Economic effect of flooding on the production of cassava among small holder farmers in Bayelsa state, Nigeria

Abstract

This study analyzed the economic impact of flooding on cassava production among smallholder farmers in Bayelsa State, Nigeria. The study sampled 108 cassava farmers using multistage sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that farmers were predominantly female (69.4 %), average age 44 years, mean education of 8 years and mean experience of 13 years. The total cost of production was $338 hectare-1 in flooded year and $222 hectare-1 in non-flooded year. Labor accounted for 76 % and 70 % of total costs in flooded and non-flooded year respectively.  Flood was significant at p < 0.01 while farming experience, farm size, and membership of association were significant at p < 0.05 on net farm income. Flooding posed significant problems, including, low cassava production (MS = 3.22), spoilage (MS = 3.68), scarcity of planting materials (MS =3.74), and loss of properties (MS = 3.80). Planting early maturing varieties (90.6 %), planting early (94.1 %) and storage facilities (89.4 %) were the coping strategies adopted by farmers in the area. The study suggests the need to provide affordable insurance programs for farmers and increase extension visits to educate farmers on coping strategies.