International Journal of Agricultural Research, Innovation and Technology

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”.