Correlation Matrix Of Farmers Perceived Objectives In Crop Production In Emohua And Etche Local Government Areas Of Rivers State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the correlation matrix of farmers perceived objectives in crop production in Emohua and Etche local government areas of Rivers State, Nigeria. Data for the study was from 77 farmers in the study area. It was found that small holder farmers have multiple objectives which were ranked according to their preferences. The satisfaction of basic household food requirement which was ranked first influenced all the other stated objectives. The satisfaction of basic household food requirement was negatively correlated with profit maximization showing that operating at the subsistence level may not give room for profit maximization in crop production. The study revealed farmers\' preference for cassava compared to other crops. To this end, it is recommended that farmers should form themselves into cooperative groupings through which they can easily support for their farm activities.

Keywords: small scale farmers, crop production behaviour, objectives

Global Approaches to Extension Practice Vol. 3 (2) 2007: pp. 55-61