Climate Change and Adaptation Strategies of Arable Crop Farmers In Abia State, Nigeria.

Abstract

Jackson, S.O, Weli V.E & Chukwu-Okeah, G.O

This study was set up to examine climate change and adaptation strategies of arable crop farmers in Abia State. The study adopted the cross-sectional research design with a sample population of 392 farmers across the seventeen Local Government Areas of Abia State. Chi Square statistics was used to test the study hypothesis. The study revealed that Climate change impact on arable crops is affecting farmer’s economy in Abia State. Evidences of climate change in the area, could be seen in the form of increase in temperature, change in rainfall pattern and intensity which has brought about a change in planting seasons, the study further revealed that The techniques/strategies adopted by arable crop famers in Abia State include cultivation of early maturing breeds of arable crop, crop diversification, changes in time of farm operation, change of farm location, rain water harvesting, diversification of income-generating activities and planting of drought-resistant varieties. The most predominant adaptation strategies practiced by arable crop farmers in Abia State are cultivation of early maturing breeds of arable crops, crop diversification and changes in time of farm operation and that there was seasonal variation in the choice of adaptation strategy adopted by farmers. The study however recommends that climate change impacts on arable crops as such agricultural activities that enhance climate change such as bush burning, total forest clearing should be discouraged. There is a need to adopt agro based environ- mental friendly techniques in crop production such as alley farming and that farmers should be encouraged to adopt the identified effective adaptation technique that are practicable for their location.

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