4. Discussion
4.1. Influence of SWC structures on the spatial variability of SOM-related properties
The implementation of SWC structures in semi-arid agricultural re- gions has been reported to have beneficial effects not only in the preser- vation of soil but also in the agronomic performance of the crops (Ellis-Jones and Tengberg, 2000; Liniger et al., 2011). Fanya-juu terraces harvest water and prevent soil from being eroded from the slopes on which they have been established, but in doing so they also promote sil- tation and the accumulation of plant debris at lower locations, particu- larly in the dugout trenches. The lack of frequent maintenance of these constructions invariably leads to preferential accumulation of