Adoption of Agro-Forestry among Farmers in Onigambari area of Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out in the Onigambari area of Oyo state to determine the choice of farmers to practice Ago-forestry in the area. The χ² test result revealed that the educational level of the respondents correlated highly with the respondents major occupation (p<0.01). χ² test shows that there was significant relationship (p<0.01) between the respondents’ level of education and awareness of agroforestry systems. This shows that farmers with a better educational background can accept agro forestry easily than those will lower education. Farmers’ awareness of Agroforestry systems, willingness to plant trees, purpose of planting trees and desired tree species were evaluated. It was observed that 74% of the respondents are not willing to practice agroforestry while 24% shows interest. 64% confirmed they are aware of the practice while 32% had never heard of such practice. The t-test result shows a significant difference with respect to the willingness of the respondents to practice agroforestry. Of those that are
aware, 38% practice agroforestry for the purpose of fuel wood, 36% as source of income while only 2% practice for the purpose of wind breaking. Eucalyptus calmuldulensis, Magnifera indica, Gmelina aboreal are some of the tress used for this practice in the study area. Lack of seed and scarcity of land were identified as limiting factors that prevent farmers from practicing agroforestry. In summary it was observed that the respondent’s level of education correlated significantly to the level of education, also the level of education determines respondent’s willingness to practice  agroforestry. It is recommended that Seeds, Seedlings and land be made available to encourage the practice among farmers. Extension workers are encouraged to engage farmers more on the benefits of agroforestry.

Keyword: Farmers, Agroforestry, Climate change, Land degradation, Natural Fallow