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Quantification of Current use and Management of Pesticides by Farmers in Oriental Morocco: The Case of Berkane District, Morocco

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Author Affiliations

  • 1University Medi Faculty of Sciences Oujda, MORROCO
  • 2 Municipal Office of Public Health Berkane, MORROCO

Int. Res. J. Earth Sci., Volume 3, Issue (3), Pages 4-8, March,25 (2015)

Abstract

Little is known about agricultural pest management and pesticide uses by farmers in oriental Morocco. No information exists on the quantities of pesticide applications, nor the knowledge and management of these agrochemical products used. Our objectives were to determine the extent of pesticide uses and agricultural pest knowledge of farmers in this region. A structured questionnaire survey was carried out. The area comprises Berkane district, a rural region known by a great agriculture activity. 140 interviewers, including farmers, sellers and producers, using a standardized questionnaire were randomly selected to quantify the pesticides used in this region and to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward these chemicals. We found that more than 280 tons are used with a ratio use of 7kg/Ha, furthermore the farmers had a low level of education, and lack knowledge on pesticide dangers. In this work we attempt to highlighted the use of contraband pesticides in this area. Besides the misuse of pesticides and the preventive measure taken were low in correlation with the educational level. Pesticide safety education is necessary in order to induce protective behavior among farmers. The government must ensure a proper legislation toward phytosanitary product to fight the use of smuggled product and sensitize the users about their danger.

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