THE ROLE OF TREES IN INTEGRATED FARMING SYSTEMS IN BAUCHI

Abstract

With the aid of structured questionnaires, the role of farm trees in an integrated farming system in Bauchi State was investigated. The prevailing ecological zones in the state were used as strata which paved way for stratified random sampling technique to be employed in data collection. Three Local Government Areas (LGAs) each were used from each of the three ecological zones (Northern Guinea Savanna, Sudan Savanna and Sahel Savanna). Within the nine study LGAs, a total of ninety questionnaires were distributed among farmers practicing integrated farming in Bauchi State. The results show that out of many tree species, ten were found to be used for a variety of uses: medicine, farm tools handle, fuel wood, forage, timber and food. The respondents practiced different forms of integrated farming: crop production and tree culture, animal husbandry and tree culture, tree culture and aquaculture, and crop production and animal husbandry. The study also reveals the level of awareness of the farmers on indirect uses of farm trees: protection of farm crops, provision of shade, erosion control and increase soil fertility. Classification of farm trees based on calorific value and packaging of fruit base products of the integrated farming system in Bauchi State were recommended among others.