Increased knowledge on pesticide use through farmers' training and intervention
2023
Manuben, J.J.P. | Sarmiento, J.A. | Cabardo, J.J.S.
Continuous use of pesticides by farmers without discrimination in crop production posed great risk to human health and the environment. These resulted to unintended poisonings, increase pest resistance, and contaminations in food and the environment. To address these concerns, a training was formulated focusing on training farmers in proper pesticide management practices. Smallholder cabbage farmers (n=40) in Lengaoan, Buguias, Benguet [Philippines] were purposively selected, organized and surveyed. Their knowledge on pesticides and pesticide-related practices were recorded and compared before and after the conduct of training. Statistical analysis were performed using McNemar's test and McNemar-Bowker's test. Improvements were observed regarding farmers' pesticide knowledge and practice after the intervention provided. Farmers became aware of the importance of record keeping, placing signs in the field after pesticide application, and the use of personal protective equipment. There was also a significant reduction in the use of pesticides not registered for cabbage production. These outcomes indicate that the training successfully enhanced the farmers' knowledge on proper pesticide selection and application. Overall, this suggest that farmers' training increased compliance on correct pesticide management practices as well as elevated the safety behaviors. It is highly recommended that farmers' training and other extension activities be carried out periodically. This approach will promote the responsible and judicious use of pesticides, safeguarding both crop yields and the well-being of farmers, consumers, and the environment.
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