This study employed the use of the Probit Multiple Regression Model in analysing the effect
of arable crop production practices employed by farmers in Edo State on environmental
degradation. The objective was to identify any gap(s) that may exist in the current farming
practices, and the interventions required towards the evolution of more sustainable practices.
A multi-stage sampling technique was employed in selecting 150 arable crop farmers drawn
from the study area. This study show that most of the arable crop farmers cleared and burnt
their farmland before cropping, with majority (80.7%) allowing their farmlands to be left
fallow for between two and three years before farming it again. Most of the farmers practiced
zero tillage. Result of the Probit Multiple Regression Model, the practice of bush
burning/clearing by the farmers would continue to encourage environmental degradation.
Complete tillage did not result in the degrading of the environment. The critical
environmental issues emanating from this study are soil nutrient depletion through bush
clearing/burning, soil degradation by erosion, weed and pest invasion; all culminating in
sustained low productivity. Sustained growth in agricultural productivity and farmers’
prosperity without environmental exploitation and degradation is possible. Education of
arable crop producers can be used to teach such economic planning that would help reduce
the problem of poverty and allow for resource-poor smallholder rural farmers to improve
their indigenous knowledge and technical knowhow to harness the natural environment in a
more sustainable and prosperous manner.
