International Journal of Agricultural Research, Innovation and Technology

6-13

Authors: Nesibu Yahya, Abdu Abdelkadir, Busha Teshome, Mister Abebe, Habtemariam Kassa

Despite their ecological and socio-economic contributions, the lowland dry forests of Ethiopia have largely been neglected and hence experience severe deforestation and degradation challenges. It is, therefore, crucial to assess the status of the dry forest resources to formulate appropriate management strategies that facilitate their sustainable utilization. This study was undertaken to determine spatial distribution, species composition, structure, and regeneration of gum and resin-producing species in the dry forests of the Somali Regional State of Ethiopia. The recent Sentinel-2A image was procured and used to classify the area, using a supervised Random Forest Algorithm, into different land covers and vegetation types. Inside the two key vegetation types (Acacia dominated woodland and Mixed woodland), forest inventory was conducted by establishing 30 m x 30 m size quadratic sample plots. The results revealed that the study area was divided into settlement (0.2%), bare land (6.0%), undifferentiated forest (0.5%), acacia woodland (36.3%), mixed woodland (54.1%) and scrubland (2.9%). Thirty-four woody species were identified and recorded with a Shannon diversity of 3.03. The population structure showed a lack of sufficient natural regeneration. This shows that the forest containing the gum and resin-bearing species is not replacing itself as well as it should. On the other hand, if managed properly, the forest has the potential to produce various types of oleo-gum resins. Thus, implementing appropriate restoration measures is urgent to enhance natural regeneration. Moreover, formulating sustainable utilization while creating a product market of gum and resins are important consideration to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of dry forests in the region.

22-30

Authors: Amanuel Afeto, Kefyalew Kassa, Tesfaye Belay, Abiy Gebremchael

Ethiopia has favorable climate conditions for the production of spices, herbs, aromatic and medicinal plants useful for flavoring food, aroma, therapeutic and marketing for cash income. Ethiopian is the largest consumer of spices in Africa, but the contribution of spice to the national economy is meager. The study area is endowed with diversified spice types with different purposes. However, it is not well announced, attention is not given and still many spices are growing in the wild. However, it is not well announced, attention is not given, and many spices are still collected from the wild. This study aimed to assess spice production and marketing in Kaffa biosphere reserve. This study was undertaken in four districts of Kaffa zone including Tello, Gimbo, Shishoende and Decha districts by selecting one representative kebele from each district. The data collection method used for this study is a household survey, key informant interviews and focus group discussion. Out of the total sampled 89% of sampled households participate and produce diversified types of spice. Korarima, red pepper, rue, ginger, turmeric, bush tea, holey basil, machewolago, aemacho nechamacho, coriander, rosemary, onion, long pepper and lemon grass were identified at the household survey. About 60.9% of the sample households provide spice products to market and the sample households generate a mean income of 1,611.14 ETB from spice product marketing. Most sampled households ranked themselves at low and very low knowledge levels on spice production and marketing. Spices are mainly produced in the home garden area for consumption. The main challenges for spice production in the study area are the unavailability of improved variety, low attention given by government and stakeholders, unavailability of the market, lack of knowledge and skill on production and post-harvest handling, low-value addition practice and unavailability of recommended practice. Creating a market for spice products and promotion is needed its importance and give attention to spice production. Training is needed for the farming community on spice cultivation, management, post-harvest handling and processing.

41-48

Authors: Md. Imrul Kaysar, Md. Shofiqul Islam, Mohammad Shamsul Hoq, Sultana Parvin Mukta, A K M Golam Kausar

Bangladesh has immense potential for cut flower production and export to the world market. Although the export earnings from cut flower cultivation are gradually increasing in our country, production and profitability are hindered by some constraints. The present study was undertaken in Jashore (Jhikargachha) and Dhaka (Savar) districts to examine the financial profitability, constraints, and opportunities of cut-flower cultivation in Bangladesh. A total of 120 cut flower cultivating farmers were selected for interview in 2019, taking 60 sample farmers from each location. Multi-stage random sampling method was followed to collect primary data. For profitability analysis, two cut flowers, namely gladiolus and rose, were selected for the study. The result indicates that per hectare total cost, net return, and benefit-cost ratio (BCR) were Tk. 687439, Tk. 261509 and 1.38, respectively, for gladiolus cultivation. On the other hand, net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), and BCR of rose cultivation were Tk. 2325762, 146%, and 1.46, respectively, indicating that rose production is highly profitable to the farmers of the study areas. Despite such potentialities, cut flower cultivation was constrained by the requirement of high initial investment, lack of modern varieties, lack of credit facility, lack of storage facility, attack by pests & diseases, and uncertain market price. However, there is a huge scope to increase cut flower production by removing constraints in Bangladesh that can boost up livelihoods, incomes, and living conditions of rural people.

55-63

Authors: Gizaw Wegayehu Tilahun, Tamirat Negash Gure

The study sought to ascertain spider mite prevalence, infestation, and identification and to assess the response of potato genotypes. In 2022, this pest was only observed on some genotypes in December. In late January, an infestation, incidence, and severity increased from 10 to 13 genotypes on potato tuber stocks stored for irrigation experiments. Those genotypes were planted in irrigated fields, and the sprouted tuber losses ranged from 12.5% to 100% and up to 15.38% in the 2022 and 2023 records, respectively. Following this, spider mites, often known as two-spotted spider mites (TSSM) or Tetranychus urticae, were identified. This is the first time a potato sprout infestation has been recorded in Ethiopia. The two-spotted spider mites damaged the tubers quantitatively by sucking the moisture of sprouts up to the 5th grade, with 97 and >75% infestation levels, incidence, and severity, respectively. The pest grows very rapidly and hastens the drying of sprouted tuber leaves. Some genotypes were resistant to TSSM and recovered after the sprouts were infected and dried, which were treated with pesticides in 2023. The typical agricultural insecticides were ineffective in controlling the pest in the first year, and a Profenofos was applied in the second year. Thus, seed tubers are the main production limit unless appropriate research efforts are undertaken and management techniques are created.

70-78

Authors: Pradip Hajong, Shimul Mondal, Md. Ariful Islam, Anup Ghosh

The study was undertaken to assess the input used pattern and profitability of maize in selected intensive maize-growing areas of Bangladesh from February to July 2019. The present study was conducted in four districts viz. Chuadanga, Jhenaidah, Meherpur and Kushtia were located at AEZ-11, an intensive maize-growing area. In this study, 160 farmers were selected, of which 40 from each district were randomly selected for data collection. The average farm size was 0.64 ha, whereas the maize cultivated area was 0.34 ha. It was observed that maize was cultivated from November to December in the study area. The average per hectare seed required was 20 kg ha-1 and the fertilizer requirement was 1532 kg ha-1. The average labor required was 275 man-days in a season due to less use of technology. Total production cost was Tk. 162047 ha-1, in which variable cost was Tk. 101066 ha-1 (62%) and the fixed cost was Tk. 60980 ha-1 (38%). The price of the main maize grain at Farmgate was Tk. 18 kg-1. The gross margin was Tk.1 91962 ha-1 and the net margin was Tk. 40515 ha-1 average. The benefit-cost ratio on a cash-cost basis was 1.90 and on a total-cost basis was 1.18, meaning maize cultivation was profitable. Land preparation, seed, organic manure, TSP, Urea, MoP, DAP, Gypsum, Zinc and Boron had a positive influence on maize production. The high price of fertilizer and seed was the main problem farmers faced and due to high demand, there were no marketing problems. Though it had some problems, maize cultivation overall was a profitable crop.

6-14

Authors: Alhassan Osman, Yunus Abdul Aziz, Kwame Owusu Amoah, Emmanuel Lartey Kwame Osafo, Victoria Attoh-Kotoku and Prince Sasu

This study aimed to determine the growth performance, nutrient digestibility and carcass characteristics of grower rabbits fed diets containing graded Bambusa vulgaris leaf meal (BVLM) levels. Thirty rabbits weighing an average of 999 g were allocated in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) to five treatments (BVLM 0%, which was the control diet, BVLM 5%, BVLM 10%, BVLM 15% and BVLM 20%) with six replicates. The rabbits were adapted to the assigned diets for one week and fed for ten weeks. Feed intake, live weight changes and feed conversion ratio were the performance parameters measured. Existing market prices for feed items were used to appraise the diets economically. A digestibility study was undertaken during the 10th week. No mortality was recorded during the study. Before termination of the feeding trial, 15 rabbits (3 from each treatment) were selected randomly, taken off feed for 24 hours and humanely slaughtered. Carcass parameters and weights of internal organs were measured and recorded. Results revealed that live weight changes, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were similar for all treatments. However, the cost of feed/kg and feed/kg gain decreased linearly with an increase in the inclusion level of BVLM. The results also showed that BVLM could be utilized in up to 15% of grower rabbit diets without lowering nutrient digestibility and dressing percentage. It was concluded that BVLM could be used up to 20% of the diet of grower rabbits to reduce the cost of feed/kg and cost of feed/kg gain without any adverse effects on live weight changes and weights of internal organs.

25-30

Authors: Md. Samiul Alim and Mst. Sharmin Sultana

Agriculture is an ongoing changing field where farmers constantly change production technology by adopting different updated modern practices. The study explores the motivating factors influencing farmers to switch to synthetic pesticides dependent on farming from organic farming methods. The main factors are the lower price of organic vegetables, pesticide availability, social responsibility and economic considerations. The most challenging AEZ -13 coastal Satkhira has been taken for this study. The result shows that farmers who choose to switch give high importance to the production cost, price of organic vegetables, supply of bio-product, and availability of organic products than the moral, economic and social concerns.

38-41

Authors: Awoke Tadesse and Temesgen Jerjero

Rice crop is essential in a country. Still, the production and productivity are low due to uncovering a suitable area for rice production and the shortage of improved and unedited well-adapted variety. To solve this problem, the study was conducted in Dasenech district during (2020/21 and 2021/22) cropping seasons to select well-adapted varieties. The study contains 6 varieties (Gode, Shebele, Chewaqa, Kallafo, Nerica-15, and Pawe-2). For this study used a randomized complete block design with three replications. Yield and other trait data were collected and subjected to analysis of variance. The result of the analysis of variance showed that all parameters were significantly affected among tested rice varieties. The Pawe-2 variety gave the highest grain production (6284.7 kg ha-1) among the tested varieties. Based on the study result, it can be suggested that variety Pawe-2 perform well and is suitable for agro-pastoral in the Dasenech area under irrigation condition and its similar agro-ecology.

48-50

Authors: Merga Jibat and Mulukan Asfaw

The pathogen Phytophthora capsici, which causes black pepper foot rot, is the most detrimental disease that affects black pepper productivity and lowers qualitative and quantitative spike yields in southwest Ethiopia. The effectiveness of several fungicides and cultural methods against Phytophthora capsici in black pepper was tested in a field experiment. Five commercial fungicides and cultural practices were examined, and a natural Phytophthora capsici infection was noted. Disease incidence was determined by visually observing leaf blight, spike infection, leaf shedding, and vine yellowing. The most effective fungicide, with a disease incidence of 14.3%, was Koka blue 50 WG (Copper oxychloride) spraying when combined with cultural approaches. More 720 WP (Mancozeb + Cymoxanil), a combination of cultural practices and 19.1% disease incidence, came next. Agro-laxyl 63.5 WP (Metalaxyl + Mancozeb) and Progress 250 EC (Propiconazole 25%) combined with cultural practices were also effective against Phytophthora infection and found better than only cultural practices applied plot and control.

60-66

Authors: Alemayehu Balcha

In Ethiopia's mid and lowlands, where rainfall is erratic, finger millet (Eleusine coracana L.) is an important cereal crop. Finger millet yield is low partly due to variety instability and low yield potential. Field experiments were conducted in Boricha, Dore Bafano and Halaba districts of Southern region, Ethiopia, in 2018 and 2019, during the main cropping season from early May to October, to identify finger millet genotypes with high yield and wide adaptation. Eleven finger millet genotypes (ten improved and one local check) were grown in a randomized complete block design with four replications. AMMI analysis generated four principal components (PCs) with PC1 and PC2 being statistically significant (p<0.01). PC1, PC2, PC3, and PC4 contributed 49.85, 32.78, 9.27, and 7.22% of the variation in the GE interaction, respectively. E1 (Boricha2018), E2 (Boricha2019), E3 (Dore Bafano2018), E4 (Dore Bafano2019), E5 (Halaba2018), and E6 (Halaba2019) had a mean yield of 2.77, 3.47, 4.39, 4.26, 3.73, and 3.03 tons ha-1, respectively. Mean yield ranged from 3.03 (genotype Bareda) to 4.42 tons ha-1 (Kako-01). AMMI stability value ranged from 0.23 (genotype Bako-09) to 1.55 (Boneya), and yield stability index ranged from 3 (genotype Bako-09) to 19 (Bareda). AMMI1 and AMMI2 biplots explained 87.28% and 82.63% of the treatment sum of squares, respectively. In the present study, because of its high yield (4.27 tons ha-1) and stability across test environments, genotype Bako-09 would be recommended for widespread cultivation.

72-76

Authors: Pradip Hajong and Anup Ghosh

A preliminary study was conducted to estimate cost and return analysis on yam cultivation at Gaidghat of Bagharpara upazila of Jashore from February to March 2021. The average yam cultivation area was 0.12 ha in the study area. Different types of yam were cultivated in the study area, which had excellent local names, such as LalJhupi, KaloJhupi, Gorai, Lalteer, Altapat, Munshi, etc. Yam seed was shown from April to May and harvested from December to March. Most of the farmers planted yam seeds in rows where plant to plant distance was 1.5-2.5 feet and line to line distance was 2-3 feet. Average number of plants per hectare was 17023 nos., and the seed required 851 kg ha-1. The total cost of yam production was Tk. 1,23,060 ha-1, where the variable cost was Tk. 69,579 ha-1 (56.54%) and fixed cost were Tk. 53,481 ha-1 (43.46%). Yield of yam tuber was 44.98 ton ha-1, and seed yam was 2.05 ton ha-1. Gross return was Tk. 1,75,097 ha-1, gross margin was Tk. 1,05,518 ha-1 and the net return was Tk. 52,037 ha-1. The benefit cost ratio was 2.52, which means it's a profitable crop. Some disease organisms like fungi, viruses, and mites affect yam.

83-88

Authors: Bikila Mengistu and Shure Soboka

Moringa is a tree with medicinal, nutritional, industrial, and socio-economic values. Moringa leaf extracts have potential antihypertensive, antispasmodic, antiulcer, diuretic, hepato-protective and cholesterol-lowering activities. The study was conducted to analyze the nutritional quality of different moringa provenances and to promote the best provenances for the end users. Field experiments were conducted in Goro and Dallo Mena districts of Bale located in Oromia regional state of Ethiopia. Collected samples were air-dried at room temperature and milled for laboratory analysis. According to this study growing environment did not bring significant variation (P>0.05) in average mineral contents like Mg, Zn, P and CP content of the provenances. But significantly higher (P<0.05) Na, K, and Ca were recorded for the samples collected from Dallo Mena district, whereas higher Ash and Fe content was recorded in Goro district. On the other hand, provenance from Dallo Mena and Bako is superior to most of the quality characters analyzed. However, the one from Arbaminch is higher in Na and Zn contents. Provenance from Abay Filiklik is higher in Ash, K and P content. Moringa leaf is rich in Ash, Zn, Cp, and Mg to the sufficient level, while Fe, Ca and P are to the level of high or double to triple to the optimum level when compared to the optimum nutrient content of plant material. Generally, higher mean and individual chemical quality values were recorded from provenances grown in Dallo Mena district except for K, Fe, Zn, and CP, which are higher in Goro.

96-102

Authors: Mostafa Amir Hamza, Mollah Naimuzzaman and Swapan Kumar Roy

The medicinal plant, Moringa oleifera is frequently used in conventional healthcare to treat various conditions, including diabetes. The scientific evidence regarding M. oleifera's anti-diabetic characteristics and its potential as a supplemental treatment for diabetes control are examined in this review study. Studies have shown that M. oleifera has potent anti-diabetic properties, lowering blood sugar levels, enhancing insulin sensitivity, and decreasing complications from the disease. These benefits are thought to be caused by the plant's bioactive chemicals, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, which boost insulin secretion, prevent intestinal glucose absorption, and lessen oxidative stress. It has also been demonstrated that M. oleifera positively affects lipid metabolism, reducing overall cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that the plant possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that may strengthen its anti-diabetic benefits by lowering inflammation and oxidative stress, which are connected to the onset and progression of diabetes. People with diabetes may benefit from the potential anti-diabetic qualities of M. oleifera. Additional study is required to ascertain the ideal dose, duration, and safety of employing M. oleifera as an anti-diabetic medication. As a result, M. oleifera needs to be utilized as supplemental therapy under the guidance of a medical expert.

110-122

Authors: Tanzin Tamanna, Sofiqunnessa Tonni, Rifat Shahid Shammi, Md. Mehedi Hasan Khan, Md. Sirajul Islam, Mir Md. Mozammal Hoque, Nowara Tamanna Meghla and Md. Humayun Kabir

The main focus of the research was to examine the dispersion of elements and evaluate the possible ecological impact of heavy metals in the water of the Upper Banar River. To achieve this, water samples were obtained from ten different locations along the river, and the concentrations of Cr, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb, and As were analyzed using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Results exhibited that the abundance of Cr, Ni, Cu, Cd, Pb, and As in water varied from 1.10 to 3.20, 0.11 to 1.30, 1.30 to 13.50, 1.14 to 1.91, 0.39 to 0.75 and 1.44 to 2.56 µgL-1, respectively. Mean (±SD) concentrations of considered metals declined with the following downward direction: Cu (5.07±4.11) > As (1.94±1.15) > Cr (1.81±0.63) > Cd (1.42±0.23) Pb (0.55±0.12) > Ni (0.54±0.41), indicated that concentrations were reasonably assorted throughout the observed region. Moreover, the Upper Banar River water was contaminated with heavy metals, but the pollution level was not significant based on HPI analysis. Based on the computed HEI values, water quality is deemed low hazard and lower degrees of contamination. Overall, the river's water was still in good condition and had low levels of contamination, as per PI and CD ratings. Upper Banar River water's computed ERI ranged from 7.24 to 12.16, which showed a low-risk level. The study concluded that the Upper Banar River experienced some metallic pollution because of anthropogenic disturbances. Thus, responsible authorities should immediately implement appropriate management strategies and conduct routine water quality monitoring.

7-13

Authors: Mekete Girma, Fikre Nahom, Demerew Getaneh, Anwar Seid

This study was conducted in Maale district Southwest Ethiopia with the objective of evaluating the productive and reproductive performance of Maale goats under agro-pastoral management conditions. Thirty households that have flocks numbers of more than ten were purposely selected and monitored from July 2018 to July 2019. Growth data of birth weight, three month, six month, nine month and yearly weight; birth type and parity were collected. The data were analyzed using the General Linear Model (GLM) procedure of SPSS (21). The overall mean birth weight of the kids was 2.57±0.05 kg (males 2.68±0.07 and females 2.47±0.07 kg). The weaning and six months weight of kids was significantly different (p<0.05) between sexes of kids with 7.66±0.25 and 6.90±0.23 kg for male and female kids, respectively. The average body weight of males and females for six months; nine months and yearly were 11.57±0.30, 10.42±0.28; 15.42±0.27, 14.69±0.25 and 19.03±0.28, 18.43±0.25 kg, respectively. The birth type showed a significant (p<0.05) difference in birth weight. The result further indicated that the weaning weight of single and twin kids was highly significant (p< 0.001) and recorded as 7.66±0.25 and 6.90±0.23 kg, respectively. The overall pre-weaning average daily gain was 51.64±1.89 g day-1 (54.47±2.81 male and 48.93±2.53 g day-1 female). The birth type was significantly (p=0.01) different in pre-weaning growth rate and recorded 57.24±1.63 and 45.24±3.59 g day-1 for single and twin kids, respectively. Twins had higher post-weaning average daily gain than single and recorded as 43.61±1.48 and 40.76 ±0.70 g day-1, respectively. It was concluded that, along with other management interventions, the reproduction and growth performance of Maale goats is reasonably good and suited for community-based breeding strategies and higher performance could be expected.

18-26

Authors: Gazi Tamiz Uddin, Mahbuba Akther Mishu, Md Tuhinul Hasan, Debarshi Choudhury

The overall goal of this study was to examine the effects of climate change on the yield of four distinct crops (Aus, Aman, Boro and Wheat) in Sylhet by using secondary climate data from 1970 to 2020. The study's other goal is to assess the impact of river water levels on crop productivity in Sylhet over time. Data on crop productivity, weather variability and river water levels were gathered from the various fields. Yield vs. climatic correlation was discovered in the study, and this correlation varied according to season. To estimate the impact of climate change on rice yield, a multiple regression model is used. Climate variables in the model were found to account for 11% of the overall variation in Aus rice yield. The relationship between relative humidity and maximum temperature is positive and statistically significant. Other variables had no effect on yield because they were not significant. Furthermore, Regression results indicated that climate variables account for 60.6 percent of the overall variation in Aman rice output. Relative humidity, on the other hand, can undermine the yield. Climate variables account for 53.5 percent of the overall variation in Boro rice output, according to the findings. As a result, an increase in rainfall may have a negative impact on Boro rice yield. Maximum and minimum temperatures might have a favorable impact on Boro rice yield. Increases in maximum temperature, on the other hand, can considerably boost Wheat yield while decreases in minimum temperature can diminish Wheat yield. On the other side, the results of the regression analysis suggest that river water level has a minor impact on Aus, Aman, and Boro yield. However, as the model demonstrates, the river water level can have an impact on wheat yield. The impact of temperature and rainfall on water level was also investigated in this study because the regression model failed to produce positive results. Surprisingly, the model performs well, despite the fact that maximum temperatures have a negative impact on water levels in the Aus and Aman seasons. This shows that if warmer temperatures aid raises Aus and Aman yields, then the water level cannot sabotage the yield rise. Rainfall has a favorable impact on the water levels in the Aus, Aman, and Boro seasons, but has a negative impact on the water levels in the Wheat season.

36-40

Authors: Wasihun Wale Eyesa, Tuma Ayele Yadda, Ermais Dureto Badebo, Melese Lema Tessema

Amaranth (Amaranthus sp.) is an underutilized pseudo-cereal with excellent nutritional and functional properties. The nutritional compositions, anti-nutritional and mineral content of two Amaranth species were evaluated by using standard procedures. Completely Randomized Design (CRD) was used for nutritional, anti-nutritional and mineral content with two treatments and five replications. The nutritional compositions of Amaranthus cruentus and Amaranthus hypochondriacus were shown a significant difference (p<0.05) in mean scores excepting moisture content. Phytate and oxalate content of A. cruentus and A. hypochondriacus were shown a significant difference (p<0.05), but tannin content did not show a significant difference (p<0.05). The calcium, iron and zinc content of A. cruentus and A. hypochondriacus were shown a significant difference (p<0.05) in mean, scores. The Amaranth grain species were rich in crude protein, fat and fiber as compared to common cereal grains (maize, sorghum, rice, teff and wheat). A. cruentus and A. hypochondriacus can contribute minerals such as calcium, iron and zinc, which are very important for human nutrition. The results of the current study indicate that A. cruentus and A. hypochondriacus can provide better nutritional values and mineral content with a minimum value of anti-nutrients that are very important to minimize binds and block the absorption of certain minerals, such as iron, zinc and calcium. Using A. cruentus and A. hypochondriacus alone and with other cereals should be encouraged and recommended for consumption to increase the nutritional composition of diets and decrease food security problem in a study areas.

46-52

Authors: Amanuel Afeto, Yemiru Tesfaye

Rural people living around forests in Ethiopia depend on income from forest product collection as one of their livelihood activities. The forests of Sheka are threatened by unsustainable use and conversion to alternative land uses. This study was conducted to identify and quantify income from major forest products collected from the Sheka forest and examine factors that determine income from forest product collection. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected from primary and secondary sources. By stratified random sampling method, three kebeles were selected from the Masha district and 156 households were randomly selected from those kebeles and interviewed with a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were determined by SPSS and STATA software. Multiple linear regression models were employed to determine the relationship between socio-economic factors and forest income. The result indicates 17 major forest product were collected and contributes an average of $1553.75 or 41.17% of their total annual income and was the highest contributor to total income. Forest income varies with agro-ecology and distance from the nearby markets in the study area. Households in the study area utilize more forest products for home consumption. Incomes from forest product collection are significantly related to the level of education of the household head, family size, and distance of home from the forest and market. Households in the study area depend to a higher degree on income from forest product collection and have an implication of sustainable management of forests in the long term.

56-59

Authors: Tatek Mekuria, Konjit Abreham, Wondimagegn Addisu, Ute Guja

Appropriate fertilization methods for a particular crop based on real limiting nutrients and crop demands are cost-effective and wise utilization of fertilizers for long-term agricultural productivity. An experiment was done to assess alternative fertilizer types and rates for better maize production during main cropping season of 2018 and 2019. The fertilizers were set depending on the study area's limiting nutrients, which include NPS and NPSB at various rates. There are seven treatments in the experiment: (1)no fertilizer; (2) NPS: 69N, 54P2O5, 10S; (3) NPS: 92N, 72P2O5, 13S; (4) NPS: 115N, 90P2O5, 17S; (5) 69N, 54P2O5, 10S, 1.05B NPSB; (6) 92N, 72P2O5, 13S, 1.4B NPSB and (7) 115N, 90P2O5, 17S, 1.7B NPSB. Treatments were placed out in a randomized complete block design and replicated three times on two farmers' fields. The study showed that using NPS mixed fertilizer had a substantial impact on maize output when compared to the control. Treatment 2 (NPS; 69N, 54p2o5, 10S) yielded significantly greater maize yield over control at (P<0.05). Similarly, with an appropriate marginal rate of return (128.2%), treatment 2 (NPS; 69N, 54P2O5, 10S) had the largest net benefit (30908.5 ETB/ha). As a result, maize producers in the area of study should use NPS with the nutrient ratios of 69N, 54P2O5 and 10S.

64-73

Authors: Chukwuemeka Okere, Frank Abrahamsen, Nar Gurung

Body condition scores (BCS) and/or body weights (BWT) are often used as visual or tactile management tools to evaluate and improve reproductive competency in pasture-managed small ruminant animals. This study was designed to evaluate relationships between BCS, BWT and reproductive traits (number born alive and weaned, litter size, birth and weaning weights) in 16 purebred Kiko, 11 purebred Boer and 7 Kiko x Boer crossbred meat goat dams that were semi-intensively managed and bred to both Boer and Kiko bucks. BWT was recorded using a scale and palpable BCS scale of 1 to 5 (1= emaciated to 5= obese) and was subjectively determined at breeding, parturition and weaning. Pearson correlation coefficient (r) analysis was used to determine the relationships between residual values of reproductive and progeny performance and BWT or BCS. Pre-partum BCS and weaning BCS had a correlation of r=0.09. A moderate correlation was observed between BWT at breeding and the number born alive (r=0.36) suggesting that pre-partum BWT is the key body conformation measurement linked to the reproductive performance of dams both at birth and weaning. Both at breeding and at weaning BCS were negatively correlated with litter size (r= -0.11) and birth weight (r=-0.32) and weakly correlated with the number born alive (r=0.06). Also, negative correlations were obtained between BCS at weaning and kid weaning weight (r=-0.58) and number weaned (r=-0.26). Although BCS had no significant (P≥0.05) effect on kg kids born per dam, birth weight of kids, and kids weaning weights, it is evident that a BCS score of 3 at the mating time could optimize reproductive performance. The results of this project established the important roles that pre-breeding BWT and/or BCS have on reproductive performance (kidding rate) in meat goat herds. We recommend their evaluation as a useful management tool for distinguishing differences in the pre-partum nutritional needs of meat goat herds, especially in the pasture-based production system.

82-87

Authors: Wasihun Wale Eyese, Ermias Dureto Badebo, Melese Lema Tessema

The effect of harvesting stages (mature green, half-ripe and full ripe) and storage conditions (zero energy cool chamber, wooden box and underground storage) on post-harvest quality and sensory acceptability of mango fruit was evaluated. Three harvesting stages of mango fruit were harvested and 10 kg of mango fruit was stored in three storage conditions until the end of the storage period. Spoilage and weight loss of mango fruit were recorded from storage in three-day intervals. All samples were analyzed for Post-harvest quality of mango fruit before and after storage at Arba Minch University, Abaya Campus Chemistry laboratory, and sensory acceptability was evaluated by using untrained 45 panelists at the end of the storage period. Completely Randomized Design in factorial arrangement with three replications was used to evaluate the shelf life and postharvest quality of mango fruit. Weight loss, spoilage, firmness and total soluble solids of mango fruit were increased while vitamin C, moisture content and titratable acidity were decreased with increased storage time. The vitamin C content of mango fruit was highest at half ripe in a zero energy cool chamber and was lowest at full ripe harvested in a wooden box after the end of the storage period. The highest overall acceptability of mango fruit was observed at the half-ripe harvested stage in zero energy cool chambers while the lowest was observed at the mature green harvested stage mango fruit in a wooden box after the end of the storage period. Based on the current study, half ripen mango fruit in zero energy cool chamber storage recorded the least percent of weight loss, spoilage amount, maximum shelf life and quality, especially vitamin C content and higher overall acceptability. Further study will be needed on the microbial quality of mango fruit in different harvesting stages and storage conditions during storage periods.

96-100

Authors: Merknehi Bekele, Zerihun Dotora, Mekonen Debara

Nutrient deficiency is one of among major problems constraining the development of economically successful agriculture. Specifically, this resulted from lower crop performance. To enhance crop performance, the application of the newly recommended fertilizer rate is among the necessary measures. Hence, this pre-extension demonstration of the newly recommended fertilizer rate on maize and evaluated the change in its profitability. The demonstration was conducted at two farmers’ training centers and ten beneficiary farmers’ fields. Partial budget analysis was employed to evaluate the change in profitability from the new recommended rate. Based on the result, the average yield performances that were obtained from farmer's fields were 40.0 Q ha-1, 29.4 Q ha-1 of the new rate, and blanket recommendation rate, respectively. In addition, the yields obtained from the farmers’ training center were 47.0 Q ha-1 and 33 Q ha-1 of the new recommendation rate and blanket recommendation rate, respectively. This might be due to the effective monitoring and follow-ups in the farmers' training center than the farmers’ field. The result of the partial budget analysis revealed that adopting of newly recommended rate increases the overall profit, which is 8680 ETB per hectare. Therefore, it is better if increase the adoption rate of the newly recommended fertilizer rate on maize to improve the production and productivity of maize producers.

111-116

Authors: Fikadu Ejigu, Wondimu Yonas, Asaminew Amare, Andualem Gadisa

Most sweet potato varieties currently grown by farmers are poorly adapted, have low root yields, less nutritive and white fleshed which have no beta carotene, a precursor to vitamin “A”. However, among the cheapest and richest sources of vitamin A; orange fleshed sweet potato varieties were rich in beta carotene are well accepted by young children. Hence the aim of this research project was conducted to evaluate the adaptability and performance of improved orange-fleshed sweet potato varieties on yield and other yield related traits during the 2020 main cropping season in southwest Ethiopia. The varieties used were Tulla, Kulfo, Guntutie, Vita, Kabode, Alamura and Dilla. The experiment was carried out using a randomized block design with three replications. The analysis of variance over locations depicted significant differences (p ≤0.05) among varieties for most of the studied traits. In this study, Alamura (31.42 t ha-1) and Dilla (27.8 t ha-1) varieties give a high yield among seven evaluated orange-fleshed sweet potato varieties. Based on farmer test preference, the first and second rank of test preference was recorded from Alamura and Dilla variety. Therefore, by considering both farmer’s test preference and the yield potential of the variety, Alamura and Dilla were selected as high yields and have the best test preference. Therefore, to fill the gap vitamin “A” deficiency at the community level Alamura and Dilla were selected as the best orange fleshed variety that has the best test preference with the highest yield in the humid tropics of Southwestern Ethiopia and these two varieties were recommended for production. Finally, since the result of this finding was based on data gathered from two locations and only one cropping season to test adaptability. So, one more additional season evaluation is necessary and also further studies are required to generate more reliable information on performance, nutrition and resistance to disease.

126-133

Authors: Mashrat Jahan, Jaba Rani Sarker, Preetilata Burman, Linnet Riya Barman

From the mid of the 19th-century chemical fertilizers were introduced into Bangladesh as an additional source of plant nutrients. After that the use of fertilizer in crop production increases. However, the extreme use of chemical fertilizers can create hazardous environmental degradation, which in turn can lower yields. So, the optimum level should maintain that can help in turn increase production. In this current study, 150 groundnut farmers in the research areas were taken based on their fertilizer application methods. It shows that the number of chemical fertilizer users constituted a major share of the total almost 44.67%. Among all the farmers, chemical fertilizer users incurred the highest return on investment by 1.48. Land area, cost of irrigation and chemical fertilizer affect the adoption of chemical fertilizer usage positively. The higher cost of production due to the application cost of inorganic fertilizer also increases the yield simultaneously. The study shows that farmers who avoid using fertilizer result in lower production compare to others. In that case, age and education were identified as factors that pushed the farmers towards chemical fertilizer and enjoying higher production.

138-143

Authors: Ashenafi Abriham

The experiment was conducted to determine optimum plant spacing and suitable variety and as well as to identify the interaction effect of varieties and Intra-row spacing on the yield of sorghum. The experiment having a factorial arrangement of three varieties (Geremew, Lalo and farmer’s local variety) and three intra-row levels (10 cm, 15 cm and 20 cm) was laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. According to the current results, varieties were significantly (p<0.05) affected by all the parameters (days to maturity, plant height, panicle length, thousand seed weight and total grain yield) except stand count. The maximum days to maturity and total grain yield (205.2 days and 5628.1 kg ha-1 respectively) were obtained from Lalo. The highest thousand seed weight (23.1 g) was recorded from Geremew and at it takes a short period for maturity (119.5 days). Similarly, intra-row spacing significantly (p<0.05) affected the panicle length and stand count. The highest panicle length (28.15 cm) was recorded in 15 cm intra-row spaced plants. The maximum stand count (78.6 % and 83.6%) was obtained from 15 cm and 20 cm spaced plants respectively. Generally, the outcome of this study revealed that even though the yield was statistically non-significant to intra-raw spacing, at 15cm and 20cm the grain yield was a maximum of 4178.5 kg ha-1 and 4190.9 kg ha-1, respectively. Therefore, among the intra-row spacing 20 cm intra-row spacing for its minimized planting materials (seed) and easy management and among the varieties, Lalo could be promoted in study areas and similar agro-ecologies.

155-163

Authors: Taslima Ayesha Aktar Nasrin, Md Nazrul Islam, Md Atiqur Rahman, Most Sadia Arfin, Mafruha Afroz, Mohhammad Mainuddin Molla, Ashfak Ahmed Sabuz, Md Abdul Matin

Compact, medium size, white to creamy cauliflower curds were packed into different packaging techniques like i. without packaging (control); ii. packed in low density polyethylene (LDPE) bag with 1% perforation; iii. wrapped with polyethylene (PE) cling film and iv. newspaper (locally used). Half of each treatment was kept at (6±1°C and 50±5% RH) and the other half was kept at ambient conditions (25±3°C and 60±5% RH). LDPE bag or PE cling film has a great effect to retain firmness and reduce weight loss of cauliflower in both storage conditions. Respiration rate, rot incidence and changes of colour values (lightness and hue angle) was reduced significantly for the cauliflowers packed in LDPE bag or wrapped with PE cling film stored in a refrigerator than that of control (without packaging) and all packaging techniques stored at ambient condition throughout the storage period. Initially, acidity, TSS and ascorbic acid content were 0.26%, 4.7° Brix and 58.7 mg 100g-1, respectively. Ascorbic acid content was reduced severely in the cauliflower stored in ambient conditions than that stored in a refrigerator. Cauliflower wrapped with PE cling film and packed in an LDPE bag (1% perforation) stored in a refrigerator (6±1°C and 50±5% RH) could retain white colour, good sensory quality, firm and fresh curds with minimum loss in weight, texture and disease incidence up to 18 days and 16 days, respectively.

4-7

Authors: Bayeta Gadissa; Amare Biftu; Ayalew Sida

On-farm demonstration of improved field pea varieties was conducted in Goba, Sinana and Agarfa districts of Bale zone. The main objective of the study was to demonstrate and evaluate recently released Hortu variety along with standard check. The demonstration was under taken on single plot of 10m x 10m area for each variety with row planting, recommended seed rate of 75 kg ha-1 and fertilizer rate of 100 kg ha-1 NPS. Mini-field day involving different stakeholders was organized at each respective site. Yield data per plot was recorded and analysed using descriptive statistics, while farmers' preference to the demonstrated varieties was identified using focused group discussion and summarized using pair wise ranking methods. The demonstration result revealed that Hortu variety performed better than the standard check Harena variety with an average yield of 36.30 qt ha-1 and 31.42 qt ha-1, respectively. Hortu variety had 15.53% yield advantage over the standard check. Furthermore, farmers selected this variety. Thus, Hortu variety was recommended for further scaling up.

12-17

Authors: Pradip Hajong; Hafijur Rahman; Shahriar Kobir

The study was conducted for the assessment of marketing system of summer tomato in Jashore. Summer tomato had high demand and high value crop in summer season among the consumers. Data were collected from 30 randomly selected tomato farmers and 60 traders from different market of Jashore district of Bangladesh during July-October, 2019. Farmer, faria, bepari, wholesaler, commission agents and retailer were involved in marketing of summer tomato. Marketing cost of farmar, faria, bepari, wholesaler, retailer (urban) and retailer (rural) were 430.00, 691.00, 2184.00, 2443.00, 1857.00 and 1074.00 Tk ton-1, respectively. Net margin or profit of the faria, bepari, wholesaler and retailer were 1300.00, 817.00, 557.00 and 2143.00 Tk ton-1, respectively. There were seven marketing channel exist in tomato marketing. Total marketing cost of all intermediaries was 7604.00 Tk ton-1 and net margin was 4826.00 Tk ton-1. Marketing efficiency was 2.25. Price spread between consumer paid and producer received was 8000.00 Tk ton-1. On the other hand, producer share was 78 percent. Spoilage and damage, transportation and packaging were the main marketing problem of summer tomato.

24-29

Authors: Midamba Dick Chune; Mustaf Mohamed Takoy; Odongkara Peter

This study aimed at analyzing technical efficiency and its determinants among tobacco producers in Uganda. To achieve this, primary data were drawn from 200 tobacco farmers using semi-structured questionnaires. In order to determine the technical efficiency and its determinants, Data envelopment analysis and Tobit regression model were used for the analysis respectively. From the results, we observed that the mean TE was 49%, implying that the farmers were 51% inefficient. Furthermore, input prices, land size, farmers' age, farm income and farm location were found to be the determinants of technical efficiency. This study recommended that the government should subsidize farm inputs as well as training the farmers on input combinations in order to increase technical efficiency level.

34-38

Authors: Biruk Gezahegn; Awoke Tadesse; Anteneh Tadesse

A field experiment was carried out for two successive cropping seasons in 2017 and 2018 at Shama Bulket, Semen Ari Woreda, South Omo Zone, Southern Ethiopia, to determine optimum seed rate and inter-row spacing for food barley production. The experiment involved a factorial combination of three seed rates (80, 100 and 120 kg ha-1) and three inter-row spacing (20, 30 and 40 cm). The experiment was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results indicated the treatments had significant effect in all parameters except plant height and spike length. Based on the result of this study, use of 30 cm inter-row spacing and 120 kg ha-1 seed rate is superior in grain yield (4481 kg ha-1) and total biomass (14.6 t ha-1). Therefore, use of 30 cm inter row spacing with seeding rate of 120 kg ha-1 can be recommended for food barley production at Shama Bulket kebele and its vicinity.

45-55

Authors: Henok Tsegaye; Yemiru Tesfaye; Degnet Abebaw; Habtemariam Kassa; Abdu Abdelkadir; Kebede Gizachew

Agricultural expansion is one of the main drivers of deforestation in Ethiopia. This study was therefore carried out to examine the trade-off between forest and agricultural land uses in Guraferda district, southwest Ethiopia. Data to estimate economic values of land use were derived from the household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. The household surveys were carried out in four purposively selected kebeles. Within the selected Kebeles, a total of 186 sample households were selected randomly. In addition, this study used Remote Sensing (RS) to detect and quantify LULC changes that occurred in the district throughout a thirty-year study period. The study employed by Excel 2013 for solving a cost –benefit analysis and ERDAS Imagine 9.1 for image processing. The finding revealed that an expansion of agriculture/settlement and shrinkage of forest and shrub land over the last thirty-year. The forest and shrub land use decreased by 0.43 and 2.42% ha year-1, respectively, whereas agriculture/settlement and grassland increased by 9.1 and 0.64% ha year-1, respectively over the same period. The deforestation rate is estimated at 425 ha year-1 in the study area. Analysis of trade-off provides estimated forgone earnings of about ETB 79,138 ETB (1665.3 USD ha-1) and ETB 258,298.10 (5,435.5 USD ha-1) from forest conservation and crop production, respectively assuming a 20-year planning horizon and a 10% discount rate. The 425 ha of annual deforestation entails a loss of ETB 33,633,650 (707,779 USD year-1) from forest conservation and a gain of 109,776,692.5 ETB (2,310,115.5 USD) agricultural activity.

67-71

Authors: Worlah Yawo Akwetey; Justice Bless Dorleku; Elizabeth Yeboah

The nutritional and sensory characteristics of processed meat are of major concern to consumers across the globe. This study evaluated nutritional and sensory properties of pork sausages using pig stomach as filler meat. Pig stomach replaced lean pork at 0% (control), 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%, respectively to obtain treatments coded as T0, T25, T50, T75 and T100, respectively. The sausages were assessed for acidity, water holding capacity, cooking loss, proximate composition and sensory attributes. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in flavour of sausages in particular; and all other sensory attributes of sausages produced with or without pig stomachs. Treatments T0, T25 and T50 were very similar in most of the sensory properties. Both pH and water holding capacity reduced with increasing levels of pig stomach used, and there were significant differences (p<0.05) between treatments. The results obtained suggest that pig stomach could be used at 50% in smoked pork sausages without adverse effects on nutritional and sensory properties.

79-83

Authors: Gezahegn Fikre; Awoke Mensa; Alemayehu Wodaje

Tomato is one of the important vegetables grown all over the world for its nutritious and economic value. Varietal improvement for high yielding, pest resistance and tolerance, drought tolerance and processing quality traits are vital thereby to enhance production and productivity of the crop. Due to lack of improved varieties in the study area, local productivity of tomato is challenged and its production is very limited. Hence, identification of improved tomato varieties that are adaptable, high yielding and disease resistant is crucial before dissemination to boost its productivity in the study area. Therefore, this experiment was conducted at Arba Minch to evaluate ten improved tomato varieties for yield and yield components under irrigation condition using randomized complete block design replicated three times. ANOVA result indicated that there is a significant variation among tested varieties in all studied parameters. The mean total yield and number of fruits plant-1 of tomato varieties varied from 4991.1 to 11,215 kg ha-1 and 13.33 to 36.53 fruits plant-1, respectively. ‘Melkashola' scored the highest marketable yield (9,438 kg ha-1) and total yield (11,216 kg ha-1) being followed by ‘Bishola' (8,756 kg ha-1) and ‘Melkasalsa' (8,367 kg ha-1). On the other hand, ‘Melkasalsa' and ‘Miya' with moderately high yield might also be regarded as other potential varieties. Therefore, the first three varieties are recommended for cultivation in the study area and similar agro-ecology.

94-100

Authors: Merkine Mogiso; Tesfaye Tarekegn

Plant population has a strong influence on rice yield. A field experiment was conducted during the 2017 and 2018 main cropping seasons at Guraferda district in Bench Sheko Zone, Southwest Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum plant population and appropriate variety on grain yield and yield components of upland rice. The experiment was carried out using RCBD with three replications. Five levels of plant populations (60, 80, 100, 120, and 140 kg ha-1) and three levels of genotypes (Nerica-4, Suparica-1, and Local check) were studied. The main effect of plant population and variety had significant (p<0.05) for most of the parameters investigated. However, the interaction effect had only statistically significant for the number of tillers, panicles, and grain yield. The combined results showed that the maximum grain yield of 5553.3, 5491.0, 5252.5, 5047.6, 5043.1, and 4955.6 kg ha-1 were obtained at the respective treatment combinations of Suparica-1 with 80, Suparica-1 with 100, Local check with 140, Suparica-1 with 120, and Local check with 120 and 100 kg ha-1 plant populations. In addition to the above result, a Partial budget analysis was also carried out to determine the economic optimum plant population for production. Accordingly, the combination of Suparica-1 at the rate of 80 kg ha-1 was appropriate to get a better yield and higher economic benefit. Therefore, it can be possible to suggest the finding for wider production.

105-114

Authors: Aklilu Asado; Asmera Adicha; Yemiryu Tesfaye

This study was initiated to estimate households' willingness to pay for improved water services and identify its determinants by using the contingent valuation method in Bonga town of Kaffa zone, Southwestern Ethiopia. A cross-sectional data from a total of 212 sampled households' from two randomly selected kebeles of Bonga town. Contingent valuation survey responses were analyzed through descriptive and econometric analysis using Probit and Bivariate probit model. Double bounded dichotomous choice with open-ended follow-up format was used to elicit the household's willingness to pay. The descriptive analysis showed that out of the total 205 valid responses indicated that most households' have perceived the problem of existing water services and were willing to pay for its improvement. Results from the study showed that about 80.98% of the sampled households were willing to pay the initial bid offered for an improvement in their water services scheme. The Probit model regression result shows that the age, daily water use, satisfaction level, fetching time, initial bid, ownership of the house, quality, family size, stay in town, and income were important factors that influenced WTP for improved water service. The study also shows that the maximum willingness to pay for improved water service was calculated to be 57.62 Birr and 30.11 Birr per month from double bounded and open-ended format respectively. The study also reveals that the aggregate welfare gains from the improvement of water supply in the study area were calculated to be 1,176,531 and 614,810 ETB per month from double bounded dichotomous choice and open-ended format respectively. Therefore, the policymakers, as well as project implementers who design solutions to address the problem of water service in the study area, should take account of these factors into their decision.

120-128

Authors: Afruz Ahmed; M. Kamruzzaman; Mashrat Jahan; Kaynath Akhi

This study was carried out to find out the financial profitability and technical efficiency of tilapia fish farmers in the selected area of Bangladesh. A total of 70 tilapia fish farmers (large 36 farmers and small 34 farmers) were selected from major tilapia producing area at Trishal upazila of Mymensingh district in Bangladesh. To fulfill the objectives of this study, profitability, socioeconomic analysis, Cobb-Douglas production function and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) were employed. Study revealed that gross profit margin of the large farmers was 24.42% and small scale farmers was 23.8% indicating that farmers did not enough well in managing their farm and farmers has less capacity to cover for operating, financing and other cost. Break-even price for the large tilapia farmers worked out Tk. 77.33 per kg and small farmers was Tk. 81.56 per kg while break-even production for large farmers was found 1159.64 kg per hectare. Benefit cost ratio, net profit margin were found more than one and positive respectively, indicated that tilapia farming was commercially profitable. Considering all selected farmers, tilapia farming found a profitable business where undiscounted BCR for large farmers was 1.213 and a small farmer was 1.230. The mean technical efficiency level of tilapia fish farmers was 81.8 (where allocative efficiency was 93.1 and scale efficiency was 88.2) percent, implies that by operating at full technical efficiency levels, tilapia yield could be increased and efficient farmers found more productive than inefficient farmers. The results of technical efficiency showed that the farmers were efficient nevertheless, the sample farmers operated well below the production frontier and hence that they still had a chance to achieve targeted yields. Farmer's financial benefit can be increased by reducing the feed price or increasing the output price.

137-140

Authors: Tekle Yoseph

Field experiments were conducted on pastoral and agro-pastoral areas of South Omo Zone at Dasenech, Hammer and Gynagatom woredas of South Omo Zone, Southern Ethiopia on four cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp.] varieties in 2019 under irrigation. The objective of the study was to select the best performing cowpea varieties in the target areas. The cowpea varieties included in the field experiment were (Black eye bean, Bole, TVU, and Kankeit). The experiments were carried out using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The combined analysis of variance results depicted that there were significant differences among the varieties for all the studied parameters except the number of seeds per pod. The mean values for plant height ranged from 84.89 (cm) for the variety Bole to 120.67 (cm) for TVU. The mean values for the number of pods per plant ranged from 24.33 for the variety Bole to 46.90 for TVU. The mean value for 100 seeds weight was maximum (21.11g) for the cowpea variety black eye bean and, while it was minimum (17.11 g) for the variety TVU. The highest overall mean grain yield of 2457.0 kg ha-1 was recorded for the variety Kankeit while the minimum 1695.3 kg ha-1 was noted for the cowpea variety black eye bean. Therefore, the variety Kankeit and TVU could be recommended for the study areas however further research should be done to put the recommendation on a strong basis.

145-154

Authors: Merdikios Malla; Genanaw Tesema; Yenesew Animaw

Depleting of soil fertility, soil organic matter, macro-and micro-nutrients and crop nutrient imbalances are among the primary biophysical limitations that reduce the production of teff. The experiment was conducted to evaluate teff response to blended fertilizer types and rates in Debub Ari and Bena Tsemay districts. Control, Recommended NP, 3 dosages of NPS and NPSB blended fertilizer rates each were used that is laid out in RCBD following three replication. The full dose of blended and P fertilizers was applied at planting and urea was applied in two splits. The result was revealed that application of 200 kg ha-1 NPSB + 127 kg ha-1 Urea resulted in the highest grain yield of 2299.5 kg ha-1 in Debub Ari and 200 kg ha-1 NPS + 117 kg ha-1 Urea gives 1809.2 kg ha-1 in Bena Tsemay, while the lowest grain yield was recorded from the nil in both districts. However, the highest economic return was obtained in response to the application of 64 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P in both districts. Application of 64 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P gives 57.24% and 14.42% yield increment in Debub Ari and Bena Tsemay, respectively; also 54.47% and 7.57% increment in economic return in Debub Ari and Bena Tsemay in the same order over the control. Application of 64 kg ha-1 N + 20 kg ha-1 P was recommended for the production of teff on the study area and similar agro-ecologies, as it was optimum for improving teff production. Further investigation should be done on plant nutrient uptake and using efficiency and grain quality.

161-165

Authors: Atlaw Eshbel; Tamerat Gutema; Anteneh Tadesse; Mohamed Awol; Mehari G mikael;

Cooking banana is a type of banana mainly cultivated for its fruit, which is eaten as cooked as a vegetable in many food insecurity areas. The experiment was conducted at Dasenech Woreda where food insecurity and malnutrition is the main problem to evaluate the performance of cooking banana varieties for Fruit yield and boiling suitability. Four improved cooking banana verities (Cardaba, Nijiru, Matoke and Kitawira) were used as a treatment and arranged in RCBD with three replications. All the growth, agronomic and sensory acceptability data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS 9.0 computer software. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant (P≤0.05) differences among the varieties on day of flowering, day of maturity, plant height, fruit weight, number of hands per bunch, bunch weight and total fruit yield. The early date flowering (112) and date of maturing (203.33), as well as the highest number of hands per bunch (8.66), were observed on the variety Matoke. The higher mean value of average fruit weight (168.33 g), bunch weight (15.66 kg) and total yield (23.46 ton ha-1) were observed on the variety Kitawira followed by Mattoke. For panelists scoring preference, the sensory acceptability means scores of boiled Mattoke, Cardoba and Nijru verities showed positive acceptability value from like slightly (Nijiru) to like very much (Mattoke) while Kitawara showed a negative acceptability level. Therefore, the variety Mattoke was identified as the early maturing, moderately yielder and best sensory quality accepted as compared to other varieties that could be recommended to demonstrate in the study area.

174-181

Authors: Golam Sarwar; Abu Sayed Mondol; Pallab Goswami; Saiful Huda

The key objective of the study was to determine the extent of attitude of the women farmers towards organic farming. The study was conducted in two union of Nilphamari Sadar upazila such as Lakshmi Chap and Palashbari under Nilphamari district. Total 100 women farmers were selected from the study area as the population and random sample techniques was used to comprised of 80 constituted the sample of the study. Data were collected by a pre-tested interview schedule during 25 April to 25 May 2020. Simple and direct questions with different scales were used to obtain information. Attitude of the women farmers towards organic farming was measured by Likert scale. Descriptive statistics, multiple regression was used for analysis. Slightly above three-fifths (63.7 percent) of the women farmers had moderately favorable attitude towards organic farming while 21.3 percent slightly favorable attitude and 15.0 percent of women farmers under highly favorable attitude towards organic farming. It is noticed that the majority (85.0 percent) of the women farmers showed slightly favorable to moderately favorable attitude towards organic farming. Educational qualification, training experience, and access to extension contact of the respondents had significant positive contribution with their attitude towards organic farming. The most important problem (77.50 percent) faced by the women farmers was “higher amount of insect pest and diseases”. The foremost (67.50 percent) suggestion offered by the women farmers was “Developing organic pesticide company through private and government initiatives”.

10-17

Authors: M. Malla, G. Tesema, S. Tesema, A. Hegano and S. Negash

Depletion of soil fertility, depletion of macro- and micro-nutrients and soil organic matter and inappropriate and imbalanced fertilizer application are among the most important factors that reduces the food barley production in Ethiopia. Therefore, the experiment was conducted to evaluate NPSB blended fertilizer rate effect on improving production of food barley in Semen Ari District, Southwestern Ethiopia during main cropping season. Control, (142 NPS + 159 Urea) kg ha-1, (150 NPSB + 41 Urea) kg ha-1, (200 NPSB + 72 Urea) kg ha-1, (250 NPSB + 102 Urea) kg ha-1 and (100 NPSB + 161 Urea) kg ha-1 treatments were used for the experiment which laid out in RCBD following three replication with spacing of 20 cm between rows; and HB 1307 improved food barley seeds were drilled on prepared rows. Full dose of blended and potassium fertilizers were applied at planting time and urea was applied in two split. The result revealed that food barley responded well to application of N, P, S and B than the unfertilized one. Application of 100 kg ha-1 NPSB + 161 kg ha-1 Urea resulted in highest grain yield of 3806.3 kg ha-1, while the lowest grain yield of 1939.2 kg ha-1 was recorded from the nil. Moreover, the highest net benefit of 32124.56 ETB ha-1 and economic returns of 942.2% was recorded in response to application of 100 kg ha-1 NPSB + 161 kg ha-1 Urea. Application of 100 kg ha-1 NPSB + 161 kg ha-1 Urea gave 49.05% yield increment and 40.24% increment in economic return over the control. Therefore, we recommend application of 100 kg ha-1 NPSB + 161 kg ha-1 Urea for farmers and investor’s in study area and similar agro-ecologies as it was optimum for improving food barley production. Further studies and investigation should be done on plant nutrient uptake, nutrient use efficiency and over location.

27-36

Authors: O.S. Oduniyi, M.A Antwi and A.N. Mukwevho

The participation of emerging farmers in high-value agricultural markets in South Africa cannot be over-emphasized. It is one of the objectives of the government to assist emerging farmers with the necessary resources and programmes to enable them to meet the requirements and participate in high-value markets. The study investigated the impact of participation in the high-value market on cattle production (cattle sold). A systematic random probabilistic sampling technique was used to obtain a sample of 55 emerging beef farmers. Interviews were undertaken using questionnaires to collect data. Descriptive statistics and econometric methods such as Tobit model and a treatment effect model using propensity score matching estimator were employed for the data analysis. The results of binary logit regression from the PSM revealed that participation in a high-value market was significantly affected by age, household size, years of farming and difficulty accessing a high-value market. The average treatment effect of the treated showed a negative impact and decreases the number of cattle sold by 58%. The recommendations informed by the findings from the study are that youth in the study area should be involved in beef farming, appropriate training should be given to the farmers and farmer's advisor should motivate farmers to sell more cattle and participate in a high-value market, and educate them about the requirements to participate in the high value markets. The DARD lease assistance should continue and include the lease of more land.

42-51

Authors: A. Kolapo, O.V. Ogunyemi, O.M. Ologundudu, I.A. Adekunle, M.O. Akinloye and F. Komolehin

In this study, we used a household level survey to assess choices of varieties and demand for improved cassava varieties. A multivariate probit model was used to examine the determinants of choice decisions of the farmers for different varieties preventing potential endogeneity and measurement error. A Linearized Almost Ideal Demand System (LA/AIDS) model was used to analyze the demand system for improved cassava varieties. The results of the (LA/AIDS) model indicated farmers were very price sensitive to changes in improved stem prices and incomes. We suggest that intervention program that will improve the purchasing power of the farmers should be targeted towards the smallholder cassava farmers to accelerate adoption of improved cassava varieties.

61-68

Authors: Y. Alemayehu

This study mainly aimed at analyzing market chain analysis of coffee in the Debub Ari District. The descriptive and S-C-P model was used. Both primary and secondary data were collected from the study area. The multi-stage sampling technique employed for this study. A total of 194 coffee producer household heads have been randomly selected and interviewed with the help of pre-tested structured questionnaire. The focus group discussion and key informants interviews were conducted to supplement the formal data. The results of S-C-P model indicated that the four firms concentration ratio (CR4) result in the study area was found to be tight oligopolistic for both red and dry coffee which accounts 89.2 and 80.0%, respectively. About 72% of price setting was done by buyers, 27% negotiation and 1% by the producers. There are seven market channels, which have been identified in the study area. The computed marketing margin among different actors and channels indicated that the total gross marketing margin (TGMM) of coffee is high in channel I, II, III whereas the producers marketing margin (GMMp) was highest in channel VII. Therefore, the intervention is needed to improve coffee marketing chain through promoting cooperatives, infrastructural development and timely market information for efficient marketing system in the study area.

72-75

Authors: Y.D. Nayak and A.P. Sahoo

Entrepreneurs are credited with playing a key role in wealth creation and economic development. There has been enough focus of empirical literature on linking entrepreneurship and employment generation, reducing income disparity and contributing to balanced regional development. However, the environment catastrophe, world is facing, has made it imminent for the business to find new ways of doing business. Green Entrepreneurship, however nascent, provides a gleam of hope to in the direction of sustainable development. Growing consumer awareness and preference towards environmentally friendly products has also made embedding green concepts in business models a source of competitive advantage. This study is exploratory in nature as it offers insights into the emergence of the concept of green entrepreneurship and its role in the Indian context. Based on available literature, the study proposes a conceptual model explaining a link between various social, environmental and institutional factors and green entrepreneurship, leading to sustainable development. The study also explores current green entrepreneurship scenario in the light of opportunities and challenges by presenting the case studies of successful green ventures in India.

85-94

Authors: T.N. Shila, M.S. Islam, M.M.M. Hoque, M.H. Kabir, M.R. Jamil and U. Kumar

The study was conducted to investigate the soil properties and pesticide intensity in rice, banana and brinjal growing agricultural land of Delduar and Sakhipur upazila of Tangail district during July 2019 to June 2020. Forty five soil samples were collected from different crop land at the study area and analyzed in the Soil Resource Development Institute to determine the soil properties as pH, total organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), available sulfur (S), available zinc (Zn), exchangeable potassium (K), exchangeable magnesium (Mg) and exchangeable calcium (Ca). However, pesticide used intensity was also evaluated through questionnaire survey with farmers and stakeholders in the study area. Results showed that pH, OM, available N, exchangeable Ca and exchangeable Mg content were significantly higher in rice growing land than banana and brinjal. On the other hand, available P, exchangeable K and available Zn content were substantially higher in brinjal growing land than rice and banana. The OM showed significant positive correlation with soil pH, available N, available S, exchangeable Mg and exchangeable Ca (r=0.37, 0.99, 0.31, 0.59 and 0.63, respectively), indicated rice growing land built up these soil properties through increasing soil OM. The available P showed significant and positive correlation with K and Zn (r=0.55 and 0.74, respectively), but negative correlation with exchangeable Mg and exchangeable Ca (r=-0.53 and -0.32, respectively). The exchangeable K showed significant and positive correlation with available Zn (r=0.45) but negative correlation with exchangeable Mg (r=-0.37). The Mg showed significant negative correlation with available Zn (r=-0.45) but positive correlation with exchangeable Ca (r=0.87). Results also revealed that pesticide used intensity was higher in brinjal followed by banana and minimum in rice crop. Study suggests that farmers require up-to-date information on soil nutrient status so that they may use the proper utilization of fertilizers and avoid using excessive amounts of fertilizers and pesticides in their crop land.

103-107

Authors: A. Kolapo, A.S. Ogunleye, A.D. Kehinde and A.A. Adebanke

The study examined the determinants of farmers’ access to microcredit from cooperative societies in Ondo state. A multistage sampling technique was used to obtain data from 100 respondents. Primary data was collected for the purpose of the study. We used descriptive statistics and logit regression model to analyses the data collected. Result showed that the farmers were mostly male farmers (64%) while majority of the farmers had a mean age of 44.10 ± 14.70. It was also revealed that consumer cooperative society, producer cooperative society, marketing cooperative society, cooperative farming society and credit and thrift cooperative society were the major forms of cooperative used by the farmers. The result also shows that age, marital status, farm size, farming experience, credit from another source and number of years in the cooperative significantly influenced farmers’ access to microcredit from cooperative society.

117-123

Authors: Wakuma Merga Sakata

The inconsistence of genotypes across location during plant breeding is the major challenges to the breeder. That is the differential response of genotypes to different environment. Meanwhile stability is the ability of a genotype to withstand stressful conditions and yet be able to produce yield. Thus, stability is an absolute and relative measure. Arabica coffee has location specific adaptation nature and that leads to highly significant instability in its breeding program. In the study of coffee bean yield stability cultivars tested at multi- locations within the domain of coffee growing ecologies of Ethiopia, showed a significant genotype x environment interaction. The review of previous research also indicated inconsistent effects of genotype x environment interaction on cup quality. Yield-stability analysis is very important in measuring cultivar stability and suitability for growing crops across seasons and agro-ecological region to identify stable genotype. The yield stability have been challenge to the plant breeders and biometricians, it complicates the selection of superior genotypes. It is important to minimize the usefulness of the genotype across environments for selecting. Since approach of plant breeding is to develop genotypes that are, optimum for the condition under which they will be grown breeders have to manage yield instability throughout formalized procedures of plant breeding. During stability measurement if the variance is found to be significant, various methods of measuring the stability of genotypes can be used to identify the stable genotype(s). Most of stability analysis parameters are briefly discussed in this review.

133-138

Authors: Susmita Das Riya

The study targets at farmer’s perception and their cognition how they conceive that agricultural performance has been affected and devastated through industrial work. It reviews and investigates the opinion of 25% farmers of two villages from each upazila of two named Madhapur and Habiganj sadar upazila in Sylhet division where Charu Ceramic Industry Limited and Olipur industry are located respectively from mid-September to mid-October, 2021 through survey of questionnaire, interview and group discussion. According to 85% farmers, the industry shades agriculture by imposing an adverse and toxic impact on agricultural exposure and development. Among them, (41.6% and 48.4%) of farmers realize that the industry creates high propensity of losing standard quality of soil and water, respectively. They (40.2%) notice that invasion of several dangerous insects on crops has become prominent and unmanageable near the industrial area. The study represents such kind of realization of farmers to show a salient feature in view of their finding causes and intuition with significant numerical data.

147-150

Authors: G. Biruk, T. Awoke and T. Anteneh

Field experiment was carried out during the 2017-18 cropping season at Kako, Bena-Ttsemay woreda, South Omo zone, Southern Ethiopia to determine the effect of intercropping of maize and cowpea on the yield, land use efficiency and profitability of both crops. The experiment consisted of 4 treatments (sole maize, sole cowpea, one row maize to one row cowpea and one row maize to two-row cowpea) and laid in RCBD in four replications. Intercropping of one row maize to one row cowpea and one row maize to two-row cowpea, resulted in 55.8% and 27.9% greater land use efficiency than for either crop grown alone. The highest MAI was obtained by growing one row of maize to one row of cowpea (11563.17) followed by one row maize to two-rows of cowpea (6783.50).Based on the present finding, intercropping of one row maize and one row cowpea more economic advantage than the other crop combination or grown alone. Therefore, intercropping of one row maize to one row cowpea is an advantageous to farmers in the study area since it would provide additional crop yield with the same piece of land and more profitable related to cost benefit.