Assessment of agroforestry system for restoring ecosystem services In Jere Local Government Area, Borno State, Nigeria

Abstract

The research assessed agroforestry systems as a tool for restoring ecosystem services in Jere local Government Area of Borno State. Four out of 12 district were purposively selected based on the practice of Agroforestry in the area which includes Alau, Gonglung, Old Maiduguri and Zabarmari. Three villages were randomly selected from each district and 15 respondents were selected from each village randomly, given a total of 180 respondents. Data were collected through the use of structured questionnaire. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that most of the farmers were within 31-40 years. Majority (82.8%) of the respondents were male and married (64.4%). Most (36.1%) has attained Quranic education with 6.1% without any form of education. Majority (80.6%) of the farmers had no contact with extension agents. Result further shows that 38.3% got idea on agroforestry system through their parents and 34.4% practiced dispersed tree on cropland. Majority (69.4%) used tree in their farm for the provision of fruits and food. Majority (51.7%) of the respondents stated the use of agroforestry practice helped in restoration through enrichment planting. It also helped for biodiversity management through provision of fauna and flora. Awareness campaign was suggested by the respondents as an effective action to be taken for restoration strategy. It was concluded that agroforestry helped in restoration and biodiversity management. It is therefore recommended that awareness should be emphasized more by government, NGOs and extension agencies.