Extension Agents Research Articles

PENDEKATAN TEKNIK KOMUNIKASI DALAM PENYULUHAN PENGGUNAAN PUPUK ORGANIK BAGI PETANI SAYURAN KANGKUNG DI KELURAHAN MATABUBU KECAMATAN POASIA KOTA KENDARI

This study aims to determine and analyze the communication techniques of extension workers in counseling the use of organic fertilizers for farmers, and to know the knowledge of farmers in the use of organic fertilizers in Matabubu Village, Poasia District, Kendari City.This research was conducted in July 2023. The population in the study will be informants, because kale farmers in Matabubu Village amounted to 7 people, as well as 1 extension agent in charge of Matabubu Village. Data collection techniques consist of observation, in-depth interviews, documentation and literature. The focus of the research includes: extension communication techniques (informative communication, persuasive communication and instructive communication), farmers' knowledge during related extension (source/content of organic fertilizer, benefits of organic fertilizer, how to make organic fertilizer and use of organic fertilizer). The analysis used in this research is qualitative descriptive analysis. The results showed that the communication techniques used consisted of informative, persuasive and instructive communication techniques that had been implemented by extension workers. As well as, farmers' knowledge in the use of organic fertilizer for kale vegetables in general have known, but the process of making organic fertilizer, farmers do not know

Presence of a Non-Pest Mite Tarsonemus confusus Ewing (Acari: Tarsonemidae), in Florida Strawberry Fields

This publication aims to benefit growers and Extension agents by increasing awareness of a fungus-feeding mite, Tarsonemus confusus, commonly found in strawberry fields. Tarsonemus confusus may be misidentified as other pest mites. In fact, without help from an expert mite taxonomist, incorrect species identification can be a major concern. Although this mite species typically does not achieve pest status on most crops, an incorrect pest identification may lead to unnecessary application of miticides, triggering a secondary pest outbreak.

The adoption of Best Management Practices: empirical evidence from oil palm farming in rural Ghana

ABSTRACT Purpose We examine how farmer characteristics, farm, institutional, perception and shock factors influence the adoption of the Best Management Practices (BMPs). A thorough understanding of how relevant drivers affect the adoption decision of diverse BMPs can contribute to the development of evidence-based policies. Approach We use a household survey of 1031 smallholder oil palm farmers in the forest zones of Ghana to assess the determinants of farmers’ adoption decisions. We employ a seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) model after a principal component analysis is used to extract five latent components. Findings Our findings indicate that different farmer characteristics, farm, institutional, perception and shock factors have differential associations with the adoption of diverse BMPs. Key among these are the positive perception of BMPs, access to mills, perception of soil fertility and pests and diseases. Practical implications Specific BMPs must be tailored to meet the prevailing individual socio-economic characteristics and challenges of farmers to facilitate their adoption and scale-up. Educational programmes and dissemination of information by extension agents and research institutions are needed in the promotion of BMPs to enhance effective uptake. Theoretical implication The paper contributes to the growing literature especially on the uptake of diverse management practices, utilizing both behavioural and socio-economic theories underpinning adoption, thus providing empirical evidence that adoption is influenced by both behavioural and socio-economic factors. Originality/value In the bid to increase agricultural productivity, while preserving ecosystem services, the adoption of sustainable management practices remains key for all stakeholders and policy makers. This paper presents credible information for policy makers in Ghana and Africa in designing polices to influence their adoptions.

External Factors Influencing the Implementation of Policy, System, and Environmental Change Strategies Within Cooperative Extension.

Introduction. Multilevel approaches are important to promote the adoption of healthier practices at the individual and community levels. Cooperative Extension pairs policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) change approaches with direct education programs focused on individual and community health. This study sought to understand Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension agents' perceptions of PSE change supports, benefits for their communities, and resources and partnerships important for implementation. Method. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used to develop a survey to assess outer setting domains related to PSE work. In addition to close-ended questions, the survey included several open-ended, qualitative questions exploring the benefits, resources, and relationships required to implement PSE changes. The surveys were collected online from FCS agents in two states. Descriptive statistics were calculated, open responses were coded, and key themes were established. Results. FCS agents (n=116) indicated high levels of agreement about having necessary support from state-level specialists (71%) and the overall Extension organization (64%). The largest gaps in support were reported as grant or external funding sources, time, and county programming funds. Half of the sample agreed that PSE training was adequate, but only 38.5% reported previously participating in PSE-specific training. Open-ended question responses revealed diverse relationships and numerous benefits of PSE work, including more sustainable health behavior changes and greater local Extension visibility. Discussion. Our findings corroborate previous work and identify potential gaps that future interventions can address to better support Extension and public health professionals when implementing PSE work at the community level.

Determinants of net value added to produced and processed paddy rice in South East, Nigeria

The study principally examined the determinants of net value added to produced and processed paddy rice in South east Nigeria It specifically, identified the socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, analyzed the determinants of net value added to produced and processed paddy rice as well as ascertained the constraints to processed and produced paddy rice. Multi-stage sampling technique involving purposive and random sampling methods was used to select 240 respondents. Primary data were collected on rain-fed production season using structured questionnaires administered to the respondents by personal interview. Descriptive statistics,, multiple regression and principal component analysis were used to analyze the data. Results obtained showed that gender distribution of the respondents was 63%males and 38% females. More respondents are between the ages of 41-50 and31-40 respectively and house hold size of 4-6 .Farming experience showed that 136 respondents representing 57% had engaged in the business between 11-20yrs.The results also showed that 67% of the respondents accessed farm credit while 25% did not.66% of the respondents belonged to farmers association while 75% were not visited by extension agents. Variables (age, gender, years in school, household size, years of experience, training/extension visits, costs incurred, value addition technique and market price) significantly influenced the net value added while marital status, membership of cooperative, and access to credit did not. Constraints to paddy producers and processors were accessibility to farm machine, poor infrastructure and scarcity/high cost of labor, low access to credit/grant; low proactive measures to flood and drought control; insufficient knowledge of agro-chemicals, and late provision of essential training and services; and processors: use of outdated rice milling machines, high cost of modern rice processing machines, low access to modern rice processing machineries and low acceptability of local rice. Recommendations include; establishment of farm machinery hiring centers for producers and supply of modern rice milling machines to rice processing clusters, development of dams and irrigable lands, training and re-training on access to fund, utilization of biodegradable wastes from paddy rice, proactive measures of flood and drainage control, adequate use of agro-chemicals, use of modem techniques, and involvement of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control in quality control. Keywords: Agriculture, Paddy Rice, Value Addition, Nigeria.

Growers, consultants, and county agents perceive white‐tailed deer to be the most economically impactful pest of Georgia cotton

Plain Language SummaryWhite‐tailed deer damage is a common occurrence for cotton producers in the Southeastern United States, but in 2023, deer feeding on cotton and other crops was abnormally high. To determine how bad the perceived white‐tailed deer problem is in cotton, producers, county extension agents, and crop consultants were surveyed. Growers, county agents, and consultants agree that white‐tailed deer are an economic pest of cotton. The same groups reported that 33% to 41% of acres are affected by deer annually, while 34% to 42% yield loss is observed on affected acres. Additionally, $51 to $73 per acre are spent on mitigation measures according to growers, county agents, and consultants in an attempt to reduce deer damage. According to these answers, all three groups perceive white‐tailed deer to be the biggest pest of cotton compared to other common, problematic pests. This paper is the first to demonstrate the severity of this issue in cotton and serves as a starting point for research on deer damage in cotton.

Effect of integrated pest management practices on the occurrence of pesticide residue in okra cultivated by farmers in Kwara state.

Integrated pest management (IPM) is a sustainable approach for minimizing the negative impacts of pests on crops while reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides. This study was conducted in Kwara State Nigeria in 2023, to investigate the effects of implementation of IPM practices on the occurrence of pesticide residues in okra cultivated by the farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria, and identify the factors affecting the use of IPM practices for pest control in okra production. A sample of 245 okra farmers was selected across 4 agricultural zones of Kwara State using a multistage sampling technique. Additionally, okra samples were collected from the farmers of each community of the local government areas. The data collected from the farmers were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics including frequency count, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and Pearson product moment correlation (PPMC). The collected okra samples were taken to the laboratory for pesticide residue extraction and analysis was performed using gas chromatography (GC)-mass spectrometer (MS). The results showed that most okra producers in Kwara State were smallholder farmers who, despite practicing IPM, had limited knowledge of the technology. Some pesticide residues were detected in okra, out of which two were present in quantities above the maximum residue limit, while others were below the maximum residue limit. Therefore, this study recommends that the government should improve extension services in the State by providing adequate funds and training extension agents who can provide comprehensive training to farmers on the types and application of IPM as an eco-friendly technology for preventing pesticide residue in okra.

DETERMINANTS OF FARMER’S PERCEPTION OF PROSTEPHANUS TRUNCATUS (HORN) DAMAGES AND LOSSES ON STORED MAIZE IN TOGO AND BENIN (WEST AFRICA)

Prostephanus truncatus is one of the most damaging post-harvest pests of stored maize in Africa. Research Institutions disseminated Various control strategies during the 1990s in West Africa with significant results. What is farmers’ perception of this pest in decades after those control strategies? This study aimed to assess determinants of farmers’ perception of current damages and losses caused by Prostephanus truncatus on stored maize in southern of the two countries (Benin and Togo). 300 maize farmers (150 from Togo and 150 from Benin) were randomly selected from 10 villages per country. Descriptive statistics were used in addition to Logit and Tobit regression analysis. The results showed that 38% of farmers (35% in Togo and 41% in Benin) still perceive Prostephanus truncatus as the most damaging pest of stored maize. Logit's results showed that factors influencing farmers’ perception of Prostephanus truncatus were group membership, contact with extension agents, and period of maize harvesting. The results from the Tobit regression model showed that factors such as the maize variety, the form of maize storage (with husk), and the storage period influence the extent of damage and loss caused by Prostephanus truncatus. Farmers still perceive Prostephanus truncatus as the main post-harvest pest causing high damage and losses on maize. It is recommended that further dissemination of maize storage technology to reduce postharvest losses.

Performance of agricultural extension agents in Indonesia: evidence from a nationally representative survey

ABSTRACT Purpose This study analyses the performance of field extension agents in Indonesia using a multi-dimensional performance indicator. Methodology The study uses data from an online survey of a nationally representative sample of 1,974 field extension agents. Binary and ordinal probit models are utilised to analyse the performance of extension agents and the factors influencing it based on a multi-dimensional measurement of performance. Findings and practical implications Improved performance is associated with increased career progression, availability of external funds, the opportunity to collaborate, involvement in government programs, implementation of disciplinary measures and a diversified use of advisory methods. To promote performance, the government should encourage and improve the institutional arrangements. Theoretical implications This study introduces a multidimensional measurement that covers timeliness, targeting and content dimensions while capturing both the institutional arrangement and demographic characteristics in explaining performance. Originality/value This study introduces an online survey for extension agents that encompasses a nationally representative sample, thereby demonstrating this cost effective approach designed for rapid data collection and facilitating the measurement of performance during unforeseen events, such as the Covid-19 pandemic. Its broad applicability allows for a thorough analysis of agricultural extension agents’ performance in a variety of contexts.

ASSESSMENT OF COMMUNICATION STRATEGIES AND FACTORS LEADING TO DISCONTINUED UTILIZATION OF BIO-FORTIFIED MAIZE IN OYO AND ONDO STATES, NIGERIA

The study assessed the communication strategies and factors leading to the discontinued utilization of bio-fortified maize among selected value-chain actors in Oyo and Ondo States, Nigeria. Information was collected from 320 value chain actors on the sources of information on bio-fortified maize, factors affecting its utilization, and factors leading to its discontinued adoption. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, tables, means, and standard deviations, with hypothesis tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). Results revealed that 34.1% of respondents received information on yellow maize most frequently through extension agents, 33.0% often through friends/relatives, and 35.3% often through family members. Key factors affecting the utilization of yellow maize included the value chain actors’ experiences (mean = 1.70), market availability (mean = 1.66), and economic benefits (mean = 1.54). Additionally, 57.5% of respondents discontinued utilizing yellow maize due to low distribution of seeds by ADP extension agents, 51.9% due to exploitation by middlemen, and 51.0% due to poor market infrastructure. A significant relationship was found between factors affecting utilization and those leading to the discontinuation of yellow maize (r = 0.364, p ≤ 0.01). The study concluded that value chain actors have access to extension services and receive information on yellow maize through multiple sources, including extension agents, friends/relatives, newspapers, drama, and bulletins/handbills. However, challenges such as low seed distribution, middlemen exploitation, and poor market infrastructure persist. It is recommended that extension agents and other stakeholders address these factors to promote the sustained adoption and utilization of bio-fortified maize among value-chain actors.

Rice Post-harvest Value Addition Agricultural Extension Training Model for Smallholder Farmers and Extension Agents in the Southern Region of Sierra Leone

A study was conducted to develop an agricultural training model for smallholder farmers and extension agents (farming actors) in rice post-harvest value addition in the Southern region of Sierra Leone. The study sought to identify the training needs and competencies of the farming actors in rice post-harvest value addition with a vision to identify their required training contents. Three ethical issues that guided the conduct of the study include informed consent, anonymity, and confidentiality since the study dealt with human participants. A multi-stage random sampling technique was employed to select 400 smallholder farmers from 157,114 households by the use of Yamane's formula. A census of 50 extension agents operating in the region was also done. The training model development was aided by undertaking a training needs assessment. The model is largely a synthesis of the study objectives of the rice post-harvest value addition study. The assessment revealed that farming actors have limited resources, low-value addition competencies, imperfect market situation, inadequate extension services, low profit margin, low livelihood, peasant farming, and low motivation for extension agents. The study further reveals low competency levels for the farming actors. The key expressed training needs of the farming actors include milling, packaging and marketing, and storage of rice whilst the majority preferred group training methods in rice post-harvest value addition. For effective training, the study further shows that training support such as subject matter specialists, input suppliers, service providers, and infrastructure, among others, are to be provided. The study also provided a dynamic extension model as an alternative option to the generic type since farming situations are constantly changing. This dynamic model ensures that as the context issues change, there is a need for the farming actors to respond to those changes. It is therefore recommended that regular needs assessment, provision of support services, and monitoring of training actors must be done for full utilisation of the proposed model.

Production and management practices and technologies used for growing potatoes and tomatoes

Purpose. The aim of this study was to assess production and management practices and technologies used by farmers for tomato and potato production, as well as their productivity. Methodology / approach. This research was conducted in Ziway-Dugda and Tiyo districts of Arsi Zone in Oromia National Regional State of Ethiopia during 2022 cropping season. Data were collected from 400 households in 10 kebeles (local administrative unit) of both districts using Kobo toolbox from respondents through face-to-face interview and descriptive analysis using SPSS version 22. Results. The results of the study showed that farmers in the study areas used different pre-harvest practices. These include cultivation tools and methods, planting locations, tomato staking, potato hilling and irrigation practices to successfully grow vegetables and increase land productivity by rotating different crops on their land. Various diseases, weeds and insects have been observed on their farms, which were managed by cultural, agronomic, mechanical and chemical management practices on tomato and potato farms during the last cropping years in the study districts. Thus, majority farmers in the study areas have used insecticides and fungicides on tomato and potato farms; but most of the weeds were removed by hand weeding. Most tomato and potato farmers have determined the type of chemical and its use from their own previous experience, in consultation with salespeople and extension agents in their regions. However, the study results showed that there are unused production and management practices for tomato and potato cultivation by some farmers. There are many production and management practices and technologies used by farmers to improve vegetable productivity in the study areas, although some farmers did not adopt improved production and management technologies, resulting in reduced production, which requires future interventions to increase their capacity through training and technology adoption. Originality / scientific novelty. This study stands out in the field of production and management practices and technologies used by smallholder tomato and potato producers due to its innovative approach and unique contribution to existing knowledge and skills. While previous studies have examined the relationship between production and management practices and technologies in an agricultural context, particularly focusing on state farms, our study focuses on small-scale tomato and potato producers. Through our thorough case study research and interview structure, we not only deepened our understanding of production and management practices in the agricultural sector, but also provided practical recommendations for improving the efficiency and sustainability of small-scale tomato and potato producers on different farms/fields. Practical value / implications. The findings of this study can be used to develop recommendations for policy makers and researchers on how to improve labour productivity in the future Thus, the policy focuses on developing strategies for producers to adopt modern production and management practices and technologies, raising farmers’ awareness of available technologies, improving management practices and increasing crop productivity in the study area.

Knowledge And Utilization Of Market-Oriented Agricultural Extension Service Among Farmers In Oyo State, Nigeria

Market-oriented agricultural extension services (MOAES) are pivotal in transforming subsistence farming into a profitable and sustainable venture, thereby reducing rural poverty. This study investigates the knowledge and utilization of market-oriented agricultural extension services among farmers in Oyo State, Nigeria. The study employs a two-stage cluster sampling technique to select 106 farmers from four agricultural zones in Oyo State. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and interview schedules on knowledge, accessibility, utilization, and satisfaction with MOAES provided. The public extension (61.6%) was the primary provider of market-oriented agricultural extension services, with low knowledge and satisfaction. Utilization of the services on types of crops to grow, food safety standards, and sourcing of farm inputs were moderate. Overall utilization of MOAES by 55.7% of the farmers was low. Constraints were poor linkage (x̅=1.90), limited access to credit for input purchases (x̅=1.84), and inadequate price information for various inputs (x̅=1.68). Significant relationships existed between farmers sex (X2=3.259), marital status (X2=0.186), educational level of MOAES (X2=8.055). Strengthening the capacity of extension agents and focusing on value addition are recommended.

Crop Production and Pesticide Use: Has Ghana Overlooked the Obvious on Health?

Vegetables and cereals, besides health benefits, are of significant socio-economic importance in Ghana, because, the whole production process provides employment for both rural and urban dwellers. Unfortunately, the high prevalence of pests (weeds inclusive) and disease complexes, associated with them, inflict significant economic damage on field and storage, if not properly managed. This review purposed to document challenges from pesticide use and suggest perspective recommendations for mitigation. Information was sourced from published journal articles, technical and annual reports (Research Extension Farmer Linkage Committee (RELC), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, Ghana), and Institutions), the authors’ observations and personal communication with farmers, agricultural extension agents and other experts. The review analysis indicated over 80% of farmers use pesticides, particularly on high-value cash vegetable and cereal crops; and also to alleviate human labour constraints. Challenges such as pesticide resistance, increasing incidence of existing pests and diseases, or the manifestation of new pests and diseases due to climate change or continuous cropping among others were evident, prompting shifts to increased pesticide use for management and also for desired profit. Highlights on concerns for the insatiable quest for pests and disease control by chemical means, consequently increased reports on dangers of continuous pesticide use on human and public health, the environment and the economy. This research revealed that a minimal understanding of the use and application of pesticides contributed to the non-intended effects on health and the environment. Hopefully, the identified gaps and recommendations if properly addressed by policy would significantly enhance quality production systems for global trade and protect local consumers. State the contribution of this study to scholarship. Keywords: Vegetable Crop Production, Pesticide Use, Contamination, Pesticide Residue, Public Health

What's the beef with gene editing? An investigation of factors influencing U.S. consumers’ acceptance of beef from gene-edited cattle

Gene-editing technology provides promising opportunities for livestock industries by enabling precise genetic modifications that enhance desirable traits such as increased disease resistance, heat tolerance, and nutritional quality. With gene-edited beef products entering the market soon, understanding consumers’ acceptance is critical. Using structural equation modeling, the study aimed to determine how key psychological and social factors influence U.S. consumers’ attitudes toward gene editing and their behavioral intentions toward ground beef from gene-edited cattle. Results indicate that knowledge, subjective social norms, and perceived benefits positively influenced attitudes, while perceived risks and food technology neophobia negatively influenced attitudes. Subjective social norms, perceived benefits, and attitudes positively influenced behavioral intentions, while perceived risks and food technology neophobia negatively influenced intentions. Attitudes acted as a partial mediator, significantly mediating the effects of subjective social norms, perceived benefits, perceived risks, and food technology neophobia on behavioral intentions. Improving consumers’ behavioral intentions toward ground beef from gene-edited cattle hinges on cultivating more favorable attitudes toward the technology. Thus, collaborative efforts by scientists, producers, policymakers, extension agents, and agricultural communicators should seek to increase consumers’ perceived benefits and improve subjective social norms, as these factors were most influential.

Growth and Development Stages of Four Japanese Persimmon Varieties in North Florida

Japanese persimmon (Diospyros kaki) are a good source of vitamins A and C and dietary fiber, while also being low in calories and fat. These fruits are popular in many Asian cuisines and are enjoyed in various ways, including fresh, dried, or cooked in multiple value-added products. This publication will provide information on persimmon phenological growth stages of four established varieties grown at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center in Quincy, Florida. The nine major persimmon growth stages are divided into two categories: vegetative and reproductive stages. This publication provides illustrative figures for each development stage. Accurate identification of phenological stages is important for making informed decisions on plant care, fertilizer, irrigation, and fruit harvesting. This information will be helpful to students, growers, homeowners, nursery workers, and Extension agents interested in growing persimmons in Florida.

IMPACTS OF FLOODING AND THE COPING STRATEGIES AMONG THE ARTISANAL FISHERS COMMUNITY IN KOTON KARFE LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA KOGI STATE, NIGERIA

The study investigated the impacts of flooding and the coping strategies among the artisanal fishers community in Koton Karfe Local Government area Kogi State, Nigeria. Multi stage random sampling technique was used to obtain data from the respondents. The first stage involved random sampling of three major fishing communities in the study area (Akpasu, Chikara North and Chikara), the next stage involved random selection of forty (40) artisanal fishers from each of the three fishing communities to obtain a total sample size of one hundred and twenty respondents (120), structured questionnaire were administered to the respondents. Data obtained were analyzed through frequency counts and percentages (descriptive) and Chi square (inferential) statistics. Majority (60.1%) of the respondents were male, 47% are between 26-30 years, 47.7% were single, 37.6% had Senior School Certificate, 37.6% have house hold size of 5-10 persons with 35.9% fishing experience of 6-10 years and 43.4% earned between #5,000 to #10,000 per week. Flood impacted household livelihood through reduction in income (49.1%). Significant relationship existed between gender, age, marital status, income and coping strategies among the artisanal fishers. The study concluded that artisanal fishers’ income reduced whenever there is flooding while migration to other fishing areas was the major coping strategy. The study recommended that the Government through the Extension agents and Fisheries Officers should provide platform for capacity building for the artisanal fishers on various coping strategies during flood.

Agricultural extension agents’ perception of work-life balance in Kwara State, Nigeria

Agricultural extension agents’ perception of work-life balance in Kwara State, Nigeria

Adult Teaching Practices of Exemplary Extension Agents

Adult Teaching Practices of Exemplary Extension Agents

Centrality of Information Sources in Agricultural Input Networks: Insights from Social Network Analysis

Input dealers being credible localite sources of information for farmers have huge potential of aiding faster diffusion of innovations. Under this context, understanding how the input dealers’ access and exchange information is essential for enriching them with updated information and improving the agricultural value chain. This study employs Social Network Analysis (SNA) to explore the centrality measures—degree centrality, closeness centrality, and betweenness centrality—of various information sources utilized by input dealers in Nagar Kurnool and Wanaparthy districts of Telangana during 2020. The analysis reveals that traditional sources, such as extension agents and other input dealers, are highly central to the network, with both scoring the highest in degree and closeness centrality (0.733 and 0.698, respectively). These sources are not only frequently accessed but also serve as key bridges within the network, facilitating the flow of information. Digital platforms like smartphones show growing importance, with significant degree centrality (0.667), yet they play a less critical bridging role. In contrast, social media and print media exhibit lower centrality scores, indicating their peripheral influence. The findings suggest that while traditional information sources remain dominant, digital platforms are emerging as valuable tools for information dissemination highlighting the need for strategies that strengthen traditional channels while integrating digital tools to enhance the efficiency and reach of agricultural information networks. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex information ecosystem in agriculture, offering insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to optimize information flows within the sector.