CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY

Bush burning is a traditional method of land preparation commonly practised by farmers in Edo State. Generally, and particularly in Ekiadolor, within Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, bush burning involves the use of fire to clear vegetation and agricultural debris from the surface of the land in preparation for cultivation. Although this method is widely used by farmers, it can cause considerable damage to trees, crops, and other components of the environment. The consequences of bush burning are not limited to farmers alone; therefore, the practice deserves serious attention because of its potential effects on the environment and agricultural productivity. In addition, uncontrolled fires may spread beyond the intended farmland, destroying neighbouring farms, vegetation, and other valuable properties. The adoption of bush burning as a farming practice may have developed from farmers' observations of the effects of fire and the usefulness of the ash left behind after burning materials. However, fire can spread uncontrollably and destroy other resources within the surrounding environment.

The burning of farmland before planting has significant implications for soil fertility. During the burning process, some essential plant nutrients may be lost through volatilisation, particularly nutrients such as nitrogen and sulphur. Although the ash produced from burnt vegetation may contain certain nutrients, including phosphorus and potassium, these nutrients can be easily removed from the soil through rainfall and surface runoff. Consequently, the benefits associated with the ash may be temporary, while the long-term effects of repeated burning may negatively influence soil productivity. Furthermore, the heat generated during bush burning can create unfavourable conditions for soil organisms, including earthworms and beneficial bacteria, which contribute to the decomposition of organic matter and the maintenance of soil fertility.

The adoption of bush burning as a method of land preparation may also have resulted from farmers' observations that certain seeds discarded on the land could germinate after the vegetation had been burnt. Such observations may have encouraged the incorporation of burning into traditional farming practices. Historically, the use of fire in agricultural land preparation has existed for many generations, particularly where farmers clear vegetation and remove plant residues before cultivation. This practice occurs on both small-scale and large-scale farms, where burning is sometimes used to dispose of vegetation accumulated during land clearing. Apart from its use in preparing farmland, bush burning may also be employed to trap or capture animals. Despite these perceived benefits, the practice raises concerns about its effects on soil properties, crop growth, vegetation, and the long-term sustainability of agricultural land.

1.2 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

Bush burning has become a common component of farming activities in the study area, and its potential negative consequences may not always receive adequate consideration from farmers. It is therefore necessary to examine and explain the harmful effects of bush burning on agricultural land. This study seeks to increase farmers' awareness of the possible consequences of the practice on soil quality, crop production, and the general condition of farmland. By providing information on these effects, the study is intended to encourage farmers to recognise the risks associated with uncontrolled or repeated burning and to consider more sustainable methods of land preparation.

1.3 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Since bush burning is widely used as a method of preparing agricultural land, it is important to investigate its effects on farmland and agricultural activities. This study is significant because it examines the extent to which bush burning has affected agricultural land in Ekiadolor, within Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. The findings are expected to provide useful information about the implications of the practice for soil fertility, crop development, and the general productivity of agricultural land.

Furthermore, the study may help farmers understand the environmental and agricultural consequences of bush burning and encourage them to adopt alternative land preparation methods that can reduce the need for burning. The findings may also serve as a useful reference for students, researchers, agricultural extension workers, and other individuals interested in sustainable farming practices and the protection of agricultural land.

1.4 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study is restricted to Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, with particular attention to selected towns and villages where farming activities are extensively practised and bush burning is commonly used during land preparation. These locations include Ekiadolor, Evboneka, Ughoton, and other relevant communities within the local government area.

The study focuses on the effects of bush burning on agricultural land, including its implications for soil properties, economic tree crops, crop plants, and farming practices. It also considers the use of bush burning as a method of weed control and land preparation. The geographical coverage of the research is limited to the selected locations because of certain constraints associated with the conduct of the study.

1.5 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

The main aim of this study is to examine the effects of bush burning on agricultural land in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

The specific objectives are to:

1. Examine the effects of bush burning on economic tree crops within the study area.
2. Investigate the effects of bush burning on different soil structures and properties.
3. Assess the relationship between bush burning and the condition of agricultural land in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
4. Examine the effects of bush burning on crop plants and their growth.
5. Identify the major effects of bush burning on agricultural land in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.
6. Assess the use of bush burning as a method of weed control in agricultural land preparation.

1.6 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Bush burning remains a significant concern in agricultural land management in contemporary society, particularly in Ekiadolor and other communities within Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State. Although farmers commonly employ this practice to clear vegetation, prepare farmland, and control weeds, its possible effects on soil fertility, crop plants, economic tree crops, and the general condition of agricultural land require careful investigation.

The continued use of bush burning raises questions about whether its immediate benefits outweigh its potential negative consequences for agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. It is therefore necessary to examine the reasons farmers engage in the practice, the benefits they associate with it, and the problems it may create for farmland.

In order to address these concerns, the study seeks to answer the following research questions:

1. Does bush burning have any effect on farm crops and other cultivated plants?
2. Does bush burning reduce weed growth and serve as an effective method of weed control?
3. Is bush burning used as a method of controlling or eliminating agricultural pests?
4. Do farmers consider bush burning the cheapest method of preparing agricultural land for cultivation?