Factors Influencing Adoption of Environmental Conservation Practices among Smallholder Farmers in Bahi District, Tanzania

Background: Environmental conservation is vital for sustainable agriculture and natural resource management. In Bahi District, where smallholder farmers dominate crops and livestock production, serious environmental degradation including soil erosion, deforestation, and water pollution endangers sustainability and livelihoods. However, conservation methods are still not widely adopted. Objective: This study aims to investigate the factors influencing the adoption of environmental conservation practices among smallholder farmers in Bahi District, Tanzania. Method: The study employed a cross-sectional mixed methods research design. A total of 224 smallholder farmers residing in Bahi district were sampled using random sampling technique. Data were collected using structured questionnaire, and focus group discussions (FGDs). Structured questionnaire were tested using Cronbach alfa for internal consistency and found to be reliable (α = 0.87). Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics (frequency and percent), and general linear model, specifically multivariate probit regression analysis which quantified the factors influencing adoption of different environmental conservation practices. Results: The study showed that cover crops (63.4%), organic farming (44.6%), and agroforestry (41.1%) were the most adopted soil conservation methods, while reservoir building (25.4%) and water recycling (33.0%) were the primary water conservation techniques. Over 30% of farmers did not implement strategies for biodiversity conservation, flood control, or food/nutrient preservation. Statistical analysis indicated that environmental awareness strongly influenced biodiversity conservation (β = 0.697), while improved food security positively affected flood control (β = 0.549), pest management (β = 0.840), and food/nutrient conservation (β = 0.870). Economic incentives promoted soil conservation (β = 0.804), and peer influence enhanced flood control (β = 0.509) and water conservation (β = 0.637). Conversely, larger family sizes negatively impacted soil and biodiversity conservation. Education positively influenced soil conservation(β = 0.707) and water conservation (β = 0.669). Conclusion: The research concluded that interrelated social, economic, educational, and demographic elements continuously influence farmers' environmental conservation efforts, highlighting the systemic difficulties they have while deciding on environmental conservation. Unique Contribution: This study adds unique insights on sustainable smallholder farming systems in the Bahi district by showing how interrelated demographic, educational, social, and economic variables influence farmers' adoption of environmental conservation measures. Key Recommendation: Strengthening environmental conservation in Bahi District requires community-based education, economic support, and multi-stakeholder collaboration to sustain initiatives.