This Manual has been put together with the objective of assisting actions by the diverse groups of human beings who intervene in the conservation of the natural resources, particularly soil and water resources and in the context of each continent, country, region or zone.

The Manual brings together a collection of concepts, experiences and practical suggestions that can be of immediate use for identifying problems and for formulating, executing and evaluating actions so as to benefit and to improve the productivity and conservation of soil and water resources. This Manual is based on the Training Course for Soil Management and Conservation, focused particularly on efficient tillage methods for soil conservation, held at the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) in Ibadan, Nigeria from 21 April to 1 May 1997. It was jointly organized by IITA and FAO with the participation of specialists from both national and international organizations.

The publication serves as a guide that will allow technicians and farmers to jointly discover ways to solve the problems and the limitations posed by land degradation in Latin America and Africa. Participatory action by technicians and farmers will be the basis for success in benefiting these regions. It is hoped that the Manual will help to attain the ultimate objective, which is to improve the productivity of the soils and water in a rapid and efficient manner.