Perceived Effect of Bush Burning on Agricultural Farmland in Oluyole Local Government, Ibadan, Oyo State. Nigeria

Abstract

The practice of bush burning poses significant harm to agricultural land. The investigation examined the perceived effects of bush burning on agricultural land within the Oluyole local government area of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, this study adopted simple random technique to engaging a sample of one hundred (100) farmers. The data were analysed using percentage, mean and standard deviation. The survey findings revealed that males made up 62.0% of the participants, whereas females accounted for 38.0%. Furthermore, 40.0% of the participants were aged 35 years and above. The findings show that a substantial majority of farmers are married, accounting for 71.0%, and it was also found that a noteworthy portion, 40.0%, of farmers possesses literacy skills. The influence of bush burning on agricultural crops contributes to the control of pests and diseases. Promoting bush fallowing is considered essential to reduce the effects of bush fires, as it enhances the sustainability of cultivated crops. The findings demonstrate a notable connection between the socio-economic traits of farmers and their perceptions regarding the impacts of bush burning on agricultural crops. Therefore, it is advisable for agricultural extension agents to inform, assist, and enable farmers in adopting the best cultivation practices to reduce the effects of these activities on their farms.

Keywords

• Agriculture; bush burning; farmers; farmland; control pest and diseases