Farmer’s Perception of Productivity and Profitability of Organic and Conventional tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.)Trotter] Production: Tigray, Northern   Ethiopia

Medhn Berhane*, Zenebe Abreha and Ibrahim Fitiwy

 

Research Paper I Published December,2015

 

Journal of Agricultural Science and Food Technology  Vol. 1 (7), pp.88-93

 

 

ABSTRACT

 

A total of 50 respondents were identified through stratified sampling of organic and conventional farming users and interview schedule was developed and used. The objective of the study was to evaluate teff productivity and profitability under organic and conventional approach and to assess farmers’ perception and preference of organic and conventional teff production. The respondents of both farming systems had common perception on some attributes of organic farming that it makes the soil more fertile, tolerant to shortage of rain fall, stores more moisture, it is good habitat for soil macro  organisms and its straw is preferred by animals as compared to that of conventional farming system. It was also found out that both organic and conventional teffs have no grain storage problem and they experience also similar disease or insect pest occurrence. Organic farming has a profound vitality from the strategic importance of agro-ecological and environmental health point of view, and sustainable crop production system. The farming communities should be encouraged, trained and supported by the government.

Key Words: Organic Farming, Conventional Farming, Productivity, Profitability, tef, Eragrostis tef.
 

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