ECONOMIC ANALYSIS OF RODENTICIDEUSE AMONG MAIZE-CASSAVA FARMERS IN KWARA STATE, NIGERIA

Rodents are an age long challenge which damage agricultural productivity especially on arable crop production. Various methods have been used by farmers to control this pest. This study therefore examines the various methods used among maize-cassava based enterprises in Kwara State, Nigeria. Data were collected from 120 respondents randomly, selected from ten villages in Agricultural Development Project Zone D of the state with the use of a structured questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Logit regression model and Net Farm Income were the analytical tools employed to analyze the data collected. Results of analysis revealed that Household size, Farm size, Education, Extension contact, Farming experience, Access to credit and Knowledge of rodent pest control are the major determinants of rodenticide usage in the study area. The results also revealed that farmers using cultural, rodenticide and combination of  both methods (cultural + rodenticides) to control rodents on their farm had an average Net Farm Income of N 38,462.73,  N 62,371.76 and N 85, 099.41 per hectare respectively. The study therefore recommended that adult education programmes should be organized for farmers in the rural areas to enhance their adoption of improved technologies. More extension agents should be employed by government and the private sectors and made available in order to reach farmers and educate them about new and available technologies. The need for extension services and NGO’s to raise awareness on the various form of pest control is also recommended.