Farmers’ Awareness, Preference and Adoption of Soil Conservation Practices in Zing Local Government Area of Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the awareness, preference and adoption of soil conservation practices among farmers in Zing Local Government Area of Taraba State. A multistage purposive and random sampling technique was used in selecting the respondents used for the study. A total of 50 farmers were selected from five farming communities (10 farmers in each in Lamma, Monkin, Bitako, Zing A and Zing B). The result indicated most of the farmers (80%) practice conservation techniques. 10%, 4% and 6% of the respondents are aware of the practice but never practiced it, not aware and have practiced but given up, respectively. Reasons for the practice of soil conservation techniques included immediate monetary gain (100%) and prevention of erosion (96%). Other reasons include 78%, 76%, 66%, 58% and 40%  improving soil fertility (78%), preventing erosion (76%), reducing heat stress (66%), and ensuring long term sustainability of land (58%)  and advice of extension agent (40%). 48% indicated that they are just doing what other farmers are doing. Farmers are aware of soil conservation practices and many are practicing various types.

Keywords: Awareness, Preference, Adoption, Soil Conservation practices