Factors Affecting Extension Needs in Maize Production of Farmers in Wangmun Sub-district, Samngao District, Tak Province

Abstract

The objective of this research was to analyze factor affecting the extension needs of maize farmers.  The population consisted of farmers growing maize in Wang Man subdistrict, Sam Ngao district, Tak province, registered with the Sam Ngao District Agricultural Office in 2023. The total population was 563 people. The sample size was determined using Taro Yamane formula with a tolerance of 0.05, resulting in a sample of 234 selected by a simple random sampling. Data collection was conducted using an interview form. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics using frequency distribution, percentage, minimum, maximum, average, standard deviation, and multiple regression analysis. The results found that most of the farmers were female, with an average age of 53.83 years. The average of training experience in growing maize was 4.71 years. The average of area maize production area 11.32 years. The average maize yield was 1,355 kilogram per rai, and the average selling price was 6.78 baht per kilogram. Farmers expressed a highest level of encouragement in maize production with a need for production credit support, extension methods from agricultural extension officers and a desire for marketing knowledge. Factors affecting the farmers' extension needs in maize production included one independent variable: the average of price maize product with a positively statistical significance level at 0.01.