ECONOMICS OF TRADITIONAL GROUNDNUT PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AMONG MICRO AGRO – ECOLOGICAL FARMERS IN EZZA NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EBONYI STATE, NIGERIA AND EFFECTS ON THE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

The study examined the economics of traditional ground nut production technology among small holder farmers in Ezza North Local Government Area, Ebonyi State, Nigeria and effects on the environment. Structured questionnaire was used to collect the required data. The sample size for the study was sixty (60) farmers who were interviewed and used for the study. Data generated were coded and analyzed using quantitative and qualitative techniques. The result showed that the farmers were relatively young with large household size. Farm enterprise variable result confirmed that the farmers were small holder farmers with wealth of experience. Gross margin analysis obtained established that fixed cost items formed the major components of the total cost of production representing 63% of the cost components. Ground nut production in the study area was established to be profitable with a positive value of ₦2,967,470.59 per annum. Return on investment was also positive with a value of 3.37. This implied that there was a return of three naira, thirty seven kobo ((₦3.37) for every one hundred naira (₦100) invested. Some of the major constraints were use of crude implements, low price, pest and disease infestation among others. It was recommended that ground nut farmers should thrive to increase their production capacity as well as form cooperative society to enjoy the benefits of economies of scale. Several effects of traditional groundnut production technology on the environment were identified. It was recommended that farmers should be enlightened on the implications and the need for environmental friendliness practices.