Evaluating Productive Capacity of Irrigated and Non-Irrigated Farming: A Panacea for Sustainable Rice Production in Patigi, Nigeria
Evaluating Productive Capacity of Irrigated and Non-Irrigated Farming: A Panacea for Sustainable Rice Production in Patigi, Nigeria
Abiodun D. Olabode
ABSTRACT
Rice, a staple food in Nigeria is experiencing decrease in yield over the years. This study evaluates the productive capacity of some selected rice farms in Kwara State, Nigeria, with a view to identify farm management practices that enhance sustainable production of rice in the study area. Primary data were obtained through the use interview schedule. Eighty copies of structured interview were purposively employed to obtain individual response of the farmers whose plots fall within the demarcated forty-sampled quadrats from both irrigated and non-irrigated farms. Information on socio-economic activities of the rice farmers, level of rice yield, agricultural practices for rice production and farm management techniques employed in the study area were observed. The study employed simple percentages to analyse the farmers’ responses; while regression model established significant relationships between rice yield and farm management methods adopted in this area. Results were presented using charts and tables. The study revealed that; chemical fertilizers, manual weeding and shifting cultivation are essential for rice cultivation in the study area; the regression model established strong influence of farm-size at R-value of 0.64 on the yield of rice in this area; while estimated yields of 101.6tons and 57.9tons from irrigated and non-irrigated field respectively established higher yield from irrigation practice. The study concludes that irrigation system is a catalyst for appreciable rice yield in this area. However, proper application of fertilizer and expansion of existing farmland should be adopted among the rice farmers in the study area and other related environment.
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