Impact of farmer field schools on adoption of integrated pest management practices among cotton farmers in Pakistan

Abstract

In Pakistan, farmer field schools (FFS) are enhancing skills of cotton farmers to adopt integrated pest management (IPM) practices for effective control of pests. To evaluate the impact of FFS on IPM practices, the present study was carried out in the Punjab province of Pakistan. A cross sectional data set of 325 cotton farmers was collected to estimate the impact of farmer field schools on the adoption of IPM practices as well as cotton yield and pesticide demand. A propensity score-matching (PSM) approach was employed to correct for selectivity bias. The results indicate that FFS participants have a higher knowledge level about IPM practices, compared to non-participants. Moreover, the results indicate positive and significant impact of FFS on the adoption of IPM practices, cotton yields and efficient pest management.