KORI BANK PROTECTION

Evaluation covers the period 3/1/77-12/31/79 and was based upon onsite visits and interviews. This project is part of the Accelerated Impact Program (AIP) (698041000) formerly under the Mission project 683022100. This project demonstrated that several erosion control (EC) technologies can be effective and that local residents are capable of constructing EC structures with limited supervision. Unfortunately, light rains made it impossible to accurately judge the capacity of the works to retard erosion. The level of project management was good and the achievement of output was satisfactory. An estimated 760 people benefitted from the EC barriers. Five and one half kilometers of Kori bank EC structures were erected. Vegetative protection structures did not meet planned lengths, while gabion work exceeded expectations. The following lessons were learned: (1) AIP funding permitted A.I.D. funds to be mobilized immediately through existing structures set up by the Church World Service and the Agadez Department Agricultural Service. Also the project exceeded AIP guidelines primarily due to shipping delays and the decision to procure U.S. manufactured gabions. (2) Two independent project evaluations provide a unique historical perspective to the long-run development of this area. Also, the existence of agricultural surveys can be used in future long-term studies. (3) The French Bureau for Overseas Scientific & Technical Research (ORSTOM) has performed its implementing duties well and was able to design and evaluate projects according to A.I.D. specifications. A.I.D. should determine the source of funds needed for final payment to ORSTROM for the 1978 hydrological study. Also, A.I.D. should determine if ORSTROM will assess the effects of this year"s rains and floods on the constructed EC structure.