Extension Needs in Clean Cassava Stalk Production among Farmers in Kaeng Sanam Nang District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province

Abstract

The objective of this study was to investigate extension needs in clean cassava stalk production among farmers in Kaeng Sanam Nang district, Nakhon Ratchasima province. Data were collected from a sample of 175 cassava farmers using a questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis, and Spearman’s rank correlation was used to test the hypotheses. The results revealed that most farmers cultivated the Kasetsart 50 cassava variety (92.00%) and produced stalk cuttings for their own use (64.57%). Farmers demonstrated a high level of knowledge regarding cassava stalk production ( = 16.11 out of 25 points). The major problem in cassava stalk production identified was the inability to provide adequate and consistent water during the dry season ( = 4.06). Farmers expressed a strong need for support in selecting cassava varieties suitable for their areas, as well as in planning for production and marketing. In terms of extension methods, they preferred receiving support through agricultural extension officers, demonstration plots for clean cassava stalk production, and research support for developing high-yield and disease-resistant cassava varieties. The hypothesis testing showed that farmers’ knowledge of cassava stalk production was significantly correlated with both production problems and the need for extension services at the 0.01 statistical significance level. Therefore, it is advisable to promote knowledge on selecting cassava varieties suitable for their local conditions and water management during the dry season through demonstration plots. This should be carried out in parallel with the development of marketing channels and the provision of disease-resistant varieties to farmers.