Implications on Lake Phewa and Kulekhani Reservoir of Chemical Fertiliser Application by Farmers

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Kafle, Babi Kumar^; | Dahal, Bed Mani | Sharma, Chhatra Mani | Gurung, Smriti | Kafle, Kumud Raj | Raut, Nani^{; *}

Affiliations: Department of Chemical Science and Engineering, School of Engineering, Kathmandu University, Nepal | Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, School of Science, Kathmandu University, Nepal | Central Department of Environmental Science, Institute of Science and Technology, Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding Author. nani.raut@ku.edu.np

Abstract: This study analysed factors influencing the decision to use chemical fertilisers by farmers at the household level, and it included a related assessment of nutrients in nearby water bodies. One focus group discussion was held at each site, and then a total of 198 and 58 households in Lake Phewa and Kulekhani Reservoir, respectively, were surveyed. The results reveal that 90% and 55% of households applied chemical fertilisers in Lake Phewa and Kulekhani Reservoir, respectively. A logistic regression model indicated that the two factors having a significant positive influence on the decision to use chemical fertilisers were higher vegetable yield and the amount of urea available to farmers Water sampling indicated that phosphorous concentrations were relatively high in both these water bodies compared to previous studies in other nearby lakes.

Keywords: DAP, fertiliser, Kulekhani Reservoir, Nepal, nutrient loading, Phewa Lake, urea

DOI: 10.3233/AJW230038

Journal: Asian Journal of Water, Environment and Pollution, vol. 20, no. 3, pp. 57-65, 2023