Perceived Effects of Quarry Activities on Arable Crop Production in Calabar Agricultural Zone, Cross River State, Nigeria

Abstract

Quarry activities are important to modern day life and the socio-economic development of local communities. However, their effects on agriculture are serious and remain unabated. This study examined the perceived effects of quarry activities on arable crop production in the Calabar agricultural zone, Cross River State, Nigeria. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 120 household heads. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires and were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Majority (94.2%) of farmers identified marble and granite extractions as main types of quarry activities practiced. Two most severely perceived effects of quarry activities on crop production were: pollutants from quarry activities affecting yields of crops (Mean Score {MS}: 4.42), and particulate matter released during quarry activities makes vegetables unattractive (MS: 3.97). Significant effects of quarry activities on the health of farmers were: prevalence of cough/catarrh (MS: 4.88), asthma (MS: 3.83), and respiratory diseases (MS: 3.67). Use of face masks to protect nostrils when farming (MS: 4.42), planting early maturing crops (MS: 4.32) and diversification of farm enterprise (MS: 4.03) were the first three coping strategies adopted by farmers. The study recommended that quarry industries should provide funds for reclaiming damaged arable lands and free medical check-up to farmers.