ASSESSMENT OF FARMERS’ INVOLVEMENT IN AGROFORESTRY PRACTICES IN DUTSINMA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

Various combinations of two or three elements of arable crops, woody perennials, animal husbandry, fish farming, beekeeping, and silkworm farming are included in agroforestry operations. The main factors influencing farmers’ involvement in agroforestry techniques in Katsina State, Nigeria's Dutsinma Local Government Area were assessed in this study. The selection of responders was done using a multistage sampling technique. One hundred local farmers were chosen, and information was gathered from them using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistical techniques such as the frequencies, percentages, Chi-square, and Likert scale rating using arithmetic mean were respectively used to analyse the data. Sokoto-rima (8) and Gidankyari (8) practiced all the observed predominant agroforestry practices followed by Shema (7), Gidan islamiya (7) and Isa-kiata (7). The farmers’ participation level in the agroforestry practices presented had highest mean value of 1.90 as the maximum threshold level across the selected villages. There was no significant difference in the association between agrosilvopastoral systems and the demographic characteristics of the respondents. Farmers prefer to raise animals, plant trees, and grow arable crops. The conclusion reached was that the main obstacles to farmers' involvement in agroforestry methods are lack of knowledge and lack of funding. In order to increase farmers' involvement in agroforestry practices in the research region, it is advised that awareness of the advantages of agroforestry techniques be raised.