GIS and Remote Sensing-Driven Physical Land Suitability Analysis for Optimal Teff Crop Production: A Case Study of Mieso District, West Hararghe Zone, Ethiopia

This research investigates the physical land suitability for teff (Eragrostis tef) cultivation in Mieso District, Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia, using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) techniques. Teff is a staple crop of major economic and food security importance in Ethiopia; however, its productivity is strongly influenced by variations in environmental and agro-ecological conditions. Therefore, identifying suitable land for teff cultivation is essential for sustainable agricultural planning and improved crop yields. The study integrates multiple biophysical factors that significantly affect teff growth, including soil type, altitude, slope, rainfall, and temperature. Spatial datasets were collected from satellite imagery, digital elevation models, soil databases, and meteorological records. These datasets were processed and analyzed using GIS tools. A multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach, specifically a weighted overlay analysis, was applied to evaluate and classify land suitability based on the relative importance of each factor. The results indicate that areas characterized by gentle slopes, favorable elevations, nutrient-rich soils, and suitable climatic conditions exhibit high to moderate suitability for teff cultivation. In particular, regions receiving annual rainfall between 800 and 1200 mm and experiencing moderate temperatures were identified as the most suitable zones. Conversely, areas with steep slopes, poor soil conditions, or unfavorable climatic characteristics were classified as marginally suitable or unsuitable. The findings demonstrate a strong relationship between agro-ecological conditions and teff productivity in the study area. This research provides valuable spatial information that can support farmers, planners, and policymakers in optimizing land use decisions. Ultimately, the study contributes to enhancing agricultural productivity, promoting sustainable land management, and strengthening food security in the Mieso District and similar agro-ecological settings.