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

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.