Cattle corralling for improved maize production and climate change resilience in the Sudano-Savanna area of Benin, West Africa

Abstract

Cattle corralling is an essential traditional soil fertility management practice with potential for enhancing agricultural productivity and climate resilience in resource-constrained farming systems. This study aimed to investigate the socio-cultural and biophysical dimensions of cattle corralling in northern Benin and its implications for maize productivity under current and future climate scenarios. The research was structured around four objectives: (i) assess the socio-cultural benefits, constraints, and determinants of corralling-based strategies, (ii) evaluate the impact of traditional corralling on soil health, (iii) assess the contribution of corralling to maize production under different water management systems, and (iv) model the effects of corralling under projected climate conditions. To achieve the first objective, a socio-economic survey was conducted among 392 smallholder farmers spanning three distinct agroecological zones in Benin. Descriptive statistics, Factorial Correspondence Analysis (FCA), and binary logistic regression were employed to characterize corralling practices and identify adoption drivers. For the second objective, a field experiment assessed the impact of corralling on soil physical and chemical properties over time, using laboratory analysis of soil bulk density, hydraulic conductivity, macronutrient levels (N, P, K), and soil organic carbon (SOC). The third objective involved on-farm trials to evaluate maize growth, yield, water-use efficiency, and nutrient factor productivity under deficit and additional irrigation. Finally, for the fourth objective, the DSSAT crop simulation model was calibrated and validated to simulate long-term impacts of cattle corralling on maize productivity under future climate scenarios (RCP 8.5). The results revealed that 71% of farmers adopted cattle corralling practices, with key determinants including agroecological zone, education level, access to credit, and extension services. Corralling improved soil fertility by reducing bulk density (up to 12%) and enhancing NPK and SOC levels (up to 25%). Maize yields increased significantly, with corralling and additional irrigation resulting in yield improvements of up to 55% compared to control plots. The crop model projections showed that corralling could sustain maize productivity under future climate conditions, with increased resilience to heat and water stress, contributing to soil carbon sequestration. This study underscores the relevance of cattle corralling as a sustainable land management strategy for enhancing soil health, crop productivity, and climate resilience. It provides critical insights for policymakers, extension agents, and researchers aiming to promote sustainable agriculture in the Sudano-Savanna region.