Evaluation : land classification and soil survey project, Yemen

Special evaluation covers the period 9/78-8/82 and is based on document review, discussions with USAID/Y, Government of the Yemen Arab Republic (YARG), and contractor personnel, and site visits. While soil survey personnel were not in place until 3/81, two and a half years after the project paper was signed, project objectives will be achieved by project end. Survey activities have produced excellent soil descriptions, and work on a general soil map and a land use map is on schedule and meets contract requirements. Soil analysis by the YARG soil laboratory has been effective and efficient; however, two integral personnel will leave the laboratory in 9/82. Innovative procedures used in land classification resulted in high accuracy at a low cost; soil survey activities were also cost-effective. A comparison of land use in 1972 to current land use could not be completed due to lack of baseline data; difficulties encountered in utilizing earlier data demonstrate the need for a National Soil Survey and Land Classification Office. Two YARG soil scientists received training in English, soil mapping, and satellite image interpretation; however, both scientists plan to leave their positions soon. Implementation was hampered somewhat by the lack of cooperation between the YARG Agronomy Department and the Resource Information Laboratory, the contractor's difficulties in handling logistics, and internal contractor conflicts. Because soil and land use maps being developed are not detailed enough to serve as a basis for agricultural decisionmaking, a follow-on project, to include larger scale (preferably 1:100,000) maps and in-country training in agricultural planning for YARG officials, is recommended. However, the follow-on project should not begin until: the present soil survey is completed; the general soil map is revised to correct mistakes in subgroup units or soil associations and to base soil groupings on soil characteristics; the soil laboratory is adequately staffed; and field equipment needs are determined. It is also recommended that steps be taken to minimize start-up delays and that the contractor not be considered for the follow-on project until its internal problems are solved.