Farmers’ Perception of Climate Variability Effects on Arable Crop Productivity in Ondo State, Nigeria

This study investigated the perceptions of arable farmers in Ondo State, Nigeria, about the effects of climate variability on the production of their crops, as well as the coping methods employed to reduce the perceived consequences. Using a multistage random sample approach, 120 participants were selected for the study. The gathered information was analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation. The average age of the farmers was found to be 48.44 years, and the majority of them hold a postsecondary degree (45%). Findings indicated that a rise in temperature, an increase in precipitation, a longer rainy season, and a shorter dry season were the most noticeable indicators of climate variability. In addition, the majority of farmers reported that a shorter dry season (71.7%), a longer rainy season (65%), a rise in rainfall (55.8%),and an increase in temperature (50.8%) enhanced agricultural output. Crop rotation (83.3%), planting of different crops (82.5%), adoption of mixed cropping (78.3%), moving to a different area (66.7%), use of chemicals, fertilizer, and pesticides (65.8%), different planting dates, increasing farm size, and planting of cover crops (65%), and planting of different varieties (64.2%) are the major coping strategies adopted by the majority of farmers. Additionally, planting different crops varieties at different time, shifting cultivation, expansion in farm size, adoption of routine practices such as irrigation, application of agro-chemicals, fertilizers and pesticides had significant impact on farming experience. This study reveals that farmers are well-informed about climate variability, its dangers and challenges it poses on production, hence, there is need for necessary precautions to manage the risks. It also advises and provides farmers with needed climatic information in form of forecast in order for them to be well informed, prepared, and engage in proactive measures for future planting seasons, as opposed to being only reactive. Therefore, agencies such meterological and association of commercial extension professionals should continue in providing up to date report on climate change and its subsequent effect on crop production.