Zambia Philately: 1972 Conservation Year (2nd Issue) – 4n Soil Conservation

In pre-independence times, a considerable commitment and effort was invested in soil conservation. Conservation works were constructed on arable lands in both reserves and state lands. Most of the cultivated fields were contoured, and storm drains, windbreaks, banks or terraces etc. were common. Catchment plans were operated and implemented. Good land management advice was given to farmers. In the early 1950s, Intensive Conservation Areas were set up as conservation committees amongst the farming community (albeit the larger farmers only).

However, a number of things changed post-independence. The economy has become more monetised and farmers responded to those activities which produce direct economic benefits — often at the expense of conservation.