Abstract: This study was aimed to assess soil degradation and conservation practices in Darimu and Chewaka Woredas of Illu Ababora Zone. Through purposive and simple random sampling methods a total of 331 respondents were selected from the woredas. To achieve the objectives of the study both qualitative and quantitative methods of data analysis were used. Descriptive statistics such as percentage distribution, bar graphs, charts, tables were used and more of qualitative analysis was used. According to the major findings of the study, the major factors that exposed the area for soil erosion was topography, land use/ cover change, continuous farming without fallowing, population pressure, attitude and perception of farmers, knowledge and use of soil conservation practices. The survey result reveals that there are various indigenous and adopted soil conservation practices in the area. Among these, fallowing, manure, contour plowing, crop rotation, waterways are indigenous soil conservation practices and terracing, soil bund, fugn juu, grass strip, chomo grass and elephant grass are some of the adopted soil conservation practices. The result of the study also reveals that the major challenges of adopting structural soil conservation mechanisms in the area includes; geographical aspect, land tenure, educational level, farmer access to extension services, sex of the household, awareness of farmers about soil conservation methods and off farm activities. Finally, suggestions have been forwarded based on the findings of the study.