Financial viability of soil and water conservation technologies in northwestern Ethiopian highlands

► Agro-economic surveys were undertaken in two watersheds in Ethiopian highlands. ► Model estimates show that soil erosion rates on unprotected fields are very high. ► Farmers believe that the three types of bunds are effective in controlling erosion. ► A Cost-Benefit Analysis shows that bunds are profitable under standard conditions. ► A sensitivity analysis indicates that viability depends heavily on the assumptions.