ABSTRACT
Abstract: The study assessed sustainability of maize-based production practices among small-scale maize farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria. Purposive and random sampling techniques were used to select 180 respondents used for the study while data were generated using questionnaires. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data generated. The study indicated that the existing sustainable maize-based production practices that can enhance maize production in the area were adequate fertilizer use (x ̅=4.13), pest and disease control (x ̅=3.84), planting of hybrid maize (x ̅=3.66), use of animal manure (x ̅=3.57), planting cover crop (x ̅=3.51) and early planting (x ̅=3.20). Also, the result shows that maize production in the study area is somewhat sustainable since the sustainability index of 51.0% was recorded which is little above average score. Finally, on the constraints militating against sustainability of maize production, the farmers observed that economic problems such as high labour cost (0.802), high cost of fertilizer (0.796), high price of quality seed (0.710), inadequate capital (0.645) and low cost of cob (0.582) posed the greatest threat to sustainability of maize production followed by natural factors such as erosion menace (0.643), incidence of pest and diseases (0.629), destruction of cobs by flood, drought and storms (0.625) and destruction of cobs by other animals (0.588); while social factors such as lack or no access to land (0.892) and poor infrastructure (0.642) were not left out. Based on the findings of the study, there is need for the Government, relevant non-governmental bodies and stakeholders to invest in the sustainability of maize production among small-scale farmers, in order to ensure steady supply of maize and it products at a cheaper price, by providing necessary and dependable assistants such as provision of subsidized inputs and low interest loans.

ABSTRACT
Abstract: Background: The destruction of vegetation cover is among the main factors contributing to climate variation. The study investigated the distribution of trees, shrubs and herbs in the mined and unmined communities of Bontefufuo namely: Esaase, Manhyia, Aboabo and Mpatuam. The research was intended to determine the relationship between the spatial distribution of vegetation, composition and examine the effects of vegetation loss in the area. A total of forty 40 plots (10 m x 10 m) were studied. In each community, five (5) plots were studied each for mined and unmined areas. Results: The mean numbers of plant population were determined and analyzed using ANOVA. There were significant differences among the tree, shrub and herb populations at P<0.05. The number of shrubs and trees population was reduced in the mined areas in relation to the areas that are not mined. Herbs were overwhelming within the mined regions and were found to be much higher than within the unmined regions. Photographic images showed that the practices of illicit small-scale mining contributed to land destruction by compacting the topsoil and accumulation of laterites. Conclusion: Climate change issues still remain a global concern and vegetation cover which plays an imperative role in regulating the carbon dioxide concentration of the atmosphere should be restored.

ABSTRACT
Abstract: Lowlands constitute major environment for rice cultivation in Kenya, but declining soil productivity has led to low poor quality yields. This study assessed soil and yield quality of rice in Mwea irrigation scheme. Surface 0-15cm soil was sampled for laboratory analysis. Rice straw and grain was collected and analysed for total nutrient. Results obtained for soil and plant was evaluated basing on nutrient guidelines for rice. Results indicated that soil pH was moderately high and salt concentration negligible (< 0.4 dS/m). Soil total carbon was moderately high while total nitrogen was low. Available phosphorus, sulphur and silica all exceeded deficiency level for rice. Exchangeable Ca2+ and Mg2+ dominated compared to exchangeable K+ and Na+; and as a result severe K+ deficiency because of cation imbalance existed. Among micronutrients, soil Fe, Mn and Cu were high while Zn was deficient. Grain yields were below optimum and plant analyses revealed deficiencies in straw total sulphur, K and Ca in some units. Grain samples showed deficiency in total Ca, Fe, K, Mg and S. Soil condition and nutrient concentrations affected nutrient accumulation in straw and grain. Appropriate soil management practices should be considered for improved quality and quantity of yields.

ABSTRACT
Abstract: Soil fertility maps namely pH, EC, OC (Physical parameters); P, K (Macro nutrients) and Zn, Fe, Cu, Mn (Micro nutrients) were generated using Geographic Information System from grid wise soil health data. The study revealed that soils of Ri Bhoi district is non saline with high organic carbon content. It is observed that soils of 68.87% area of the district are slightly acidic and 26.22% soils are moderately acidic in nature. The availability of phosphorus is medium in 73.93% soils followed by high and low phosphorus that covers 14.16% and 11.91% area respectively. The highest area (i.e.66.49%) of the district is having medium available potassium followed by high and low potassium that covers 19.97% and 13.60% area respectively. The soils of the study district are mostly rich in micronutrients and more than 80% areas are sufficient in micronutrient contents. Only 15.48% area is deficient in zinc whereas iron, copper and manganese is deficient in <1%, 1.02% and 6.06 % areas respectively.

ABSTRACT
Abstract: The study was carried out in order to assess the perception of Farmers on Trees outside Forest (Trees on Agricultural Lands) in Gaya Local Government Area of Kano State. Stratified random sampling was used, the study area was partitioned in to eleven wards from which three wards were selected at random; selection of villages was done proportionally from the selected wards. One hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were administered to farmers. Data collection was done through direct contact with farmers. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analyzing the data. Charts, frequency distribution and percentages were used to preset demographic information while chi-square test of association was used to check relationship between socio-economic characteristics and tree planting on farm lands. The results obtained on demography showed that, majority of the respondents fall between 48-58 years, about 91% are male and 9% are female, 94% are farmers and 92% are married. Chi-square result revealed no significant association between socio-economic characteristics finally, age and house hold size shows significant association with tree planting.

ABSTRACT
Abstract: Kenyan’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture which contributes greatly to gross domestic products (GDP). Nearly 80% of the country’s population resides in the rural areas and are engaged directly in agricultural activities which account for over 75% of the total agricultural output. In addition, the sector contributes to food security, employment opportunities and income generation as well as nutritional balance to the farming families. It is therefore enough to say, agriculture still remains the backbone of the country’s economy because of what it offers. Kenya has a huge potential of water resources including rivers, lakes and dams for the development of irrigation systems however, the country still continues to import food especially maize despite having ability to feed its own citizens. To solve the paradox of food insecurity, irrigation technologies need to in place. This paper therefore tries to compares the yields before and after the introduction of irrigation technologies in Kenya, precisely in Kimira-Oluch irrigation scheme using a paired t-test to determine whether there is statistically significant difference between productions level per unit area of selected crops (Maize, Rice and Kales) for participants of rainfed (before irrigation) and irrigated agriculture participants. From the results it was observed that, calculated value (observed) of t was found to be -0.5150 which was in the acceptance region and thus, we accept H0 and conclude that the difference in yields before irrigation (rainfed agriculture) and after irrigation (irrigated agriculture) is insignificance hence we can infer that irrigation technologies is not applied effectively in Kimira-Oluch thus resulting to a low yields. This is a clear indication that most of the factors of production such as irrigation waters and land are underutilized. The study will assist the policy makers and irrigation stakeholder to shift focus on innovations or technologies that.............