This section explains the procedures and instruments utilized in the process of data collection. It also explains the measurements carried out in the process of collection of data for the study.
4.3.1 Procedures for Data Collection
Data collection actually began with a reconnaissance survey of the study area by the researcher, assisted by two guides who were extension workers of the Abuja Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). The extension workers were therefore conversant with the area. The reconnaissance survey, which was undertaken in order to familarise the researcher with the territory
generally, and the sampled settlements in particular, lasted for about one month (November to December 2002). After the reconnaissance survey, field observations commenced and lasted for about five months (covering the period of data collection). This was conducted periodically (between February to December 2003) in order to observe seasonal differences in agroforestry practices. The assistance of guides, as well as a botanist was also engaged. The botanist helped in the identification of botanical nomenclature of some woody components of agroforestry in the territory.
The administration of questionnaire came next. This was done with the help of ten research assistants, who were able to communicate fluently with the farmers. These assistants also had a minimum educational qualification of post Secondary Education.
They were in addition given special training which focused mainly on the interpretation of the questionnaire and the translation of answers onto the questionnaire. The administration of questionnaire lasted for about three months during which the researcher effectively monitored the exercise.
Face to face interviews were conducted by the researcher throughout the period of data collection. Different interviews were conducted among different groups. One was among farmers and rural community members, while another was among research workers, extension workers and experts in agroforestry in the territory. The essence of these interviews was to understand the
knowledge of, and extent of participation in agroforestry by these different groups. The Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was conducted by the researcher and involved discussions with groups of between 5-10 farmers in the sampled communities. This exercise lasted about a month, and involved the use of tape recorders and audio cassettes. The discussions allowed participants to discuss freely on agroforestry, and was recorded for later analysis by the researcher.
4.3.2 Instruments of Data Collection
These include instruments for interview, observation and measurements. The instruments for observation include field note books and pencils, for recording. The instruments for interview include the questionnaire, tape recorders and audio cassettes. The instruments for measurement were as follows:
i. Measuring tapes for determining the sizes of agroforestry farms.
ii. 25kg and 50kg sacks for determining quantity of farm products, especially crops.
iii. Cash for determining value of inputs as well as outputs of agroforestry. It was also used to determine the income of farmers’ household income from agroforestry.
iv. Field notebooks and pencils for recording information.
4.3.3 Field Measurement
Measurement constituted a significant source from which data was collected for this study. Measurement was conducted on farm
sizes, agroforestry combinations, as well as some benefits of agroforestry.
Regarding farm sizes, measuring tapes were used to determine the area of land that is put into agroforestry. Local units of measurement, such as yam heaps, were also used to determine farm sizes. Measurement was also conducted in form of counting of crops, trees and animal species that are combined by farmers in different parts of the territory.
Some benefits of agroforestry were measured as follows:
a. crop yields were measured in sacks, using 50kg sacks, and the number converted to monetary value using market prices, at different seasons.
b. Yams were measured in terms of ‘calabash’ (i.e. 100 tubers of yam), and average annual monetary value determined using market price.
c. Fruits were measured in terms of average baskets and head pans and their average monetary value determined.
d. Firewood was measured in terms of average bundles, and monetary value was also determined using market price.
e. Manure was measured using 50kg sacks, and then value determined in monetary terms.
These benefits were determined for three to five years in order to give a fairly accurate situation, as they accrued to the farmers and their communities.
4.3.4 Field Observation
Field observation constituted a significant aspect of the data collection for this study. This was conducted by the researcher, and was aimed at determining the practices of farmers that constitute agroforestry. Observations were made on the crops cultivated and animals reared as well as the trees grown. It also involved an examination of the period when such practices were conducted, as well as the different spatial and temporal combinations of both annual crops and woody perennial, and also the animal component of agroforestry.
Furthermore, the various forms of agroforestry in different localities were observed. This was to enable an understanding of the spatial arrangement of the different agroforestry components around the settlements. Observations were also made on the contributions or obvious benefits of agroforestry, as well as the problems encountered by the farmers which constituted obstacles to agroforestry in the territory.