential and the single most important issue. Nonetheless, the establishment and setting up clear guidelines for contributions and participation and abiding remains difficult. Often government and/or projects step in and provide assistance irrespective of beneficiary performance or adherence to agreements thus creating a culture or attitude of dependence. Political pressure, spending pressures or time restraints makes it difficult to avoid, but without effective adoption by the beneficiaries, the investments will soon be lost. This was observed in all AfDB project areas visited and beneficiaries were routinely asking for assistance rather than being proactive. Even in cases where traditions would proscribe effective methods of maintaining investments9. At the political level the governments are including RWH in official policies and also starting to actively encourage it by supporting community groups, water resource user associations (WRUA), NGOs and others. Likewise the extensions services are providing support on RWH techniques in agriculture. But the use of RWH for drinking water provision is still regarded as an alternative solution, it is not in the mainstream of activities and only gradually is it finding its way into work plans. With regards to AfDB projects, RWH is being increasingly considered (including projects in Burkina Faso, Kenya and Tanzania), but concrete interventions contributing to development of RWH at this stage is limited.
Interview with Eng. Dorisia Mulashani, Rural Water Department, MOW, Tanzania, 24.03.06 According to Mr. Maitima, Regional Manager, Water Resource Management Authority, Ewaso Ngiro North River Basin Region. 7 Allegedly it was part of the questions of the latest census, but the mission was not able to obtain that data. 8 Information from Soil and Water Specialist, Paul Kimeu from Machakos was that 20% of households in the district (inhabitants around 900,000) have individual RWH systems and that all people have access to water from RWH sources. Rainwater Harvesting for improved Food Security, by Stephen Ngigi, lists some of the more important projects in Kenya and quotes Erik Nissen Petersen as reporting that there are more than 1000 sanddams in Kitui district (p.78). 9 Reference is made to field visit to the Badana Water Pan in Sericho Division of Isiolo District. The pan was constructed by the catholic diocese of Isiolo. Although the Boran community have traditional laws and procedures to ensure desiltation of water pans (reference : The Indigenous Approach to Water Pans Management in Northern Kenya : The Boran Community Case Study, ENNDA, June 2004) and the community was organised to engage a watchman, the relatively simple task of desilting was not done and the community asked ENNDA for help.
6 5

10

In Burkina Faso, the Small Dam Rehabilitation Project is concentrated on rehabilitation of multi purpose dams with an integrated local management concept (integrated water user committees) to be established and the stringent demand responsive approach. Nonetheless, anything new, lessons learnt or best practices related to rainwater harvesting are limited. The Decentralized and Participatory Rural Development Project in the Bazga and Kadiogo Provinces is a classic rural development approach with numerous interventions and activities. The components relevant to this rainwater harvesting study are the implementation of microcatchments (zai, half moon, stone contour bunds) and construction of 2 new and rehabilitation of 7 multipurpose reservoirs. In Kenya the Ewaso Ngiro North Natural Resources Conservation Project is starting up operations and is in the process of developing it structure and approaches. The project is based on a number of concrete experiences from the area and will based the interventions on among other things a well established MIS with data on geology, hydrogeology, hydrology, water availability, water quality etc. But there no practical experience has been accumulated by the project. Nevertheless there is in Kenya a long tradition for using RWH and a large number of interventions throughout the country have been carried out. In Tanzania, the Monduli District Water Project is using RWH technologies for provision of water for livestock (earth dams and water pans). For urban and rural water supply, domestic RWH was never considered in the feasibility stage and has therefore not been introduced. Only conventional water supply techniques have been utilized. The option of domestic RWH would have been specifically useful in Monduli district, as the distance between households or cluster of houses is significant and the maximum walking distance to water point applied by the project of 4 km so the convenience of having water close to house (domestic RWH) would have been preferred by many. In addition, the technique is well known and used in the area (Monduli) and lastly the cost per HH for conventional water supply structures is high (above 500 USD/HH), so a domestic RWH solution would be cost competitive. In the IGAD region, the pilot project Water Harvesting in the IGAD Region (Northern Kenya and Uganda, southern Ethiopia and Sudan) is starting to set up operations and it seems that the prospects in the region are very good, but it is too early to draw conclusions. In Ethiopia the Agricultural Sector Support Project has RWH as an integrated component with concrete indicators, but again this project is just starting up and no information has been gained yet.

2.3

Participation, gender issues, demand driven, partnership

Local ownership and participation is the key to RWH and the single most important issue when seeking to establish sustainable RWH measures. A number of RWH initiatives have failed on that account with the initial investment quickly falling into disrepair and beneficiaries asking for yet another investment for rehabilitation and improvement. Experience in agriculture has shown that sustainable RWH technologies are those that are developed and managed by the local farmers themselves. These farmers must be involved in identifying technically feasible, sustainable and acceptable technologies. A prominent example is the macro catchment schemes for paddy production in Tanzania. There are often difficulties in adopting this stance of involving the communities effectively and apply demand responsiveness. One of the main prerequisites is formulating clear strategies and rules regarding cost recovery and levels of subsidies. In many case, these are abandoned as communities prove unable or unwilling to provide the cash or labour inputs. The political pressures of spending and timing of investments are sometimes at odds with the pace dictated by involving communities in a sustainable way. There are a number of projects that are realising the importance of putting the users in charge including the AfDB pilot project WAHIR as well as the Kenya Water and Sanitation Programme. A series of handbooks are also available that offer practical guidance and help in how to involve communities10. At the end, it is
10

Water for Rural Communities, 2006, Water from ponds, pans and dams, 2005, Low-cost methods of rainwater storage, 2002, Water from Sand Rivers, 2000.

11

important to realise that implementation of water supply using RWH require as much participatory preparation, awareness and training of communities as any other RWSS/urban WSS activity to ensure sustainability. Central to the involvement of communities is the inclusion of gender issues in the planning and implementation of projects. Women play a crucial rule in water provision as they are the ones fetching the water. They will often have the greatest interest and the most to gain from water supply projects their views and conditions must be included in the implementation activities. More on gender in section 3.1.

2.4

RWH as project activities

The approach to RWH should be broad based and integrated. The initiate interventions should be an established policy that is operationalising RWH in relation to legislation, administration and institutional setup. Likewise the RWH intervention will not work in isolation. In agriculture there must be integration with extension effort, credit and marketing facilities. In water supply, management of various water sources is essential and support for community and local business capacity building will be crucial for the sustainability. Below are listed examples of specific RWH related projects at different levels: National level o o o o o o o o o Mapping of experiences of RWH Mapping of potential of RWH Support to policy analysis and implementation strategy formulation related to RWH Inclusion of RWH in national policies in water, agriculture, land, livestock, rural development, urban development and environment Operationalisation and institutionalisation of policies, formulation of regulations and legislation Providing enabling environment for RWH water related businesses Developing frameworks for standard designs for RWH systems Development of RWH curriculum for technical educational institutions Support development of efficient monitoring systems on performance of RWH. Support networking knowledge base between stakeholders on RWH Demonstration projects and research on efficiency of RWH interventions Integrate RWH in ongoing projects Support for farmers developing RWH techniques Support for communities engaging in RWH activities Improving extension services/training on RWH Improving/ensuring marketing access of necessary RWH materials. Capacity building of local authorities on RWH

Regional level o Local level o o o o o o o

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3.
3.1

Topologies and check list

Proposed standard design procedures (AfDB) related to RWH,

Related to Water Supply Projects (WSP)

WSP involves the provision of potable water to urban and rural communities for domestic uses (including drinking, cooking, bathing/hygiene) and requires that the supply is good quality water and available all year round. Most African countries have adopted 20-35 l/c/d as basic water requirement (BWR), quality of water is recommended to be physically, chemically and bacteriological safe for human consumption. Most rainwater harvesting structures for drinking water supply will have some difficulties to meet these quantitative and sometimes qualitative demands, which basically are more suitable for conventional piped water supply, where supply rates and water treatment can be designed and controlled. Nonetheless, this study has shown that under various scenarios, rainwater harvesting solutions for rural water supply can be highly effective and sustainable. The following standard design procedures are proposed to be followed in the water supply sector: Institutional acceptance of rainwater harvesting as a viable water supply option in areas of limited water sources. It must be assured that rainwater harvesting as water supply option is mentioned and positively treated in national water policies and strategies. If RWH is not officially highlighted and supported, the techniques and use will continue to be restricted to NGOs and sporadic interventions by some bilateral donors. The basic water requirement (BWR) concept needs to be addressed and discussed initially at national level. Guidelines on how, when and when not BWR should be utilized should be developed. Guidelines and technical designs/handbook must be properly distributed - and in some cases developed to suit local conditions. This will specifically be relevant during the programming of potential water supply projects but the distribution of RWH handbooks etc. should also cover technical and social educational institutions to assure knowledge, acceptance and appreciate of RWH among future national implementers. Generally sufficient technical handbooks exist on most RWH techniques and approaches especially in Eastern Africa and India. Experiences and best practices should be collected from these RWH core areas and disseminated to other African countries with less tradition to use RWH techniques. It is also recommendable to develop an easy accessible CD with RWH designs, implementation guidelines and O&M procedures and lastly a framework for decisions on RWH. The overall water resource situation in a given area should be well documented. It is found highly needful in the preparatory stages of a project involving provision of water supply to have a detailed knowledge on hydrology (surface water) and hydrogeology (sub-surface water) within the project area. This will provide a much better support when deciding on various water supply techniques and options. The information should preferably be stored in databases with GIS application. RWH solutions and interventions should be treated as any other water supply project with consideration towards sustainability. All standard soft activities like community participation, demand responsiveness, user contribution, gender considerations, O& M workshops and training should also be applied to water supply projects involving RWH solutions. User contribution as labour to ensure demand and eventually O&M is particular useful for many RWH techniques as these can involve substantial amount of unskilled labour such as earth moving, fetching of local materials or scoping.

13

O&M of RWH techniques should exclusively be done by communities. This is highly relevant for any kind of RWH structures include dams (surface catchment systems and small scale dams). The obligation of users to ensure low soil erosion from catchment area and annual desilting must be included in the initially workshops/interactions with the beneficiary groups. RWH techniques should be recommended as water supply option the following scenarios: o o o o Regions with limited accessible surface water and groundwater resources Regions with water quality problems either a) polluted surface water bodies or b) problematic groundwater water chemistry Region with unreliable water supply caused by erratic rainfall pattern or dramatic fluctuations in groundwater levels. Regions sparsely populated (high capital cost investment per capita) What role do women have in water issues? Who controls water sources? Who is responsible for maintaining water supplies? Who is responsible for water use in the household? If the community manages the water supply, should women be involved? How should they be involved? In the committee or through womens groups? What resources do women control and what decision making power do they have in the community? Do women have time available for community activities? What other constraints are there to womens involvement in water management? What steps can be taken to reduce these constraints? Who should take these steps?

Regarding gender the following questions should be asked11: o o o o o o o o o o o

Related to Rural Development or Agricultural Projects (RDP or AP)

RDP generally has a very broad and wide approach and include numerous activities around health, food production/security (agriculture and livestock), water supply and sanitation, natural resource management and local capacity building. AP would normally be limited to food production/security (agriculture and livestock). Within RDP, rainwater harvesting techniques can be (and also are being) applied in several areas. As per water supply included in RDP, the same 9 WS recommendation as above can be applied. As for use of RWH to assure water for livestock or to augment water available for agricultural purpose, several techniques and methods are already in use and included in ongoing AfDB projects e.g. soil erosion prevention and water conservation RWH structures (for example stone contour bunds in Burkina Faso). This study has nevertheless shown that the RWH techniques for agricultural purposes presently still is very inhomogeneously utilized in Africa mainly caused by lack of knowledge locally and limited transfer of lessons learn and good practices between regions and countries. The following standard design procedures are proposed to be followed in the rural development and agricultural sector to mainstream RWH:
11

Water from ponds, pans and dams, p.25.

14

Assuring that sufficient of knowledge on water augmentation techniques (RWH techniques) are available within the project area. Linkage with local national research institutes etc. If RWH techniques are not regularly utilized in a given area, introduce design and include activities to expose key national implementers to other region in Africa or facilitate linkage with regional resource centres using practical and efficient RWH techniques. If RWH already is being utilised in a given project area, base the initial interventions on these methods and focus on reinforcement of traditional methods already in use. At the same time, conduct trials and pilot tests with other promising RWH techniques. If new RWH techniques seems to be appropriate to introduce, make sure that sufficient of information is available to ensure proper communication to local communities and finally make sure that use of any RWH technique is based on local choice and based on a demand responsive approaches. Include research and publication activities on various rainwater harvesting techniques to document effectiveness, efficiency and potential for expanding.

3.2

Decision tree on RWH

The choice of technology/approach is normally based on several parameters and hence it is often useful to utilize a formalized procedure (e.g. decision tree) to ensure well-substantiated solutions. In the annexes B and C are presented decision trees for potential use of RWH techniques for respectively water supply programmes and in rural development/agricultural programmes. Comments to water supply decision tree The DRWH option for water supply takes important elements as rainfall pattern, water stress, water quality and quantity into consideration when deciding on viable rainwater harvesting options. The scenarios are related to the reasons given in section 1.6. The socio-economic reasons mentioned in section 1.6 can be considered as a quantity problem in the decision tree. It will be highly valuable to have documented data on water availability and quality as well as data on the feasibility of various conventional water supply techniques (hand pumps or piped water supply schemes). Comments to rural development/agricultural decision three A wide variety of rain water harvesting systems are used in Africa to ensure growth of crops, fodder grasses and trees in areas where the amount or distribution of rainfall is limiting for plant production. The decision tree indicates which factors are important when selecting a RWH option. In reality many systems are applied under a wider variety of conditions and for a wider range of plants. In addition, many of the systems practiced locally are a combination of several elements. Thus, the actual selection should also rely strongly on local preference according to traditions and resources available. In general a higher cost/more labour can be accepted for crops than for fodder grasses and trees. Rehabilitation of grazing areas is equally important, but people may be reluctant to invest time and resources as rehabilitation of grazing land usually has build-in conflicts for example private/communal ownership and stable/ nomadic population, just to mention the most important.

3.3

Check list for necessary information, studies and data

The planning or programming go through several stage from programming, identification, preparation, feasibility study and detailed design before being put forward for appraisal. There exist already guidelines

15

for water supply and sanitation programmes/projects12 and the operation manual has been used as basis for agricultural and rural development programmes and projects13. The check list below is focussed on rainwater harvesting and should be utilized to ensure that rainwater harvesting techniques are properly treated and considered during the preparatory phases and, if found appropriate, activities that lead to introduction and construction of rainwater harvesting structures are included during implementation. The list below is organised according to AfDB programming phases.

RWH Check list during programme preparation for water supply projects
Phase Topic National policies and strategy Issues to address 1. Rainwater harvesting included or discussed in national water supply strategies? 2. Is there a need to ensure or create better institutional acceptance of RWH as a feasible option for RWS? 3. Existing laws and regulations regarding water rights 1. Country specific guidelines of BWR 2. Water quality requirement (WHO general guidelines or any country specific). 3. Norms for maximum distance to water points from households. Water quantity varies widely from one country to the other, but country level guidelines should be used for drinking. Most African countries have adopted 20-35 l/c/d as basic water requirement (BWR), quality of water is recommended to be physically, chemically and bacteriological safe for human consumption. A relative high BWR normally limit domestic RWH as a technical and economical feasible option. Maintaining water quality from larger RWH structures like earth dams, ponds etc. become problematic unless water point separation between human and livestock is included in design. Walking distance to water point should be less than 500 metres (nonetheless walking distance can vary considerable e.g. 4 km. has been adopted in Tanzania). Comprehensive data is being collected on RWSS aspects during assessment. Relevant data needed to assess possibilities for promoting RWH structures should include: 1. Water source availability and quality 2. Inventory of existing RWSS systems 3. Data and information management system (computerized and GIS based?). 4. Reliability of data and information for planning purposes 5. Need for further detailing of RWSS country level data to be assessed. 6. Investment costs for the different technological options 7. Finance and cost recovery of RWSS existing schemes 8. Management and operations costs. 1. Status and use of demand responsive approach (DRA) in previous WSS programmes. 2. Actual RWSS options available or presented to the rural population. 3. Sufficient information given to beneficiaries regarding cost implications for O&M for various RWSS options.

Basic Water Supply Requirement - access to drinking water in quantities and of a quality equal to their basic needs.

Programming Country Sector Paper

This assessment provides the basis for dialogue, action planning, country programme preparation and intervention (for both conventional programmes and RWSSI).

Technology options (previous and present)

12
13

Guidelines for planning and implementation of water supply and sanitation programmes and projects, AfDB/OPRD, January 2006. Operations Manual, AfDB/OCAR, June 1999.

16

4. Institutional aspects Identification. Discussion with local stakeholders on specific project proposals

Technology - Country level RWSS practices and usages

1.

2.1.1 framework

Institutional

2. 3. 1.

Preparation and Feasibility studies for specific projects

Demand Responsive Approach

1. Information, Education and Communication (IEC).

1. 2. Water source selection 3. 4. 1. Institutional aspects Detailed design 1. Technical aspects Social aspects 1.

RWH structures (domestic RWH, surface catchment systems or small dams) used in country. Legal framework, which defines rights and responsibilities of water users (e.g. right to harvest rainwater within a given catchment area) General practice regarding water management Realistic national minimum standard of services and estimate number of people falling below this. Compare this with BWR. RWH information to be included in base line information on existing water supply infrastructures, level of service, local skills and resources, potential water sources, and technical or physical constraints. Lessons learned on the most appropriate water supply technologies Ensure that all members of the communities (in particular the poorer sections and women) are consulted about technology options and their suitability. Are the institutions responsibilities (typically engineering divisions) for the delivery of WSS services capable to provide RWH techniques? Are there any institutional issues, which need to be resolved before the project can proceed e.g. capacity building or awareness on RWH? Identify local entity, community organizations, government, NGO and private sector, which promote RWH. Ensure that technology options include domestic RWH, surface catchment systems; small dams etc. are presented to the community on equal terms with other conventional technologies (boreholes, piped water etc.) during the demand responsive approach. DRA is an approach likely to ensure sustainability because communities would chose technologies and levels of service that they can afford and are willing to contribute to investment cost and able to operate. Proper information material given to communities on RWH options. Even specific campaigns might be necessary within a project to kick start the use of RWH. IEC processes are generally used to facilitate and enable communities to exercise collective action for the selection, implementation, maintenance and sustainability of RWSS systems. Reliable hydrological and hydro geological information Identification of regions or areas with existing water quality problems (potential areas for RWH intervention). Identification of regions or areas with scarce water resources (potential areas for RWH intervention). Actual water provision for rural poor communities. Final identification of organizations responsible for providing support to or managing rainwater harvesting water supply facilities. Detailed engineering design, specification, cost estimate, bill of quantities, and tender documents for rainwater harvesting structures. Training and support to beneficiaries adopting RWH facilities on operation and maintenance.

17

RWH Check list during programme preparation for Agricultural and Rural Development Projects
Phase Topic Issues to address 1. Goals and strategies for development of the agricultural sector including both the commercial sector and the small scale farming sector. 2. Is rainwater harvesting part of the agricultural strategy 3. Coherence between agricultural strategies and strategies for the water sector. 4. Relevant legal aspects with respect to land improvement: Present legislation regarding ownership of private land. Present legislation regarding ownership of communal land. Present legislation regarding ownership of trees on private/communal land. Is there a need to adjust present legislation to ensure farmers willingness to invest in improving the productivity of the land? Relevant data needed to assess possibilities for promoting RWH for agricultural purposes should include: 1. Is moisture stress presently limiting agricultural production? 2. Is irrigation generally not viable? 3. Present agricultural water use and source 4. Demand for additional agricultural water for example for subsistence sector and commercial sector 5. RWH systems presently used in the country. 6. Options for different RWH systems for the commercial and subsistence sectors as the only water source or as supplementary. 7. Investment costs for the different options of RWH and comparison with irrigation options. 8. Cost implications for operation and maintenance for various RWH and irrigation options. 9. Models for financing different RWH systems or irrigation 10. Cost of Management and operations of RWH and irrigation. 11. Sustainability of RWH and irrigation 1. Out reach of public extension service 2. Presence of NGOs which are active in agricultural extension 3. Knowledge and experience with RWH within the Extension service/active NGOs. 4. Status and use of demand responsive approach (DRA) in previous agricultural/rural development programmes. 1. Economic importance of agriculture compared to other activities. 1. Importance of agriculture for subsistence of the target group 2. Traditions related to RWH and irrigation. 1. Are the relevant institutions (typically agricultural division/extension service) capable of providing service covering RWH for agricultural purposes? 2. Are there any institutional issues, which need to be resolved before the project can proceed e.g. co-operation among different departments, awareness raising or capacity building regarding RWH? 3. Identify local entities for example community organizations, government bodies, NGOs and private organizations, which can promote RWH. 1. General suitability of conditions for rain water harvesting:

National policies, strategy and legislation

Programming Country Sector Paper

Assessment of possibilities for including rain water harvesting for agricultural purpose in future agricultural and rural development projects. The assessment should be included in the CSP.

Extension service

Economical Issues Social Issues Identification. Discussion with local stakeholders to develop specific project proposals

2.1.2 framework

Institutional

Technical issues

18

2. 1. 2.

Extension Issues

3.

1. 2. 3. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 1. 2. Environmental Issues 3. 4. Preparation and Feasibility studies for specific projects Institutional Aspects 1. 2. Technical Aspects and Economic 1. 2. 3. 4.

Economical issues

Regional rainfall pattern suitable for RWH for agricultural purpose (amount and distribution)? Are soils generally suitable for RWH for agricultural purpose e.g. medium deep to deep, clay and silt soils, Is topography suitable for RWH for agricultural purpose e.g. is it feasible to practice cultivation of crops, fodder or trees? Which RWH systems for agricultural purpose are used in the country? Lessons learned regarding implementation of RWH (and irrigation) in previous agricultural projects. Ensure that all members of the communities (in particular those who will be implementing and dealing with the techniques in the field) are consulted about technology options and their suitability. Ensure that cultivation options which include different RWH systems are presented to the community on equal terms with conventional technologies during the demand responsive approach (DRA). This approach is likely to ensure sustainability because communities would chose technologies that they can afford and are willing to contribute to in form of labour for construction and maintenance. Possibilities for irrigation from existing sources of groundwater and surface water, estimated cost and sustainability of irrigation. Possibilities for RWH, estimated cost and sustainability of RWH. Economic support required for extension, awareness raising and construction work involved in implementing RWH. Traditions for RWH for agricultural purposes. Traditions for irrigation (groundwater or surface water). Importance of agriculture for subsistence of the target group. Target gender for RWH projects. Potential involvement of communal grazing land as external catchments supplying runoff for cultivated areas, and potential related conflicts. Effect of RWH or irrigation on the economic possibilities in the area and the resulting (expected) effect on the local society. Effect of RWH on surrounding watershed in terms of soil conservation. Effect of RWH on surrounding watershed in terms of cultivation potential. Effect of RWH on surface water and subsequent effect on the regular uses of surface water. Effect on wildlife of using uncultivated areas as external catchments supplying runoff for cultivated areas. Identification of organizations to be responsible for providing support to implementing RWH schemes on private land Organisational setup made for groups responsible for RWH systems on communal land. Assessment of suitable RWH system(s) and sites. Design of suitable system. Budgeting. Discussion with beneficiaries on their possible input during construction and during the operation and maintenance of

Social issues

19

Social Aspects Environmental Aspects Institutional

2. 1. 1. 2.

Detailed design

Technical Aspects Social aspects

and

Economic

3. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

RWH systems. Investigate identified potential conflicts related to RWH and assess different solutions together with the community. Ensure that potential negative effects of RWH on water level/water availability down stream can be mitigated. Final selection of organizations to be responsible for providing support for implementing RWH. Formation of local group groups responsible for RWH systems on communal land. Capacity building of the two groups above Final selection of suitable RWH system(s) and sites Detailed design for suitable RWH system including specification for construction. Final budget Final decision/agreement on beneficiaries about their input. Training and support to beneficiaries adopting RWH facilities on operation and maintenance.

20

4.
4.1

RWH monitoring indicators and schedules

State of the art monitoring indicators

The MDG Goal 7 (Ensure environmental sustainability) addresses the global water and sanitation situation. It has as the water target (target 10) to reduce by half the proportion of people without sustainable access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation so the drinking water indicator is: "The proportion of population with sustainable access to an improved water source." The currently defined MDGs which are related to agricultural activities include goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger Performance indicators for water provision for human, livestock and agriculture made possible by implementation of rainwater harvesting structures: Water supply service improved (number of people served by various RWH structures) Walking distance to water point reduced (if domestic RWH is being introduced on a broad scale it will drastically reduce the working distance to zero and there ease the work load for women which in some countries will have to walk 4 km. (design norm in Tanzania)). Water quality and hygiene improved (related to indicators on health improvements to be collected during annual health household surveys). Incidence of water and sanitation related diseases reduced (number of water borne, washed, based or related diseases decreased). O&M performance data of the established RWH structures (water quality for drinking purposed being maintained, reservoir capacity maintained, caretakers being paid, small scale repairs like cracks, broken gutters etc. being attended). Rainwater harvesting included in national water policies and strategies as accepted standard designs and approaches. Water provision for agriculture improved (increased crop production and improved efficiency) Eroded farm land rehabilitated (ha) Volume of marketed cash crop (kg) Output per hectare (kg/ha) Amount of livestock (no.) Food security (no. of days with adequate food, composition meals etc. increases)

Performance indicators related to water resources and ecosystems Improved soil conservation through rainwater harvesting techniques (might be part of a larger watershed management effort). Surface water availability increased. Depletion of groundwater aquifers stopped Reduced soil erosion caused by torrential rain

21

5.

References
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2002, Nov.

Author/organisation
AfDB Group BP. 323 1002, Tunis Belvedre Tunisia. Email : afdb@afdb.org (same address for all AfDB references) AfDB/OCAR AfDB/OCAR AfDB/OCDE AfDB/OCDW

Title
Strategic Plan 2003 2007

Organisation
AfDB Group

Type
Strategy

July 2002 1999, June October 1996 February 2001 March 1998 February , 2004 2000, April August 2003 February 2005 Novemb er 2004 Novemb er 2002 June 2005 Septemb er 2003 2006, Jan June 2004

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AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group

Appraisal report Manual Appraisal report Appraisal report.

AfDB/OCDW AfDB/OCIN AfDB/OCOD AfDB/ONAR AfDB/ONAR AfDB/ONAR AfDB/ONAR

AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group

Rapport D'valuation Frame work Implementation Working paper 3 Appraisal report Appraisal report Appraisal report for

AfDB/ONIN AfDB/ONIN AfDB/OPRD

AfDB Group AfDB Group AfDB Group

Appraisal report Appraisal report Guidelines

Ali, A.A, Gichuki, P.G and Sheikh, O. ewasongironorth@kenyawe b.com Arnold Pacey & Adrian Cullis Centre for Science Environment www.cseindia.org and

ENNDA

Case Study

1996 April 2005

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Technology

Text book ISBN 0 946688 22 2 Report

Centre for Science and Environment

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Author/organisation
Centre for Science Environment www.cseindia.org Centre for Science Environment www.cseindia.org C.Pieck and and

Year
2003 1997 1985 1991

Title
A water Harvesting manual for urban areas. Case studies from Delhi and Mumbai Dying Wisdom. Rise, fall and potential of Indias traditional water harvesting systems Catchment and storage of rainwater A Manual for the Design and Construction of Water Harvesting Schemes for Plant Production Water Demand Management Sourcebook of Alternative Technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa

Organisation
Centre for Science and Environment Centre for Science and Environment TOOL Amsterdam. FAO Foundation,

Type
Manual A citizens report Technical paper Book and On-line publication www.fao.org/docrep/U 3160E/u3160e00.htm Text book ISBN 1843390787 Newsletter and Technical Publications

Critchley, W., Siegert, K., and contributions from: Chapman, C. David butler and Fayyaz Ali Memon UNEP. Division of Technology, Industry, and Economics 2-110 Ryokuchi Koen, Tsurumi-ku, Osaka 5380036, Japan www.unep.or.jp UNEP. Division of Technology, Industry, and Economics

2006 August 1998

IWA UNEP

March 2002

Erik Nissen-Petersen asalconsultants@yahoo.com Erik Nissen-Petersen et. al. asalconsultants@yahoo.com Erik Nissen-Petersen et. al. asalconsultants@yahoo.com Erik Nissen-Petersen et. al. asalconsultants@yahoo.com GHARP GHARP/KRA Secretariat Kenya Rainwater Association P.O. Box 10742-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Email: gharp@wananchi.com GHARP GHARP/KRA Secretariat GHARP GHARP/KRA Secretariat Government of Karnataka (GoK) Government of Kenya Itabari, J.K. and

2000 2005 2006 2006 January 16-18 2006

Rainwater Harvesting And Utilisation. An Environmentally Sound Approach for Sustainable Urban Water Management: An Introductory Guide for Decision-Makers Water from Sand Rivers Water from ponds, pans and dams Water from rock outcrops Water from dry riverbeds Proceedings of the Gharp pilot project. Results dissemination workshop

UNEP

Newsletter and Technical Publications

RELMA RELMA ASAL consultants ASAL consultants GHARP

Technical Handbook 23 ISBN 9966-896-53-8 Technical Handbook No. 32. ISBN 9966-896-67-8 Technical Handbook No. 4. Technical Handbook No. 5. GHARP publication no. 5

2003

2004 1999

October 2002 2003

Rainwater harvesting for improved food security. Promising technologies in the greater horn of Africa. Proceedings of the gharp USAID/ OFDA project; Planning workshop Guidelines for construction of artificial recharge structures for augmentation the drinking water sources The Water Act, 2002 Water Harvesting

GHARP

Text book

GHARP GoK

Gharp publication no. 4 Technical guidelines

Government of Kenya KARI

Legislation Technical Note Series

23

Author/organisation
Wamuongo, J.W. Kaptagat Rd, Loresho Nairobi Kenya, P.O.Box 57811, City Square, NAIROBI, 00200, Kenya. IWMI 127, Sunil Mawatha, Pelawatte, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka. Kenya Rainwater Association P.O. Box 10742-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher P.O. Box 2869 2601 CW Delft The Netherlands Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher P.O. Box 2869 2601 CW Delft The Netherlands Mati, B.M 127, Sunil Mawatha, Pelawatte, Battaramulla, Sri Lanka. Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ethiopia RELMA; World Agroforestry Centre Ministry of Water Maji House, Ngong Road, P.O. Box 49720, Nairobi Ministry of Water and Irrigation P. O. Box 49720, Nairobi Ministry of Water and Livestock Development MVUA GHARP/KRA Secretariat Kenya Rainwater Association P.O. Box 10742-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Email: gharp@wananchi.com MVUA GHARP/KRA Secretariat Kenya Rainwater Association P.O. Box 10742-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Email: gharp@wananchi.com MUVA GHARP/KRA Secretariat Kenya Rainwater Association P.O. Box 10742-00100, Nairobi, Kenya Email: gharp@wananchi.com Nega, H and Kimeu, P.M.

Year

Title
Technologies in Kenya, KARI Technical Note No. 16

Organisation

Type

2005

IWMI Research in Africa

IWMI

On-line database www.iwmi.cgiar.org Rainwater Organization profile

March 2006 1992

Organization profile capacity and achievements Water Harvesting. A guide for planners and project managers Water Harvesting African Countries. in Five

Kenya association IRC

Technical Paper series No. 30 Occasional Paper No. 14 WP 105 ISBN 92-9090-621-9 Technical No. 36 Policy Paper Handbook

1990

IRC

2006

2005

Overview of water and soil Nutrient Management under small holder Raid-fed Agriculture in East Africa Managing Land A practical guidebook for development agents in Ethiopia Sessional Paper no.1 of 1999 on National Policy of Water Resources Management and Development The Draft National Water Resources Management Strategy National Water Policy Promoting Rainwater harvesting and management technologies

IWMI

RELMA

April 1999 Decemb er 2004 July 2002 Decemb er 2004

Government of Kenya

Government of Kenya The United Republic of Tanzania MVUA

Strategy Paper Water policy Volume 9

Decemb er 2005

Promoting integrated Rainwater harvesting and management systems

MUVA

Volume 12

April 2005

Promoting Rainwater Harvesting and Management technologies

MUVA

Volume 10

2002

Low-cost methods of rainwater storage.

RELMA

Technical report No. 28 ISBN 9966-896-64-3

24

Author/organisation
Ngigi, Stephen N

Year
2003

Title
Rainwater harvesting for improved food security, Promising technologies in the Greater Horn of Africa A water harvesting manual Rainwater harvesting for natural resources management

Organisation
GHARP

Type
Text Book ISBN 9966-9767-1-X. Manual Technical handbook No. 22 ISBN 9966-896-52-X

Rahul Ranade et al www.cseindia.org RELMA RELMA in ICRAF ICRAF House, UN Avenue P.O. Box 30677, Nairobi 00100 KENYA Stockholm International Water Institute www.siwi.org University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV4 7AL, UK University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, University of Warwick Development Technology Unit, School of Engineering, World Argofostery Centre United Nations Avenue, Gigiri PO Box 30677-00100 GPO Nairobi Kenya World Bank 1818 H Street, NW Washington, DC 20433

2000 2000

CSE RELMA

Water Harvesting Upgrading of Rain-fed Agriculture 2001 April

for

SIWI

Report. Problem Analysis and Research Needs Inception report

R7833 Roof water harvesting for poorer households in the tropics

Development Technology Unit

2002 January 2002 January

Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: Existing practice Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: Constrains and problems Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: User trials Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: Its role in water policy Very low cost roof water harvesting in East Africa

Development Technology Unit Development Technology Unit

DFID KAR Report R1 DFID KAR Report R2

2003 June

Development Technology Unit

DFID KAR Report R3

2003 April

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DFID KAR Report R4

2000 Septemb er 1994 Novemb er 2005

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WP no 55

Preliminary study on rainwater harvesting in Mid-West Uganda

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Rainwater harvesting and the millennium development goals

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Booklet

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DRAFT Investment in Agricultural Water for Poverty Reduction and Economic

WB, AfDB, FAO, IFAD, IWMI

Synthesis Report

25

Author/organisation
USA

Year

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Growth in SSA

Organisation

Type

26

Annex A: Suggested ToR regarding RWH for CSP, Sector and Project Missions
Country Strategy Paper and Sector analysis Assess water resources management situation in general, i.e. identifying major gaps between supplies and demand by sector and geographically Assess water resources management policies and in particular analyse the role of given to rain water harvesting and establish whether there has been concrete goals set for the use of rain water harvesting Overall assessment of the use of RWH in particular in urban and rural water supply Review the main constraints in the use of RWH (institutionally, financially, economically, socially) including review of subsidies policies and implementation in relation to RWH interventions. Review the institutional anchoring of RWH issues. Assessment of agricultural development strategies inclusion of soil & water conservation and other RWH strategies. Assessment of land use policies ensuring security of holding of land to encourage investment in RWH structures. Assessment of EIA policies whether approval procedures are at odds with RWH development. Private sector development is the business environment favourable for small scale entrepreneurs Project Identification, Formulation Review local usage and knowledge of RWH Assess the necessary preconditions for embarking on RWH interventions in terms of community participation, local authority backup and knowledge, abilities of the private sector Consider potential and viability of incorporating RWH measures in projects including technical, social, economic and environmental aspects If deemed positive include concrete RWH activities in the LFA Appraisal Are RWH interventions included in the project? If, yes o o o Are they relevant and sound in relation to other options, i.e. is the viability established with a reasonable certainty? Are they appropriate in scope and are the technologies tested? Are the institutional issues covered sufficiently?, i.e. is there a clear anchorage in partner public institutions

Are the options acceptable to communities? If no, o o Have RWH options/techniques been considered? If they havent, why not. Is there reason to believe that RWH alternatives could be viable or useful? If RWH have been considered but still not included review the validity of the analyses.

Based on the above assess whether and in what form RWH activities should included in the project.

27

Annex B: Decision tree on RWH in domestic water supply

Use of rainwater harvesting techniques as domestic water supply

Climate considerations Dry Climates Arid or semi arid (< 750 mm) Tropical rainy climates Tropical wet and dry (> 750 mm) Level of water stress (renewable water per capita) Less than 2000 m3/capita Above 2000 m3/capita

Large scale DRWH intervention normally not recommendable as conventional water supply normally is easily applicable and the lack of serious water demand/shortage will hamper O&M of DRWH

Technical feasibility study/cost effectiveness of various WS options

Not known Known

Possible to make provision of reliable supply of sufficient potable quality water through conventional techniques (reasonable cost)

Yes

DRWH technical feasible but most likely not cost competitive

No

Quality problem

Water quality or quantity problems?

Quantity problem (e.g. low yield areas or wells running dry at the end of dry season)

Chemical water quality problems (F, As, NO3, Hardness, chloride etc)

Bacterial water quality problems

Both quality and quantity problems

Decision on either total supply solution (TSS) or fractional supply solution (FSS)

DRWH used solely for drinking purpose and designed accordingly. Other sources used for cooking, washing etc

DRWH used for drinking purposes and personal hygiene (bathing).

Campaigns on domestic disinfection methods exclusively used. DRWH not applied.

Limited annual rainfall variation

Distinct dry and rain seasons (1 to 2)

TSS. Water demand fully met by DRWH.

FSS. DRWH used for direct drinking

DRWH combined with campaigns on domestic disinfection methods to be applied (boiling, solar or chemical (chlorine) disinfection).

Other RWH technologies like rock catchment or small dams structures used to provide water for other domestic purposes.

Storage requirements (simple method) - Dry days multiplied by daily HH demand Total supply: 25-40 litres/person/day Fractional supply: Drinking only: 3-5 litres/person/day Cooking: 4-5 litres/person/day Washing dishes: 3-5 litres/person/day Personal hygiene: 5-10 litres/person/day Washing cloths: 10-15 litres/person/day Note: Supply requirements above only guiding and will be country specific according to local practices and preferences.

28

Annex C: Decision tree on RWH in agriculture

Arid/semi-arid moisture regime

Irrigation viable

Irrigation not viable

Consider if irrigation is cheaper and more sustainable than Soil with good moisture holding capacity Shallow sandy soils

RWH not recommenda

Slope <5% Medium slope 2-5% Gentle slope 0-2% Trees Crops Fodder Grasses Trees Crops Conservation (in-situ RWH) tillage

Slope >5 %

Fodder

Crops

Additional catchment area necessary

Sufficient rainfall within the field

Earth Bunds with external catchment Contour ridges with external catchment Contour stone bunds with external catchment

Tied contour ridges

Contour stone bunds

Planting Pits (Zai etc.) Katumani

Negarim

Fanya Juu

Semi-circular bunds Micro catchment

External catchment

29

Annex D: Summery data sheets

The following summery sheets on rainwater harvesting technical standard design/state of the state are based on available literature and studies. Furthermore the findings collected during the three field visits to Burkina Faso, Kenya and Tanzania has been incorporated wherever appropriate. The annex contains data sheets on the following RWH techniques 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. Domestic Rainwater Harvesting Rock and other surface catchment systems Sub-Surface Dam, small Dam and Sand Dam Earth Dams and Water Ponds/Pans Recharge Structures Conservation tillage Planting Pits Katumani Pit Semi-Circular Bunds Negarim Tied Contour ridges Contour Stone Bunds Fanya Juu Earth Bunds with external catchment Contour ridges with external catchment

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1. Domestic Rainwater Harvesting (DRWH)

Technical Description: Primary use: Domestic Water Supply Domestic rain water harvesting has been successfully utilized by people all over the world for many centuries. A domestic rainwater harvesting system consists of the following component: The catchment (roof), conveyance mechanism (guttering and down pipes), first flush device and storage tank (masonry, ferrocement or plastic) The roof catchment area determines the quantity and to some extent the quality of water available throughout the year. GI sheet roofs are by far the best due to their relative smoothness and the sterilising effect of the metal roof heating under the sun. Conveyance is by guttering and down pipe made normally of PVC or folded metal (GI) sheet. DRWH systems normally include first flush water diversion so that it does not enter the storage tank. The size the storage tank will depend on local rainfall spreading (number of dry days) and HH consumption rates. The storage tank can either 1) be above the ground with variation in size from 1 m3 to more than 40 m3 for households and up to 100 m3 or more for schools and hospitals or 2) below the ground. The benefit of above the ground tanks is that water can be extracted easily through a tap just above the base of the tank. Underground tanks offer a cheaper alternative due to its lower construction costs, but it is necessary to pump (lift) water and there is risk of contamination and sedimentation. Useful design guidelines (for drinking purpose only): Average minimum HH daily consumption QHH = 10 + (n x 5) litres (n = number of people in HH) Average sufficient HH daily consumption QHH = 30 + (n x 7) litres (n = number of people in HH) It is recommended to utilize minimum QHH in areas with only one rain season and a dry period between 6-8 months and sufficient QHH in areas with two or more rain seasons and a dry period between 3-5 months. Annual consumption QA = 365 x QHH Roof Area A = QA/( runoff coefficient x lowest annual rainfall within 5 years) Storage requirement V = Dry Days x QHH x Evaporation loss (if storage closed considered zero)
Type of roof GI Sheets Tile (glazed) Organic (Thatch) Runoff coefficient > 0,9 0,6 0,9 0,2 Notes Excellent quality water. Surface is smooth and high temperatures help to sterilise bacteria Good quality water from glazed tiles. Unglazed can harbour mould. Contamination can exist in tile joins Poor quality water (>200 FC/100ml) Little first flush effect High turbidity due to dissolved organic material which does not settle

31

Useful in: Domestic RWH systems are suitable for individual household use, and use in schools and other institutions where sufficient impermeable roof cover exists. It is generally accepted to be most useful in areas with rainfall between 200 and 1000 mm. It has been found useful particular in the following situation: Limited water resources for water supply e.g. no perennial water sources and groundwater potential are low (low yield) or problematic (quality unacceptable). Unreliable water supply - caused by seasonal variation in normal water availability. In areas with 2 rainy seasons with dry spells limited to 3-4 months. Remote and difficult to reach areas.

Limitation: In areas with rainfall below 200 mm, the roof area and storage requirement become as a rule too large and often financial unattractive (note that this highly depend on the fresh water scarcity situation and in severe cases DRWH can be a feasibility option even in areas with rainfall below 200 mm). In areas, where rainfall exceeds 1000 mm, water availability is normally sufficient to cater for conventional water supply techniques (rivers, lakes, sub-terrain aquifers etc.)

Generally sufficient information exists on DRWH to incorporate these systems into regular WSS project as occasional, intermittent, partial or full scale water supply. Geographical extent of use: Africa: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Mali, Mauritania, Benin, Burkina Faso, Botswana and Ethiopia. Effectiveness: The intensity and distribution of rainfall will determine the feasibility of a DRWH system. The intensity of rainfall will determine the catchment areas needed whereas the spreading with determine the storage requirement. The effectiveness of rain water collection systems depends on the type of roofing material used. For example, thatched grass gives lower yields than corrugated iron sheets.

Cost: Data and experiences from numerous references shows that the capital cost for a DRWH system with a above the ground tank in Africa would be approximately 50 USD/m3 storage inclusive gutters and other minor components. DRWH with underground tanks would be considerably cheaper (7-16 USD/m3). Example: QHH = 30+(6x7) litres (6 = people in HH) = 72 litres V = 120 days (dry days) x 72 litres = 8,64 m3 Approximately cost per HH = 432 USD Approximately cost per capita = 72 USD Note that this DRWH system will supply 12 litres per each individual (6) in the HH during the 120 dry days. A climate where rain falls regularly throughout the year will mean that the storage requirement is low and hence the system cost will be correspondingly low and vice versa. Drinking water supply through rainwater harvesting can often be twice or triple the cost (per capita) compared with regular water supplies (e.g. piped water supplies) but only if potable water is easily available. In addition, domestic rainwater harvesting suffers from strong diseconomies of scale in terms of supplying water needs. A small tank (1,000 litres) may supply 70% of a households water needs over the year (mainly in the wet season) whereas a tank 5 times the size will supply 90%, only a 20% improvement. Nonetheless, the technology can be highly cost-effective if gutters, down pipes, filters and storage tanks can be constructed using low cost locally available materials. Cost references from various DRWH projects with tanks above the ground is listed below. Country Benin Range for complete DRWH systems 33-50 $/m3 storage Reference UNEP, Division of Technology,

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Burkina Faso, Uganda and Kenya India, Rajasthan Uganda Kenya Operation and maintenance:

33-43 $/m3 storage 40-60 $/m3 storage 40-200 $/m3 storage 30-70 $(ferrocement tanks) 93 $ brink tanks 130 $ Plastic tanks

Industry, and Economics. August 1998 www.rainwater-toolkit.net University of Warwick, 1994 WP 45. Mati, 2006

Limited regular maintenance of gutters, and removal of leaves and other debris from the catchment surface, is required. Cleaning of the tanks is necessary before and after the first rains. All of these activities can be handled by the community. Water is drawn by bucket or taps fitted to the storage tank. Note that training and information on O&M for DRWH systems is often forgotten, which leads to deterioration and unsafe water quality. Water quality in stored RWH system has been investigated through several studies /IWA, 2006/ and these consider the growth of pathogenic bacteria in rainwater storage tanks for unlikely. Furthermore there is a die-off behaviour of micro-organisms during storage /DTU 2001/. In addition, successful practices applicable for rural setting can be used to ensure potable water e.g. solar disinfection using UV rays and heat (see www.sodis.ch), boiling (5-20 minutes), filtering (see right or treatment with chlorine.

After Pieck Enabling Environment: Domestic RW harvesting must be supported and included as a key option within regular water supply programmes as part of the demand responsive approach. Policies and legislation that recognize rainwater as the source of water. Including the DRWH in the institutional curriculum in design norms and educational institutions. Political acceptance and support Cultural acceptability: Rainwater has generally a high level of acceptance among communities in respect to taste and appearance. Household with DRWH systems even act as water vendors during periods of water shortages. No negative cultural factors have been observed. Disadvantages: Medium to high per capita cost Lack of reliability as a source of water periods of drought. Level of beneficiary involvement: Any intervention using DRWH must employ demand responsive approaches, user contribution towards capital cost either in kind or cash, community participation and ownership. Lastly beneficiaries should be properly trained in O&M.

Environment benefits: The capture of rainwater on roofs eases the pressure on existing water sources. In addition, it minimizes the erosion damages around the domestic building during torrential rain showers. Advantages: Water is provided at the point of consumption The recurring costs for operation and maintenance of the system include regular cleaning and leak prevention which can be easily undertaken by the

33

members of the household. If water is only available in deep groundwater aquifers/far away sources or in scenarios with water quality problems, the RWH solution will absolutely be price competitive.

Complicated and large storage tanks with dry periods above 8-10 months. Unsuitable to supply water above 20 litres per capita (most African countries have adopted 20-35 l/c/d as basic water requirement).

Information sources: Detail Design: www.eng.warwick.ac.uk/dtu/rwh Traditional rural technologies and urban www.unep.or.jp/ietc/Publications/Urban/UrbanEnv-2/index.asp Key references: David Butler and Fayyaz Ali Memon Nega, H and Kimeu, P.M.
University of Warwick University of Warwick University of Warwick University of Warwick University of Warwick

designs:

www.rainwaterharvesting.org

2006 2002
2001 April 2002 January 2002 January 2003 June 2003 April

Water Demand Management Low-cost methods of rainwater storage.

R7833 Roof water harvesting for poorer households in the tropics Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: Existing practice Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: Constrains and problems Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: User trials Very low cost domestic roof water harvesting in the humid tropics: Its role in water policy

IWA Relma
Development Technology Unit Development Technology Unit Development Technology Unit Development Technology Unit Development Technology Unit

Text book Technical report No. 28

Inception report DFID KAR Report R1 DFID KAR Report R2 DFID KAR Report R3 DFID KAR Report R4

Rahul Ranade Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher C.Pieck

2000 1992 1990 1985

A water harvesting manual Water Harvesting. A guide for planners and project managers Water Harvesting in Five African Countries. Catchment and storage of rainwater

CSE IRC IRC TWO

Manual Technical Paper series No. 30 Occasional Paper No. 14 Technical paper

34

2. Rock and other surface catchment systems

Primary use: Domestic Water Supply and Livestock

Technical Description: Rock catchments are simple systems for the collection of rainwater. The placement of these structures should take into account ease of access of the users and the geological structure of the site. The best sites are found on the lower reaches of bare rock (without fractures or cracks), where runoff losses to the soil, vegetation and structures is minimised. The retention of runoff is made in natural hollows or a valley which is made into reservoirs by constructing a simple masonry wall. The reservoir should have a relative high depth to surface ration to minimize evaporation. Stone and mortar gutters may be built across the rock face to channel the runoff into the dam. Storage may be provided in dams or open tanks. Other surfaces can also be used as catchment e.g. concrete, plastic sheets, treated soils etc. Useful design guidelines: Average minimum HH daily consumption QHH = 10 + (n x 5) litres (n = number of people in HH) Average sufficient HH daily consumption QHH = 30 + (n x 7) litres (n = number of people in HH) Annual consumption QA = 365 x QHH Runoff = Rock catchment Area x runoff coefficient (0,8) x lowest annual rainfall within 5 years (LAR) Required Catchment = (QHH x No. of HH + evaporation loss)/(runoff coefficient (0,8) x LAR) Storage volume requirement V = Dry Days x QHH x No. of HH Storage volume V = 1/6 x L x Y x (Xa + Xb) see below.

After Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher, 1992

35

Useful in: Rock catchment systems are suitable in areas with geological suitable rock outcrops (granite, basalt or any other hard rock). It has been found useful particular in the following situation: Limited water resources for water supply e.g. no perennial water sources and groundwater potential are low (low yield) or problematic (quality unacceptable). Unreliable water supply - caused by seasonal variation in normal water availability. Remote and difficult to reach areas.

Limitation: In areas with rainfall below 200 mm, the required catchment area/rock face can become too large and difficult to locate. In areas, where rainfall exceeds 1000 mm, water availability is normally sufficient to cater for conventional water supply techniques (rivers, lakes, subterrain aquifers etc.)

Information and experiences with technical institutions on rock catchment might not exist in a given area/country. Geographical extent of use: Africa: Kenya and Tanzania. Effectiveness: The intensity and spreading of the rainfall and the catchment area will determine the efficiency of the rock catchment system. Substantial amount of rainwater can be harvesting under the right geomorphologic situation but consideration on distances to user should also be taken into account. Operation and maintenance: The rock (catchment area) should be kept clean; reservoir should be emptied at the end of the dry session if possible to remove silt and algae. The avoid mosquito breeding (and spread of malaria), Tilapia fish could be introduced to the reservoir. A community management committee should be established and caretaker should be appointed to assure preventive maintenance (repair of cracks, damage of channelling structures and replacement of water taps) and lastly ensuring reasonable water consumption per HH (e.g. 40 litres per HH). Water quality in the stored tanks normally require no further treatment. To avoid contamination, a fence of thorn bush can be constructed around the catchment area or the reservoir edge. Nonetheless, if necessary, solar disinfection using UV rays and heat (see www.sodis.ch), boiling (5-20 minutes), filtering or treatment with chlorine can be applied. Level of beneficiary involvement: Intervention using rock catchment should employ demand responsive approaches, user contribution towards capital cost either in kind or cash, community participation and ownership. Lastly beneficiaries should be properly trained in O&M.

Cost: The cost will be highly depending upon local condition and availability of local material for construction. Nonetheless where technical feasible, this technique can compete with conventional WS techniques. Cost of RCS are listed below:
Location Kimanjo, Kenya Musul, Kenya East Africa Mati, 2006 Volume (m3) 100 450 Cost (USD) 5.000 (2002) 30.000 (2001) USD/m3 50 67

46-110 USD/m3

Enabling Environment: Rock Catchment Systems must be supported and included as a key option within regular water supply programmes as part of the demand responsive approach. Policies and legislation that recognize rainwater as the source of water. Political acceptance and support Including the RCS in the institutional curriculum in design norms and educational institutions.

Environment benefits: The capture of rainwater on bare rocks eases the pressure on existing water sources e.g. groundwater and reduces runoff/soil erosion.

Cultural acceptability: RCS generally has high level of acceptance in respect to taste and appearance. No negative cultural factors have been observed.

36

Advantages: Costs for operation and maintenance of the RCS include regular cleaning and leak prevention which can be easily undertaken by the communities. If water is only available in deep groundwater aquifers/far away sources or in scenarios with water quality problems, the RCS solution will absolutely be price competitive.

Disadvantages: Lack of reliability as a source of water periods of drought. Unsuitable to supply water above 20 litres per capita (most African countries have adopted 20-35 l/c/d as basic water requirement).

Information sources: Detail Design: ASAL Consultants Ltd, Kenya: asalconsultants@yahoo.com Key references: E.N.Petersen et. Al. Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher 2006 1992 1990 Water from rock outcrops Water Harvesting. A guide for planners and project managers Water Harvesting in Five African Countries. ASAL consultants IRC IRC Technical Handbook No. 4. Technical Paper series No. 30 Occasional Paper No. 14

37

3. Sub-surface Dams, Small Dams, and Sand Dams

Sub surface dam Technical Description: Primary use: Domestic Water Supply

A typical sand dam

A sub-surface dam consists of a vertical, impermeable barrier through a cross section of a sand- filled, seasonal river bed. A ditch is dug at right angles across the river and into each bank, preferably where a rock dyke protrudes. This provides a solid, impermeable base onto which a simple masonry wall can be built within the trench. In some situations, the wall is raised gradually as sand from upstream accumulates behind the structure, forming a sand dam. Water is taken out through a shallow well in the sand bed, or through a filter box, into a gravity pipe which runs through the dam to the point of use downstream. For water supply augmentation and soil conservation purposes, it is better to build a series of small dams along the same stream, rather than building one large dam. A sequence of small dams increases alluvial deposition and improves infiltration more than a single large dam. Useful design guidelines (for drinking purpose only): Average minimum HH daily consumption QHH = 10 + (n x 5) litres (n = number of people in HH) Average sufficient HH daily consumption QHH = 30 + (n x 7) litres (n = number of people in HH) It is recommended to utilize minimum QHH in areas with only one rain season and a dry period between 6-8 months and sufficient QHH in areas with two or more rain seasons and a dry period between 3-5 months. Annual consumption QA = 365 x QHH Storage volume Vsanddam = Height of dam/2 x (100 x Height of dam/slop of river (%)) x river width x porosity (0,3) Useful in: Limited water resources for water supply e.g. no perennial water sources and groundwater potential are low (low yield) or problematic (quality unacceptable). It is most suitable for use in sandy, seasonal rivers prone to sedimentation. Unreliable water supply - caused by seasonal variation in normal water availability. Remote and difficult to reach areas. Limitation: Limited to areas with seasonal riverbeds with floods event during the wet season Rivers with less coarse sand will not have sufficient water storage capacity. River slope between 1 and 5 %. River bed should be solid rock without fractures Construction material should be local available.

This technique seems to be restricted to Eastern Africa. Geographical extent of use: Africa: Kenya and Tanzania Effectiveness: This technology is an effective means of augmenting drinking water supplies, providing additional arable lands, and protecting watercourses from sedimentation.

38

Cost (examples from Kenya):

Type of dam Subsurface soil dam Subsurface masonry dam Sand dam rubble masonry Water volume 1885 m3 2411 m3 6717 m3 900 m3 Cost/year 9.000 Ksh/1997 75.700 Ksh/1999 225.300 Ksh/1996 241.000 Ksh/2006

Operation and maintenance: Once constructed,

recurring costs are negligible. The structures may be assumed to last for 30 years.

Water quality can be ensured or improved by introducing solar disinfection methods, encourage boiling (5-20 minutes) or treatment with chlorine.

Enabling Environment: Small dam RWH techniques must be supported and included as key water supply options as part of the demand responsive approach. Policies and legislation that recognize reservoirs created by small dams as the source of water. Including small dam techniques in the institutional curriculum in design norms and educational institutions. Political acceptance and support

Level of beneficiary involvement: The level of involvement depends on the extent of the project. Generally, small dam design and construction is within the capacity of local agencies. Often, governmental agencies and extension services are involved in the initial production of standardised designs for dissemination to communities. Demand responsive approaches, user contribution towards capital cost either in kind or cash and community participation and ownership must be adapted. Lastly beneficiaries should be properly trained in O&M. Cultural acceptability: No negative cultural factors have been observed.

Environment benefits: Reduction of erosion, management of silt deposition within river basins, and increased moisture infiltration within the soil profile and into the groundwater are environmental benefits associated with sub-surface dams. Advantages: Evaporation of stored water decreases. Siltation does not create a problem as topsoil particles and decries are cleared during flash floods. Contamination of water by insects, birds and animals cannot take place as water is not exposed. Downstream users not deprived as water only fills up behind the created dam in the sand reservoirs with floods when water is plentiful anyway.

Disadvantages: Limited to supplying drinking water only Unsuitable to supply water above 20 litres per capita (most African countries have adopted 2035 l/c/d as basic water requirement).

Information sources: Detail Design: ASAL Consultants Ltd, Kenya: asalconsultants@yahoo.com Key references: Erik Nissen-Petersen et. Al. Erik Nissen-Petersen Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher 2006 2000 1992 1990 Water from dry riverbeds Water from Sand Rivers Water Harvesting. A guide for planners and project managers Water Harvesting in Five African Countries. ASAL consultants Relma IRC IRC Technical Handbook No. 5. Technical Handbook 23 Technical Paper series No. 30 Occasional Paper No. 14

39

4. Earth dams and water ponds/pans

Still water at the end of the dry period Technical Description:

Goats taken to reservoir

Highly unsafe water point

Primary use: Domestic Water Supply, Livestock and some small scale irrigation Earth dams are semi-circular or curved banks of earth, 3-4 meters high and 100 meters in length. Water ponds or pans are naturally occurring or excavated water storage structures (called charcos in Tanzania) without a constructed wall/dam. The reservoir should have a high depth to surface ratio to store maximum water behind the smallest possible dam. The best catchment area would be a relatively steep and rocky landscape with no erosion and the dam should be placed in gentle sloping land in a wide shallow channel or broad depression. It is preferred that these can be built by using manual labour and animal tracking. An outtake pipe system should be constructed to abstract drinking water from reservoir Useful design guidelines (for drinking purpose only): Average minimum HH daily consumption QHH = 10 + (n x 5) litres (n = number of people in HH) Average sufficient HH daily consumption QHH = 30 + (n x 7) litres (n = number of people in HH) Annual consumption QA = 365 x QHH Livestock consumption: cattle and camels 15 l/d, sheep and goats 3,5 l/d Runoff coefficients used in catchment area: 0,25 for steep terrain with many rocky outcrops, 0,10 for gentle sloping hills mainly covered with soil. Storage volume Vearthdam = x W (width of dam) x D (maximum depth of reservoir) Useful in: In arid and semi regions with limited water resources for water supply e.g. no perennial water sources and groundwater potential are low (low yield) or problematic (quality unacceptable). Area with pastoral existence/pastoral herders Remote and difficult to reach areas. Geographical extent of use: Africa: Kenya and Tanzania Limitation: Areas with substantial soil erosion High probability of torrential rains/floods Construction material not local available.

Effectiveness: This technology is an effective and simple method to augment drinking water supplies to humans and livestock. The long term effectiveness (sustainability) depends on maintenance done/assured by the communities (protecting reservoir from sedimentation).

40

Cost: Highly depending upon user contribution and size. Data from AfDB Monduli project in Tanzania (earth dams constructed using of mechanical earth moving equipment and limited user labour contribution), provide average cost of 635 USD/HH and 10-16USD/m3 based on preliminary estimates from 10 earth dam water supply schemes covering more than 5000 HH. Data from 1990 (IRC) indicate a much lower cost of around 2 USD/m3

Operation and maintenance: Erosion control in catchment area must be assured, silt traps must be annual emptied, cracks in the embankment should immediately be repaired and fence preventing primarily live stock to enter should be maintained. It is crucial that the maintenance of desiltation is given to the beneficiaries. The annual desiltation at the end of each dry season can be handled easily by communities, but requires mechanical earth moving equipment if this is left unattended for years. Water quality can be a severe problem, especially because livestock very often share the same water point as humans. So proper information and campaigning of water treatment methods like solar disinfection, boiling (5-20 minutes) or chlorine must be implemented. Level of beneficiary involvement: The level of involvement depends on the extent of the project. Generally, earth dam design and construction is within the capacity of beneficiaries with assistance from governmental agencies and extension services. Demand responsive approaches, user contribution in kind/labour and community participation and ownership must be adapted to assure the maintenance and sustainability of earth dams. Beneficiaries should be properly trained in O&M especially annual desiltation. Cultural acceptability: No negative cultural factors have been observed.

Enabling Environment: Earth dam techniques supported and included as key water supply options as part of the demand responsive approach. Policies and legislation that recognize reservoirs created by earth dams as the source of water. Including earth dam techniques in the institutional curriculum in design norms and educational institutions. Political acceptance and support

Environment benefits: Reduction of erosion, management of silt deposition within river basins, and increased moisture infiltration within the soil profile and into the groundwater are environmental benefits associated with earth dams. Advantages: Simple and well known technique/design Multi purpose use drinking, livestock, nurseries and even mud brick production High potential for demand responsive approaches and user contribution (manual labour) and thereby assuring better O&M.

Disadvantages: The lifetime and reservoir capacity has tendency to decrease due to siltation unless O&M properly done annual by communities. Human and livestock often end up drinking from same water point. Difficult to avoid wildlife from entering water reservoirs. Risk of increased cases of malaria (can be reduced by introducing Tilapia fish, that eat the mosquito larvae)

Information sources: Detail Design: RELMA. www.relma.org or ASAL Consultants Ltd, Kenya: asalconsultants@yahoo.com Key references: Erik Nissen-Petersen et. al. Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher 1990 2005 1992 Water from ponds, pans and dams Water Harvesting. A guide for planners/project managers Water Harvesting in Five African Countries. Relma IRC IRC Technical Handbook No. 32. Technical Paper series No. 30 Occasional Paper No. 14

41

5. Recharge Structure
Primary use: Domestic Water Supply and in some cases livestock

Recharge pond (UNEP, 1998)

Recharge well (Utthan Project, Gujarat, India)

Household recharge structure (CSE, 2003)

42

Technical Description: Recharge structures is the use of infiltration basins or injection/infiltration wells to recharge groundwater resources. The concept is to collect rainwater typically from roofs, rock surfaces or established catchment areas and lead it towards the preferable well via a filtering arrangement. The filtering arrangement or the storage time in the aquifer normally is sufficient to assure water of drinking quality at the point of abstraction (borehole or open well). Widely used now in urban settings but also used in rural areas throughout the world as a traditional approach as well as institutionally well accepted additional water supply structures /See key references below, GoK, 1999/. Useful in: This practice is being increasingly utilized today as a consequence of problems with either depleted wells/groundwater aquifers or water quality (fluoride, arsenic or chloride). It has been found useful particular in the following situation: Limited groundwater resources for water supply e.g. potential are low (low yield) and groundwater levels are low at the end of dry season. Problematic groundwater quality. Remote and difficult to reach areas. Effectiveness: This technology is effective in arid regions with limited water sources. Since storage capacity in practice is unlimited, the more catchment area created the more efficiency. Water reclaimed in this fashion may be used as an alternate source of drinking water. Operation and maintenance: Limited regular maintenance of catchment areas and removal of leaves and other debris from the catchment surface, is required. Limitation: Presence of clay lenses covering parts of an aquifer can be a problem as they can prevent the infiltrated water from reaching the aquifer Groundwater recharge using infiltration basins in areas with high evaporation rates is not likely to be effective

Geographical extent of use: Africa: Botswana, Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria

Cost: Highly depending on available catchment area possibilities (roofs, smooth surfaces, bare rock etc.) and existing infiltration facilities (e.g. open well already existing) Enabling Environment: Recharge structure must be supported and included as part of a water supply package within regular water supply programmes as part of the demand responsive approach. Policies and legislation that recognize the need to apply recharging structure to water supplies. Including design of recharging structures in the institutional curriculum in design norms and educational institutions. Political acceptance and support

Level of beneficiary involvement: Construction of recharge basins can be undertaken by local personnel with experience in well digging. Government assistance may be required to identify appropriate recharge sites. Demand responsive approaches, user contribution towards capital cost either in kind or cash, community participation and ownership must be employed.

Environment benefits: The capture of rainwater/runoff and diversion to groundwater aquifers effectively replenish pressurized aquifers. In addition, it minimizes the erosion damages around the domestic building during torrential rain showers. Advantages: Storage capacity unlimited O&M is relatively easy and can be undertaken by

Cultural acceptability: The technique is culturally acceptable.

Disadvantages: The water from a recharged aquifer cannot be used without a system of abstraction.

43

the members of the household. Groundwater recharge, especially using infiltration wells, conserves water through reduced evaporation. Clean drinking water may be recovered from wells in the vicinity of the recharge field without using complicated treatment systems.

Risk of polluting the aquifer with the recharged water. Stored rainwater in aquifers might flow away and disappear from abstraction well.

Information sources: Centre for Science and Environment. www.rainwaterharvesting.org Key references: Centre for Science and Environment Centre for Science and Environment Government of Karnataka (GoK) DTIE April 2005 2003 Making water everybodys business. Practice and policy of water harvesting A water Harvesting manual for urban areas. Case studies from Delhi and Mumbai Guidelines for construction of artificial recharge structures for augmentation the drinking water sources Sourcebook of Alternative Technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa Centre for Science and Environment Centre for Science and Environment GoK Report Manual

1999 August 1998

Technical guidelines Newsletter and Technical Publications

UNEP

44

6. Conservation Tillage
In-situ rainwater harvesting

Technical Description: Conservation tillage is a term used to describe any tillage system that conserves water and soil while saving labour and traction need. Conservation tillage aims at improving infiltration and water holding capacity through breaking up crust and pan formation but with minimum of soil disturbance and almost no inversion in order to minimise erosion. In addition the infiltration capacity and the water holding capacity are increased by an increased level of the soil organic matter and a largely undisturbed population of soil micro organisms which is important for the soil structure and its stability. Conservation tillage applies four main principles: 1) zero or minimum soil turning, 2) permanent soil cover, 3) stubble mulch tillage, and 4) crop selection and rotations. An important aspect of conservation tillage practice involves ripping the land with tined implements or sub-soiling the land immediately after crops are harvested, to break the plough pans. Suitable equipment includes animal-drawn sub-soilers, rippers, ridgers, planters, and weeders. The following systems of conservation tillage has been developed for mechanised farming: Stubble mulch tillage involves chopping crop residues and spreading them on the surface or incorporating them during tillage. Cultivation is usually done with a tined implement such as a such as a chisel plough. Herbicides are often used to control weeds. Equipment used for planting must have special furrow openers to avoid clogging with trash. Stubble mulch tillage reduces labour and farm-power requirements, and, as such, it is cost-effective. The system results in improved and stable soil structure, with reduced direct impact of raindrops on bare soil, thus minimizing soil erosion. Moisture retention capacity of the soil is also enhanced by the residues; hence crop survival is better during dry spells or drought. Strip Tillage involves cultivating strips of only about 20 cm wide where the crop is planted (for example maize of cotton). Weeds are controlled with herbicides. The untilled land between the cultivated strips generates runoff which infiltrate in the tilled land. Spot tillage refers to digging holes for seeds without cultivating the rest of the land. This is used with slash and burn agriculture. Zero tillage or No-till: is a system with no primary or secondary tillage. Weeds are controlled entirely by herbicides such as Roundup and seeds are planted in a narrow slot with minimal soil disturbance. No-till has not been particularly successful in Kenya because of the need to loosen the soil to create a good seedbed and promote infiltration. However it is been strongly promoted in Zimbabwe to reduce erosion and improve the organic matter status of the soil The small-scale farmer using a jembe is practising a type of minimum tillage. The soil is not inverted to the same

45

extent with a jembe as with a mouldboard plough and residues are not so easily buried. Contour farming is an important form of conservation tillage on slopes. All farm husbandry practices are done along the contour so as to form cross-slope barrier to the flow of water. Where this is not enough it is complemented with ridges which are sometimes tied to create a high degree of surface roughness to enhance the infiltration of water into the soil. The contour ridges are maintained for several seasons so that the work of construction is minimised. Preparation of a seedbed along the top of the ridges is carried out at the time of planting and in one operation. Residues are concentrated in the furrows where the water collects and most infiltration occurs. Primary use: Used for all kinds of row crops. Most of the here mentioned types are for mainly for mechanisation except contour farming and spot tillage which can be practiced with hand tools. Useful in: Areas where infiltration is more limiting than total amount of rainfall. Suitable on almost all soil types. Can be used and all types of slopes, from flat to steep. On flat land conservation tillage is used for RWH, on steeper slopes the main purpose is soil conservation. Geographical extent of use: Stubble mulch tillage has been used as a water conservation technique in Kenya, especially in the mechanized large-scale farms growing wheat and barley as found in Kitale and Timau in Kenya. In the dry areas of East Africa, zero tillage has not worked well due to poor infiltration (as soils are easily self-sealing) and costs of herbicides being prohibitive. In Kenya, no-till systems used to be practiced mostly under large-scale mechanized wheat/barley systems, but smallholder farmers have recently started experimenting with this system with good results, as in Machakos, Laikipia and Nyando districts. Strip tillage has successfully been practiced in Tanzania. Minimum tillage by ploughing with a magoye ripper, which is adapted from Zambia has become popular among smallholder farmers in Kenya and Tanzania. Manual subsoilers have also been developed by innovative farmers. Cost: The cost of labour is less than for conventional tillage, but cost of ox drawn equipment and herbicides has to be included. Limitation: Oxen drawn equipment is mostly required. Weeds are best controlled with herbicides.

Effectiveness: In years with rainfall below normal it is observed that fields where conservation tillage has been practiced has a good yield compared to no yield with conventional tillage. In Kenya, increased yields have been reported for stubble mulching, especially in marginal areas In Arusha Region, Tanzania, where annual rainfall ranges from 400 mm-1,200 mm, the magoye ripper was found to reduce labour and enhance crop yields in the dry years.

Operation and maintenance: Breaking of plough pan every year after harvest. Regular application of herbicides.

Enabling Environment: Information and demonstration. Development of locally appropriate tool. Support to buying of tools and herbicides. Environment benefits: Build-up of organic matter in the soil as crop residues are left as mulch or incorporated in the soil and because the soil micro organisms are largely left undisturbed.

Level of beneficiary involvement: Beneficiaries are carrying out the work them selves Cultural acceptability: Generally accepted especially because less labour is used than for regular tillage. However, for small scale farmers the cost of tools, herbicides and an ox limits the adoption. In dry areas where all organic matter is used as fuel or

46

fodder it is difficult to convince the farmers to leave plant residues on the soil surface. Advantages: Less labour than conventional tillage Improved infiltration, reduced runoff Improved soil organic matter content Reduced soil erosion Disadvantages: Key references: Ngigi, Stephen N. 2003 Rainwater harvesting for improved food security, Promising technologies in the Greater Horn of Africa Overview of Water and Soil Nutrient Management under Smallholder Rainfed Agriculture in East Africa Rainwater harvesting technologies for agricultural production: A case for Dodoma, Tanzania. GHARP Book Conservation tillage allows more weeds to grow so more labour is needed for weeding. In conservation tillage weeds are best controlled with herbicides which may be to expensive for small scale farmers Funds are required for tools, herbicides and an ox Proper handling of herbicides requires training

Mati, Bancy Mbura

2006

IWMI (International Water Management Institute) Sokoine University of Agriculture.Department of Agricultural Engineering and Land Planning. PO Box 3003, Morogoro, Tanzania. Soil and water conservation branch, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Development and Marketing, Kenya RELMA

Working Paper 105

Hatibu, N. and H. Mahoo

2004

Working paper

Thomas, D.B. (ed)

1997

Soil and water conservation manual for Kenya Managing Land A practical guidebook for development agents in Ethiopia

Manual

Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ethiopia RELMA; World Agroforestry Centre

2005

Technical No. 36

Handbook

47

7. Planting Pits (Zai, Zay, Chololo, Matengo, Ngoro)

Micro Catchment Technique

Planting pits, or Zai (Lee and Visscher, 1990). Technical Description:

Zai, Burkina Faso

The planting pit system is a Micro catchment technique. Planting pits are made on land which low permeability to allow for runoff collection. Planting pits are holes dug to catch runoff and allow time for infiltration and they are usually fertilised with organic matter in the form of plant debris or compost. Primary use: Annual and perennial crops for example sorghum, maize, millet, cowpeas, sweet potatoes, groundnuts and bananas. Useful design guidelines: The Zai form are dug with approximately 80 cm apart to a depth of 5 to 15 cm, with a diameter of between 15 and 50 cm, but the planting pits also exists in much greater size and with different spacing. Useful in: The planting pits are suitable for semi-arid area to enable crops to survive dry spells. They are used on a wide variety soil types but most suitable on silt and clay soils where runoff can be generated due to limited permeability. The technique works on sloping land from 1-15%. Geographical extent of use: The planting pit technique is used in Mali, in Burkina Faso (locally it is called Tassa) and in Tanzania where it is called Chololo, Matengo or Ngoro. It can be used in all Sahelian countries. Tumbukiza is a special variation recently introduced in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. The pits are used for fodder grass, are as deep as 1,2 m and watered 20 l per pit per day in the dry season to support dairy cows (IWMI research). Limitation: The planting pits will not maintain runoff water in sandy soils.

Effectiveness: It has been noticed that the earth around the plants remains damp for a considerable length of time after each rainfall compared to the surrounding catchment. In Tanzania the yield of millet has been observed increasing from 124 kg/ha to 360 kg/ha. Planting pits are also use to vegetate abandoned or unused ground. Thus, crop yields resulting from this practise bring a benefit of 100%. Yields range between 0.7 and 1.0 t/ha for sorghum. Operation and maintenance: The pits are easy to maintain. However, it is important to make sure that the holes are correctly dug and that the debris is evenly placed in each hole. The holes must be checked each year before planting to make sure that they are in good conditions, and they must be filled with organic matter as required. .

Cost: The cost of the planting pits is corresponding to the time it takes to dig the holes and fill them with organic matter. Depending on the hardness of the ground, the input required is between 30 and 70 person days per hectare for the digging of the holes and 20 person days per hectare for fertilisation with manure and composting. Taking into account the wear and tear

48

cost of materials used by the farmers, the cost may be estimated at approximately $8/ha. (1998) and the cost of the labour can be estimated to $ 1,5/day.

During a storm where a lot of water will collect the debris placed in the pits usually soaks up the excess water, but after a heavy storm the pits have to be checked and repaired if required.

Enabling Environment: Information campaigns and demonstration is usually sufficient as the technique is easily understood. If there is no local tradition for using organic matter to fertilise the soil, and the available organic matter already has a purpose as fodder or fuel, it may require more through demonstrations of the obtainable yield with and without organic matter in the pits

Level of beneficiary involvement: Planting pits is a very simple and flexible technique which needs no other equipment than what is usually already available and they can be fine tuned to many different localities. Information and awareness campaigns are necessary and the experience shows that after a few pilot projects the technique is accepted and spreads quickly due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Cultural acceptability: The different kinds of planting pits have met no reservations in the countries where it has been introduced. Thus, it is apparently not contradicting with any socio-cultural practices. Disadvantages: The only major disadvantage of planting pits is the labour requirements for construction as well as the maintenance. The farmer has to watch over the state of the holes, deepen them and refill them with manure before each wet season and check them after heavy rainfall. Planting pits may be subject to water logging in very wet years.

Environment benefits: Planting pits also limit the volume of runoff and, hence, the extent of soil erosion. With time the growing plants will also rebuild a more porous soil structure which will further limit runoff and erosion. Planting pits do probably improve groundwater recharge. Advantages: Planting pits increase infiltration into the ground. After several years of employing this practise, the soils may reacquire its porosity and permeability. Thus there is a dual purpose of cultivation and regeneration of the soil. The design is flexible and can be adapted to the local conditions. The technique is easily accepted in most places.

Information sources:
http://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/africa/west_africa/projects/AdoptionTechnology/RangelandConservation/39TumbukizaPits.htm

Key references: Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa Rainwater harvesting for improved food security, Promising technologies in the Greater Horn of Africa IWMI Research in Africa Water Harvesting in Five African Countries.

DTIE

1998

UNEP

Newsletter and technical publications Book On-line database Occasional Paper No. 14

Ngigi, Stephen N IWMI Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher

2003 2005 1990

GHARP IWMI IRC

49

8. Katumani Pitting
Micro Catchment Technique

Stylised representation of Katumani pits in plan (a and b) and cross sectional views (c). Technical Description: This locally adapted manual pitting system is originally developed at the Kenyan Agricultural Research Institute (KARl) at Katumani, in the Machakos District of Kenya, and resembles the small zai-pit. The technique is also used in the Njombe District of southern Tanzania, where the pits are made bigger and deeper (at least 0.6 m deep), and a 20litre volume of manure is added. The pits are constructed as small, interlocking mini-catchments using a pitting and ridging technique coupled with reseeding with native grasses and legumes. Pitting should start at the top of an eroded slope below a cut-off drain which will intercept runoff from above. Pits should be dug to form interlocking catchments, each about 2 m2 in area, varying in shape with the micro topography. Pitting can be extended down the slope as convenient and necessary. Final embankments should be about 30 cm high, around crescent-shaped trenches, 15 cm deep and 20 cm wide. Cow peas, or other ground cover crop, should be sown on the ridges, and cattle excluded, during the first growing season to allow vegetation cover to establish and soil to compact. Primary use: Re-vegetation of degraded grazing land and cultivating of crops for example bananas in area with rainfall as low as 300 mm/year and maize in wetter areas. Useful in: This technology is appropriate for the rehabilitation of grazing lands or cultivating of crops over a wide moisture regime. Geographical extent of use: Different forms of the system are widely adopted in some parts of Kenya and Uganda. Some progressive farmers in Tanzania and in the semi-arid Southern Province of Zambia have also adopted the system. Limitation: Labour requirements and protection from livestock

Effectiveness: Cow peas, grown during the first season, have been reported to yield 750 to 900 kg /ha. Notwithstanding, weeds and grasses tend to dominate in the second season, unless additional management practices are adopted. Pasture yields of 3 to 4 t/ha/season are achievable, with a legume content up to 50%. Total dry matter production on Katumani-treated land increased by a factor of 5 to 10 compared to untreated land Maize has yielded more than double of that on

50

conventional tilled land in an area with an annual rainfall close to 1,000 mm where 15-20 seeds of maize were planted per pit. Cost: Costs are primarily related to labour costs of about $100 to $150/ha. To establish a ground cover crop, fertilisers may be needed, especially where severe loss of topsoil has occurred. Operation and maintenance: There are limited operation and maintenance requirements. In particular, over-grazing should be avoided so as not to cause a return to a previously denuded condition. Cut-off drains also are to be maintained. Level of beneficiary involvement: Local community inputs or hired labour is generally used to construct the pits and cut-off trench. If hired labour is used and no local ownership is achieved maintenance will be a problem. Cultural acceptability: No adverse cultural problems have been recorded, but spreading has been limited probably due to the labour requirement. Disadvantages: The technology is labour-intensive.

Enabling Environment: Motivation, demonstration, assistance for designing and maybe initial support for example as food/cash for work.

Environment benefits: Decreased runoff and erosion, rehabilitation of degraded lands, and stabilisation of soils. Advantages:

Surface runoff is reduced with the result that soil moisture content is greatly increased. Improved production of fodder and some suitable crops

Information sources: Key references: DTIE Stockholm Water Institute International 1998 Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa Water Harvesting for Upgrading of Rain fed Agriculture Overview of Water and Soil Nutrient Management under Smallholder Rain-fed Agriculture in East Africa UNEP Newsletter and technical publications Problem Analysis Research Needs and

SIWI IWMI (International Water Management Institute)

Mati, Bancy Mbura

2006

Working Paper 105

51

9. Semi-circular bunds or hoops, Demi-lunes, or half moons

Micro Catchment Technique

Demi-lunes implementation in Burkina Faso (photo from PDRDP-B/K)

Demi-lunes from Niger (Critchley et al., 1991).

Dimensions as used in Kenya. A cut off drain may be cut along the contour. (Critchley et al., 1991).
Technical Description: Semi-circular bunds are earth embankments in the shape of a semi-circle with the tips of the bunds on the contour. The semi-circular bunds are constructed in staggered lines with runoff producing catchments between structures. Semicircular bunds (the term "demi-lune" is used in Francophone Africa), are recommended as a quick and easy method of improving rangelands in semi-arid areas. Semi-circular bunds are more efficient in terms of impounded area to bund volume than other equivalent structures - such as trapezoidal bunds for example. Surprisingly, this technique has never been used traditionally. Depending on the location, and the chosen catchment: cultivated area ratio, it may be a short slope or long slope catchment technique. The examples described here are short slope catchment systems. C:CA ratios of up to 3:1 are generally recommended for water harvesting systems used for rangeland improvement and fodder -production. A detailed calculation is not required. The reasons for applying low ratios are that already adapted rangeland and fodder plants in semi-arid and arid areas need only a small amount of extra moisture to respond significantly with higher yields. Larger ratios would require bigger and more expensive structures, with a higher risk of breaching. Primary use: Semi-circular bunds, of varying dimensions, are used mainly for rangeland rehabilitation or fodder production. This

52

technique is also useful for growing trees and shrubs and, in some cases, has been used for growing crops. Useful design guidelines: Semi-circular bunds can be constructed in a variety of sizes, with a range of both radii and bund dimensions. Small radii are common when semi-circular bunds are used for tree growing and production of crops. A recommended radius for these smaller structures is 2 to 3 metres, with bunds of about 25 cm in height. Soil for the bund is either drawn from within the hoop thus levelling the land, or by creating a furrow inside or outside the hoop. Design "a" in the table below has a C:CA ratio of only 1.4:1, and does not require provision for overflow. Design "b" has a C:CA ratio of 3:1, and therefore provision for overflow around the tips of the bunds is recommended, though occurrence of overflow is usually rare. A larger C:CA ratio for design "b" is possible but it should not exceed 5:1.

QUANTITIES OF EARTHWORKS FOR SEMI-CIRCULAR BUNDS

Land slope Radius (m) (1) Design "a" 6 up to 1.0% Design "b" 20 up to 2.0% 4.0% Useful in: Semi-circular bunds for rangeland improvement and fodder production can be used under the following conditions: Rainfall: 200 - 750 mm: from arid to semi-arid areas. Soils: all soils which are not too shallow or saline. Slopes: below 2%, but with modified bund designs up to 5%. Topography: even topography required, especially for design "a" (see table above). Geographical extent of use: While widely promoted and accepted in Niger (where several thousand hectares are cultivated using this technology) and demonstrated in several areas of Kenya, neither country reports the spontaneous adoption by the technique by the community. 10 Length of Impounded area Earthworks bund (m) per bund (m2) bund (m3) (2) 19 63 31 (3) 57 630 160 (4) 2.4 26.4 13.2 Limitation: The main limitation of semi-circular bunds is that construction cannot easily be mechanized. per Bunds per ha (5) 73 4 16 Earthworks per ha (m3) (6) 175 105 210

Effectiveness: The semi-circular bunds are used mainly for increasing pasture production and rehabilitation of degraded lands and more seldom for crop production. The technique has resulted in dramatically improved vegetation growth within the bunds, but in most cases production has not been measured. Operation and maintenance: As with all earthen structures, the most critical period for semi-circular bunds is when rainstorms occur just after construction, since at this time the bunds are not yet fully consolidated. Any breakages must be repaired immediately. If damage occurs, it is

Cost: The cost of this technology can be approximated as $150/ha for labour.

53

recommended that a diversion ditch is provided if not already constructed. Semi-circular bunds which are used for fodder production normally need repairs of initial breaches only. This is because in the course of time, a dense network of the perennial grasses will protect the bunds against erosion and damage. The situation is different if animals have access to the bunded area and are allowed to graze. In this case, regular inspections and maintenance (repair) of bund damages will be necessary. Controlled grazing is also essential to maintain good quality rangeland, and the bunded area must be rested periodically for it to regenerate, so that natural reseeding can take place. Level of beneficiary involvement: Water harvesting for range improvement and for fodder production will mainly be applied in areas where the majority of the inhabitants are agropastoralists - at least in the Sub-Saharan Africa context. In these areas, the concept of improving communally used rangeland is usually alien. Therefore, it may be difficult to motivate the population to invest voluntarily, in the time and effort required for implementing and maintaining such a water harvesting system. Even when this is possible it is equally important to introduce an appropriate and acceptable range management programme to avoid over-grazing and subsequent degradation of the range. Cultural acceptability: The semi-circular bunds have been most successful where there was a high population density. It has been least successful when applied by pastoralists. Disadvantages: The technology has not been spontaneously taken up by the people - possibly because of a reluctance to invest much time in improving grazing lands. The structures are vulnerable to breakages when subjected to high volumes of runoff, but this is generally a function of the diversion ditches rather than the technology itself. When breakages due to overloading by runoff occur, the catchment to cultivation ratio need to be reduced. This technology is not suitable for use with mechanisation. Simi-circular bunds are primarily used for fodder production but grazing most be controlled or the fodder harvested for the animals to avoid trampling of the bunds.

Enabling Environment: Motivation, demonstration and maybe initial support for example as food/cash for work.

Environment benefits: The technology results in increased vegetation. To make a sustainable result a rotation scheme with cutting and resting is necessary. Advantages: Some dramatic improvements in vegetation within the semi-circular bunds have been reported. It is simple and easy to construct the bunds It is cheap to implement this technology if manual labour is available.

54

Information sources: Key references:

Critchley, W., Siegert, K., and contributions from: Chapman, C. DTIE

1991

1998

A Manual for the Design and Construction of Water Harvesting Schemes for Plant Production Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa

FAO

Book and publication

On-line

UNEP

Newsletter and technical publications

55

10. Negarims
Micro Catchment Technique

Layout of diamond-shaped Negarims, the common variation which is single, open-ended structures in "V", and planting of 2 seedlings which will experience different moisture conditions to make sure that one will survive (Critchley et al, 1991). Technical Description: Negarim micro catchments are diamond-shaped basins surrounded by small earth bunds. Each micro catchment consists of a catchment area and an infiltration pit (cultivated area). The shape of each unit is normally square, but the appearance from above is of a network of diamond shapes with infiltration pits in the lowest corners. Runoff is collected from within the basin and stored in the infiltration pit. The area of each unit is either determined on the basis of a calculation of the plant (tree) water requirement or, more usually, an estimate of this. Size of micro catchments (per unit) normally range between 10 m2 and 100 m2 depending on the specie of tree to be planted but larger sizes are also feasible, particularly when more than one tree will be grown within one unit. Where the ground slope exceeds 2.0%, the bund height near the infiltration pit must be increased. The table below gives recommended figures for different sizes and ground slopes. A common variation is to build micro catchments as single, open-ended structures in "V" or semi-circular shape. The advantage is that surplus water can flow around the tips of the bunds, however, the storage capacity is less than that of a closed system. These types of bunds are particularly useful on broken terrain, and for small numbers of trees around homesteads. Manure or compost should be applied to the planting pit to improve fertility and water-holding capacity. If grasses and herbs are allowed to develop in the catchment area, the runoff will be reduced to some extent, however, the fodder obtained gives a rapid return to the investment in construction. Regular weeding is necessary in the vicinity of the planting pit. Tree seedlings of at least 30 cm height should be planted immediately after the first rain of the season. It is recommended that two seedlings are planted in each micro catchment - one in the bottom of the pit (which would survive even in a dry year) and one on a step at the back of the pit. If both plants survive, the weaker can be removed after the beginning of the second season. For some species, seeds can be planted directly. This eliminates the cost of a nursery. Primary use: Negarim micro catchments are mainly used for growing fruit or nut trees and bushes for fodder. This technique is appropriate for small-scale tree planting in any area which has a moisture deficit.

56

Useful design guidelines: BUND HEIGHTS (cm) ON HIGHER GROUND SLOPES Size Unit Micro catchment Ground slope (m2) 3x3 4x4 5X5 6X6 8X8 10X12 12X12 15 X 15 30 35 45 35 45 50 2% 3% 4% even bund height of 25 cm 30 35 45 55 not recommended 30 35 45 55 5%

The top of the bund should be at least 25 cm wide and side slopes should be at least in the range of 1:1 in order to reduce soil erosion during rainstorms. Whenever possible, the bunds should be provided with a grass cover since this is the best protection against erosion. Limitation: Useful in: Negarim micro catchments are mainly useful for growing trees in arid and semi-arid areas. Rainfall: can be as low as 150 mm per annum. Soils: should be at least 1.5 m but preferably 2 m deep in order to ensure adequate root development and storage of the water harvested. Slopes: from flat up to 5.0%. Topography: need not be even - if uneven a block of micro catchments should be subdivided. Negarim micro catchments are appropriate both in village afforestation blocks, or around homesteads where a few openended "V" shaped micro catchments provide shade or support amenity trees. Geographical extent of use: Although the first reports of such micro catchments are from southern Tunisia the technique has been developed in the Negev desert of Israel. The word "Negarim" is derived from the Hebrew word for runoff - "Neger". Negarim micro catchments are the most well known form of all water harvesting systems. Israel has the most widespread and best developed Negarim micro catchments, mostly located on research farms in the Negev Desert, where rainfall is as low as 100-150 mm per annum. However the technique, and variations of it, is widely used in other semi-arid and arid areas, especially in North and Sub-Saharan Africa and India. Because it is a well-proven technique, it is often one of the first to be tested by new projects. Not easily mechanised therefore limited in scale. Once the trees are planted, it is not possible to operate and cultivate with machines between the tree lines. Not suitable for crops.

Effectiveness: Have proved to increase fruit yield considerably in Israel and India. The negarims makes cultivation of trees and fodder grasses possible and thus revegetation of areas to dry for most vegetation.

57

Cost: Negarim micro catchments have been developed in Israel for the production of fruit trees, but even there the returns on investment are not always positive. It is not a cheap technique, bearing in mind that one person-day is required to build (on average) two units, and costs per unit rise considerably as the micro catchment size increases. It is essential that the costs are balanced against the potential benefits. In the case of multipurpose trees in arid/semi-arid areas, for several years the main benefit will be the soil conservation effect and grass for fodder until the trees become productive. Enabling Environment: Motivation, demonstration, assistance with designing and maybe initial support for example as food/cash for work. Environment benefits: Soil conservation, vegetation of arid areas Advantages: Enables some output from arid areas Minimises erosion Culturally acceptable technique Information sources: Key references: Critchley, W., Siegert, K., and contributions from: Chapman, C. Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ethiopia RELMA; World Agroforestry Centre 1991

Operation and maintenance: Maintenance will be required for repair of damages to bunds, which may occur if storms are heavy soon after construction when the bunds are not yet fully consolidated. The site should be inspected after each significant rainfall as breakages can have a "domino" effect if left unrepaired.

Level of beneficiary involvement: As much as possible to ensure ownership and thus maintenance Cultural acceptability: One of the oldest techniques and already accepted in most places. Disadvantages: Labour intensive

A Manual for the Design and Construction of Water Harvesting Schemes for Plant Production Managing Land A practical guidebook for development agents in Ethiopia

FAO

Book and publication

On-line

2005

RELMA

Technical Handbook No. 36

58

11. Tied Contour Ridges (furrows or bunds)

Micro Catchment Technique

Contour ridges as used in Kenya (Critchley et al., 1992).

Field layout for contour ridging which varies according to the catchment to harvest area ratio (Critchley et al., 1991).

Planting configuration (Critchley et al., 1991). Technical Description: Contour ridges is a micro catchment technique, sometimes called contour furrows or micro watersheds. Ridges follow the contour at a spacing of usually 1 to 2 metres. Runoff is collected from the uncultivated strip between ridges and stored in a furrow just above the ridges. Crops are planted on both sides of the furrow. The system is simple to construct - by hand or by machine - and can be even less labour intensive than the conventional tilling of a plot. The yield of runoff from the very short catchment lengths is extremely efficient and when designed and constructed correctly there should be no loss of runoff out of the system. The main crop (usually a cereal) is seeded into the upslope side of the ridge between the top of the ridge and the furrow. At this point, the plants have a greater depth of top soil. An intercrop, usually a legume, can be planted in front of the furrow. It is recommended that the plant population of the cereal crop be reduced to approximately 65% of the standard for conventional rain fed cultivation. The reduced number of plants thus have more moisture available in years of low rainfall. Contour bunds with larger spacing (5-10 m) are useful growing trees. Primary use: The tied contour ridging system is used for crop production (crops are planted on the ridges as well as in the furrows) and tree planting (with a wider distance between ridges).

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Useful design guidelines: The overall layout consists of parallel, or almost parallel, earth ridges approximately on the contour at a spacing of between one and two metres. Soil is excavated and placed down slope to form a ridge, and the excavated furrow above the ridge collects runoff from the catchment strip between ridges. Small earth ties in the furrow are provided every few metres to ensure an even storage of runoff. A diversion ditch may be necessary to protect the system against runoff from outside. The cultivated area is not easy to define. It is a common practice to assume a 50 cm strip with the furrow at its centre. Crops are planted within this zone, and use the runoff concentrated in the furrow. Thus for a typical distance of 1.5 m between ridges, the C:CA ratio is 2:1; that is a catchment strip of one metre and a cultivated strip of half a metre. A distance of 2 metres between ridges would give a 3:1 ratio. The C:CA ratio can be adjusted by increasing or decreasing the distance between the ridges. In practice a spacing of 1.5 - 2.0 metres between ridges (C:CA ratios of 2:1 and 3:1 respectively) is generally recommended for annual crops in semi-arid areas. Ridges need only be as high as necessary to prevent overtopping by runoff. As the runoff is harvested only from a small strip between the ridges, a height of 15 -20 cm is sufficient. If bunds are spaced at more than 2 metres, the ridge height must be increased. Limitation: Useful in: Contour ridges for crop production can be used under the following conditions: Rainfall: 350 - 750 mm. (and down to 200 mm for trees) Soils: all soils which are suitable for agriculture. Heavy and compacted soils may be a constraint to construction of ridges by hand. Slopes: from flat up to 5.0%. Topography: must be even - areas with rills or undulations should be avoided. The technology is being used in a variety of climatic and soil conditions and can be adapted to rainfall by adjusting the distance between contours and also the area of cropping. Water harvesting potential is reduced or lost if the catchment area is planted. At Baringo, Kenya, where there is a mean annual rainfall of 655 mm, the project area has a catchment to cultivated area ratio of 2:1. Geographical extent of use: Contour ridges for crops are not a widespread technique in Africa, but have been adopted in Kenya, Niger, Zimbabwe, amongst others. It does not seem to be taken up spontaneously, however, and is mainly promoted through projects and government policy. Nevertheless, tied ridges are widely used in commercial farming situations in southern Africa also as a mean of controlling soil erosion. Contour ridges are limited to areas with relatively high rainfall, as the amount of harvested runoff is comparatively small due to the small catchment area.

Effectiveness: Data from Kenya suggest that there are considerable yield advantages in using the contour system. When used in combination with appropriate crops, it also has a demonstrated ability to reduce the risk of crop failure due to drought by concentrating the runoff. This technology has been used with millet, cowpeas and sorghum. The application and effectiveness of the technology is believed to be greatest in those areas where soils have been degraded to the extent that the people cannot reverse the trend using their own resources. An external input of mechanical equipment can have a large impact in these situations.

Cost: With human labour, an estimated 32 person days/ha (approximately $1.5/day) is required. Using machinery, the time requirement is reduced, but the costs are increased to an estimated $100/ha.

Operation and maintenance: If contour ridges are correctly laid out and built, it is unlikely that there will be any overtopping and breaching. Nevertheless if breaches do occur, the ridges or ties must be repaired immediately. The uncultivated catchment area between the ridges should be kept free of vegetation to ensure that the

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optimum amount of runoff flows into the furrows. At the end of each season the ridges need to be rebuilt to their original height. After two or three seasons, depending on the fertility status of the soils, it may be necessary to move the ridges down slope by approximately a metre or more, which will result in a fresh supply of nutrients to the plants. Enabling Environment: Globally, this is a well-documented and widely-practised technology which can be adapted to a variety of conditions. However, in Africa, it requires effective extension and promotion before it is widely adopted Environment benefits: Benefits of land rehabilitation and reduced soil erosion are normal results when this technology is used. Level of beneficiary involvement: While possible to prepare with hand implements, most projects have used mechanised equipment to construct the contour ridges. Farming practices thereafter are left in the hands of the community. The siting of contours can be done by the community after training. Cultural acceptability: The contour ridge technique is one of the simplest and cheapest methods of water harvesting, but as it implies a new tillage and planting method compared with conventional cultivation, farmers may be initially reluctant to accept this technique. Demonstration and motivation are therefore very important. It can be implemented by the farmer using a hoe, at no or little extra cost. Alternatively it can be mechanized and a variety of implements can be used. When used by a farmer on his own land, the system does not create any conflicts of interest between the implementer and the beneficiary. It has been reported that farmers were reluctant to repair bunds after they were washed away in Baringo, Kenya. Disadvantages: The unusual cropping system of planting on ridges and next to furrows, but leaving the catchment unplanted may be a disincentive for adopting this technology. The relatively low planting density discourages farmers, especially in a good year The system may appear more labour-intensive than it actually is. The technique does not work well on steep slopes.

Advantages: This low cost technology has the potential to increase food security in below normal rainfall years. The system can be implemented using either a mechanised or manual labour approach. As with other water harvesting methods, it is more likely to be successful in areas which experience severe dry spells and/or highly variable rainfalls. The technology reduces soil erosion and increases soil moisture content. Even crop growth due to the fact that each plant has approximately the same contributing catchment area.

Key references: Critchley, W., Siegert, K., and contributions from: Chapman, C. DTIE Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ethiopia RELMA; World Agroforestry Centre 1991 1998 A Manual for the Design and Construction of Water Harvesting Schemes for Plant Production Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa Managing Land A practical guidebook for development agents in Ethiopia FAO UNEP Book and publication Newsletter technical publications On-line and

2005

RELMA

Technical Handbook No. 36

61

12. Fanya-juu Terracing

Micro Catchment Technique

Initial profile and later development of fanya juu terraces (Critchley et al., 1991). Technical Description:

Construction of the bund (Critchley et al., 1991).

The structure is called Fanya juu (juu is Swahili word for 'up') because during construction, the soil is thrown up-slope to make an embankment which forms a runoff barrier leaving a trench (canal) which is used for retaining or collecting runoff. Fanya-juu terraces are constructed by throwing soil up slope from a ditch to form a bund along a contour. The trench is 60 cm wide by 60 cm deep, and the bund 50 cm high by 150 cm across at the base. Enlarged fanya juus are about 1.5 m deep and one metre wide. Through gradual erosion and redistribution of soils within the enclosed fields, the terraced lands level off, forming the terraces. Soil and rainwater are conserved within the bunds, and the bunds are usually stabilised with planted fodder grasses. Cutoff drains may be installed in order to protect the terraces from surplus runoff. If stones are available, stone terrace walls are appropriate as they allows surplus water to pass between the stones and overtop the walls. Distance between bunds depends upon the slope (5 m on steeply sloping lands to 20 m on more gently sloping lands) Often, runoff from external catchments (roads, homestead compounds or grazing land) is led into the canals which act as retention ditches allowing water more time to infiltrate the soil. Primary use: Crops such as bananas, pawpaws, citrus and guava are grown in the ditches. Fodder grasses or scrubs are planted on the bunds. Useful in: This technology is suitable for regions with about 700 mm annual rainfall or above. Soils should be deep. The technique is suitable both on gentle slopes and has proven effective in water harvesting on slopes greater than 5% where other water harvesting techniques are not recommended. Geographical extent of use: The technology is known from the Machakos and Kitui Districts of Kenya, which is hilly and subject to widespread erosion. 70% of the cultivated land in the Machakos District is reported to have been terraced. Similar terracing systems are found in many countries where Limitation: Labour intensive.

Effectiveness: In Machakos, crop yields have increased by 50% (or by 400 kg/ha) through the use of fanya-juu terraces.

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the stones from rocky slopes are used to build the bunds or terrace walls, often on very steep slopes. Contour ridges may be combined with this system. Cost: The labour required for construction is estimated at 150 to 350 person days/ha for terraces and cutoff drains Enabling Environment: Motivation, demonstration, assistance with designing and maybe initial support for example as food/cash for work. As there is a history of forced terracing in East Africa, motivation and strong local involvement is very important. Operation and maintenance: Regular maintenance of the embankment is required.

Level of beneficiary involvement: In Kenya, the implementation of this technology is normally undertaken by self-help groups who work collectively on each others lands. Some richer members of the community employ others to prepare the terraces since family labour on its own is generally not adequate for constructing these features Cultural acceptability: In Kenya, the technology has fitted well into culture of the self-help groups present in the areas of application to date, and reinforces their emphasis on full involvement of the community in freshwater augmentation efforts. The technology has already been established in the area and, therefore, there was no cultural resistance to it. Disadvantages: The technology is costly in terms of labour. Unprotected bunds, which have not been planted with grass, are very susceptible to erosion.

Environment benefits: Fanya Juu teases are effectively controlling soil erosion if well maintained. Where a whole catchment has been terraced there is an improvement in stream flows with consequent benefits for a village water supply.

Advantages: The technology generally results in a reliable increase in crop yields.

Key references: DTIE 1998 Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa Rainwater harvesting for improved food security, Promising technologies in the Greater Horn of Africa Water Harvesting Technologies in Kenya, KARI Technical Note No. 16 Water Harvesting in Five African Countries. UNEP Newsletter and technical publications

Ngigi, Stephen N. Itabari, J.K. and Wamuongo, J.W. Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher

2003

GHARP

Book Technical Note Series Occasional Paper No. 14

2003 1990

KARI IRC

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13. Contour Stone Bunds

Pictures: Micro/External Catchment Technique

Artists impression, contour stone bunding (Critchley et al., 1991). Technical Description:

Detail of stone bund (Critchley et al., 1991.)

Contour stone bunds are used to slow down and filter runoff, thereby increasing infiltration and capturing sediment. The water and sediment harvested lead directly to improved crop performance.. Making bunds - or merely lines - of stones is a traditional practice in parts of Sahelian West Africa, notably in Burkina Faso. Improved construction and alignment along the contour makes the technique considerably more effective. The great advantage of systems based on stone is that there is no need for spillways, where potentially damaging flows are concentrated. The filtering effect of the semi-permeable barrier along its full length gives a better spread of runoff than earth bunds are able to do. Furthermore, stone bunds require much less maintenance. For rehabilitation of barren and crusted soils the farmers often use a combination of stone bunds and planting pits. The contour stone bunds do not concentrate runoff but keep it spread. They also reduce the rate of runoff allowing infiltration, which is further enhanced through the use of the planting pits. Farmers often start at the lower points of a field and work upslope rather than the conventional wisdom which would suggest starting at the higher points in the catchment and working down slope. Stone bunds, however, are not easily damaged or destroyed by runoff, and, by starting lower on the slope, farmers can be certain to harvest sufficient runoff for production of a crop in a year of below average or irregular rainfall. Primary use: For crop or tree production on gently sloping land Useful design guidelines: Stone bunds or a single line of stones following the contour, or the approximate contour, are laid across fields or grazing land. The resulting structures are up to 25 cm high with a base width of 35 to 40 cm. To increases stability they are set in a trench of 5 to 10 cm depth which. The spacing between bunds varies depending largely on the amount of stone and labour available. Bund spacing of 20 metres for slopes of less than 1%, and 15 metres for slopes of 1-2%, are recommended. There is no need for diversion ditches or provision of spillways. It is important to incorporate a mixture of large and small stones. A common error is to use only large stones, which

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allow runoff to flow freely through the gaps in-between. The bund should be constructed according to the "reverse filter" principle - with smaller stones placed upstream of the larger ones to facilitate rapid siltation. Useful in: Stone bunds for crop production can be used under the following conditions: Rainfall: 200 mm - 750 mm; from arid to semi-arid areas. Soils: agricultural soils. Slopes: preferably below 2%. Topography: need not be completely even. Stone availability: must be good local supply of stone. Geographical extent of use: Stones have traditionally been used to mark fields where available. Stone bunds on the contour were pioneered in the 1980s in Burkina Faso as a simple and effective technique for conserving water and soil resources. Since that time, it has been spreading rapidly and is for example used in Mali, Sudan, Niger and Kenya. Effectiveness: Farmers use stone bunds on fields currently under cultivation and to expand cultivation to new areas. Stone bunding is particularly attractive to farmers because of its ability to be implemented on fields already under cultivation. Yields in the first year have been increased by an estimated 40%. When barren fields are rehabilitated, yields of 1 200 kg/ha have been achieved in the first year. Application of fertilisers has only rarely been necessary, and the expected decline in fertility has not been observed although it is expected that, ultimately, there will be a need for a limited use of fertilisers. Operation and maintenance: There is limited, ongoing repair required as the stones are not vulnerable to erosion. However, silting behind the stone bunds requires that the stones to be re-laid from time to time or it has been suggested that the planting of perennial grass on the bunds will maintain their function of slowing and spreading water and help to retain deposited silt within the bund basins. Care must be taken that overtopping of the bunds does not lead to erosion on the downstream face, with subsequent gully formation and undercutting of the bund. Level of beneficiary involvement: In Burkina Faso , the technology has spread of its own accord after the initial, demonstration project. Thousands of hectares outside of the project area currently use this technology. It is entirely farmer managed. Cultural acceptability: Stones have traditionally been used in soil and water conservation as well as for marking ones field. Farmers in the Yatenga Region of Burkina Faso have traditionally used stone lines on their fields. For this reason, the further development of the concept into installation of stone bunds has been readily accepted. Farmer-to-farmer extension has been shown to be an effective tool which is underrated in many projects. Limitation: Availability of stones

Cost: Labour requirements are very sensitive to availability of stone and the productivity of the labours would decrease significantly if stone has to be transported over greater distances and/or is of too large a size and has to be broken. Labour can be estimated as $ 1.5/day

Enabling Environment: Demonstration in farmers field

Environment benefits: The technology has noticeable, positive environmental impacts, leading to the rehabilitation of degraded lands and reducing soil erosion.

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Advantages: Benefits to farmers have been evident The technology is simple to implement at the local level. Stone bunds do not readily wash away and, therefore, the technique is not vulnerable to unusual and variable intensity rainfall events.

Disadvantages: The popularity of the technique has resulted in shortages of stones and, therefore, a higher cost for latecomers.

Information sources:

http://www.fao.org/documents/show_cdr.asp?url_file=/docrep/T1765E/t1765e0o.htm
Key references: DTIE Critchley, W., Siegert, K., and contributions from: Chapman, C. Lee, M.D. and J.T. Visscher 1998 Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa A Manual for the Design and Construction of Water Harvesting Schemes for Plant Production Water Harvesting in Five African Countries. UNEP Newsletter and technical publications Book and publication On-line

1991 1990

FAO IRC

Occasional Paper No. 14

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14. Earth Bunds with external catchment (Teras)

External Catchment Technique

Typical element of the teras water harvesting structure Technical Description:

Overview of a teras water harvesting system

Earthen bunds are essentially an external catchment, long slope technique of water harvesting. Typically a u-shaped structure of earthen bunds which farmers build on their cultivated lands to harvest runoff from adjacent upslope catchments, this technique usually collects rainwater and, sometimes, floodwaters. The base bund approximately follows the contour line and impounds the runoff. Two outer arms fulfil the same function and also act as conveyance structures which direct water to the cultivated lands. Sometimes, shorter inner arms are added which divide the land into smaller basins and improve the spread of captured runoff. A shallow channel is left on the inside of the bund to support the conveyance and circulation of runoff. Excess water is normally drained along the tips of the outer arms which are reinforced with materials such as stones, brushwood or old tyres. Bunds are usually 0.5 m high and 2 m deep at the base, but these dimensions can vary greatly depending on both the slope and the amount of runoff expected in the area. The base can be between 50 to 300 m long, while the arms are usually 20 to 100 m long. The size of the cultivated area serviced by such a structure is 0.2 to 3 ha. Primary use: Cultivation of crops Useful in: The technology is appropriate for arid areas with short duration intensive rainfall, for example aggravated by presence of mountains. Low infiltration further increases the generation of runoff from teras catchments. Catchments are normally 2 to 3 times the cultivated area in regions of 150 to 400 mm annual rainfall. Geographical extent of use: One of the few examples of traditional water harvesting technologies where the technique is applied over a wide area. The Teras system in Sudan dates back to the Effectiveness: The technique allows the production of a crop of millet or sorghum. Based on data from the Sudan, yields may reach 750 kg/ha in a good year. Quick maturing millet should be Limitation: Availability of suitable external catchment.

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immigration of Arab tribes from the ninth century A.D who developed the method. In West Africa (Ghana, Burkina Faso and Mali) the system has been widely adopted in valley bottoms. Cost: The bunds can be constructed manually and mechanised There are no data available on costs.

planted immediately after the water from a storm has subsided. This crop grows and matures in about 80 days.

Operation and maintenance: This system is regarded as labour- extensive. Nomadic tribes use the system and fit maintenance into the schedule. Generally, between 3 and 18 days/ha of work is required to ensure that the system runs efficiently. However, additional work is required for repair and adjusting of bunds in order for the system to work optimally. Level of beneficiary involvement: Entirely traditional and farmer-managed, earthen bunds may be built by hand using simple tools, although the use of hired tractors is becoming more common. Cultural acceptability: There are no cultural restrictions. Disadvantages: The lack of a spillway can result in breaking of bunds.

Enabling Environment: In Sudan the system is entirely farmer initiated and managed. Extension and training is needed to spread the technique Environment benefits: Use of this technology reduces land degradation. Advantages: Makes it possible to grow crops in arid and semi-arid areas with short spell high intensive rainfall. The technology is traditionally entirely farmer managed and, therefore, has no problems with ownership and is not subject to the organisational problems of other soil and water conservation techniques.

Information sources: Johan Van Dijk, University of Amsterdam, Dep. of Human Geography. E-mail discussion group. http://www.iwmi.cgiar.org/africa/west_africa/projects/AdoptionTechnology/RainWaterHarvesting/53-tera.htm Key references: DTIE 1998 Sourcebook Alternative technologies Freshwater Augmentation Africa of for in UNEP Newsletter publications and technical

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15. Contour Ridges with external catchments

External-catchment water harvesting system

Macro-catchment water harvesting in Niger

Technical Description: A further variation of the contour ridging technique described in a previous fact sheet, this technology uses an external catchment (uncultivated area, rock surfaces or roads) and incorporates a stone spillway into the contour bund, providing for excess runoff to flow around the structure. Bunds are made of earth or, occasionally, stone, and, in Niger, they are usually covered with a layer of stone on the top and back slope. The area impounded by the bund is planted. The usual catchment to cultivated area ratio is 2:1 but reaches 5:1 in Kenya where off contour bunds are used as collection systems to channel runoff to cultivated plots. For full utilisation of the cropping area, the spillway height should be level with the base of the spillway on the next contour uphill. Levelling of the ground between contours assists in water spreading when runoff is collected. The spillway height determines the depth of water retained and is usually about 10 cm. Primary use: Cultivation of crops Useful in: This technology is suitable areas with low and unreliable rainfall, with an annual precipitation of 350 to 650 mm. It is also well-suited for use in the reclamation of degraded land. Geographical extent of use: A variety of bund systems are used widely all over the globe, but this particular system is introduced and practiced in Niger and Kenya. Limitation: Availability of a suitable generating catchment Labour availability Effectiveness: In Kenya, the comparison with control plots has shown a significant increase in yields of sorghum and cow peas. No data is available. catchment, runoff-

69

Cost: In Niger, the estimated construction cost is about $500/ha for bunds, land preparation and fertiliser. In Kenya, 100 person days/ha are commonly devoted to construction.

Operation and maintenance: Maintenance is required to control erosion around spillways and bund wing walls. Achieving adequate compaction of bunds with manual construction methods is difficult and may result in breaches during the first year of operation. Grass planted on the bunds and spillways helps to protect these surfaces from erosion and reduces maintenance requirements, particularly since some resistance to the repair of breached bunds was reported in Kenya. Level of beneficiary involvement: In the Kenyan project introducing the system, all bund construction work was done manually, whereas, the bunds were constructed by machine and only the stone laid by hand in the Nigerian project. Construction work was largely done through foodfor-work programmes and there is some concern about the level of true involvement of people. In at least one application, it was observed that there was little voluntary participation in the use of this technology by the community. Cultural acceptability: There are no surveys on the cultural acceptability but the labour requirement for maintaining the bunds may be a general problem. Disadvantages: A high demand for labour for construction and maintenance may be a reason for the low level of acceptance by the community.

Enabling Environment: Information, demonstration on farmers field and support for initial construction work.

Environment benefits: The system reduces soil erosion.

Advantages: The runoff is concentrated thus allowing cultivation of a crop where it would otherwise not be possible.

Key references: DTIE 1998 Sourcebook of Alternative technologies for Freshwater Augmentation in Africa UNEP Newsletter and technical publications

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ANNEX E: Key actors

The main actors and sources for information have been listed below: Global Water Partnership. The Global Water Partnership is a working partnership among all those involved in water management: government agencies, public institutions, private companies, professional organizations, multilateral development agencies and others committed to the DublinRio principles. www.gwpforum.org Centre for Science and Environment. Major NGO in India started in 1980, which aims to increase public awareness on science, technology, environment and development. Searching for solutions that people and communities can implement themselves. www.rainwaterharvesting.org CREPA (Centre Rgional pour lEau Potable et lAssainissement faible cot). Regional network based in West and Central Africa with the objective to promote low cost water and sanitation technologies in the region. Its network covers 17 countries and currently includes 11 active country offices. www.reseaucrepa.org DTU, School of Engineering, University of Warwick. The DTU works with the development and transfer of technologies appropriate to rural areas of tropical countries. Has a specific research programme of RWH. www.eng.warwick.ac.uk IRCSA. International Rainwater Catchment Systems Association. Promote rainwater catchment systems technology with respect to planning, development, management, science, technology, research and education worldwide; establish an international forum for scientists, engineers, educators, administrators. www.ircsa.org IFAD. International Fund for Agricultural Development. Assistance to and evaluation of rural development projects inclusive of rain/water harvesting initiatives. www.ifad.org FAO. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Assistance to rural development projects. Development of documentation and evaluation of rainwater harvesting techniques for agriculture. www.fao.org UNEP. United Nations Environmental Programme. Focus on rainwater harvesting as an application to increase water availability from rain, which can help to meet urban water demand and consumption, and also useful for flood control in urban areas. www.unep.or.jp/ietc/ws/index.asp UN-HABITAT. United Nations Human Settlements Programme. UN-HABITATs Water and Sanitation Programme is improving access to safe water and helping provide adequate sanitation to millions of low income urban dwellers. www.unhabitat.org IRHA. International Rainwater Harvesting Alliance. Promote Rainwater Harvesting, within the context of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), linking local social and economic development with the protection of vital ecosystems. www.irha-h2o.org SEARNET. Southern and Eastern Africa Rain Water Harvesting Network. Network among its member associations within the region (Kenya, Ethiopia, Botswana, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Eritrea, Mozambique, Somaliland and South Africa) for the promotion of rainwater harvesting and utilization. www.searnet.org RELMA. Assist small-scale land users to obtain knowledge on efficient and sustainable farm production: land rehabilitation, soil fertility and conservation agriculture; water management; landuse intensification; marketing and policy advocacy; strengthening of farmer organizations and service providers; and support to viable networks. www.relma.org IRC International Water and Sanitation Centre. Facilitate promotion, sharing and use of knowledge, so that governments, professionals and organisations can better support poor men, women and children in developing countries to obtain water and sanitation services they will/can use and maintain. RWH is among one of the techniques that IRC is promoting, evaluating and provide information upon. www.irc.nl

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Rainwater Partnership. Integration of rainwater harvesting in water policies, use of rainwater in all sectors, exchange of information and allocation of necessary financial, institutional and human resources for using rain-water. www.rainwaterpartnership.org RAIN (Rainwater Harvesting Implementation Network). International network with the aim to increase access to water for vulnerable sections of society in developing countries - women and children in particular - by collecting and storing rainwater in water tanks and wells.www.rainfoundation.org Action for Food Production. Provide technical guidance and backup support to grassroots level NGOs for the implementation of environmentally friendly projects for water (including RWH techniques), food security, livelihoods and allied capacity building. www.afpro.org

In addition, in several African countries, rainwater associations have been established and initiated various projects of different size mainly for demonstration and avocation for further use. These associations include:

Kenya Rainwater Association (KRA). Botswana Rainwater Harvesting and Utilization Association (BORHUA), Ethiopia Rainwater Harvesting Association (ERHA). Rainwater Harvesting Association of Malawi (RHAM), Rainwater Harvesting Association of Rwanda (RRHA), Rainwater Harvesting Association of Tanzania (RHAT), Uganda Rainwater Harvesting Association (URWA), Zambia Rainwater Harvesting Association (ZAHRA) Rainwater Harvesting Association of Zimbabwe (RHAZ).

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