AN ASSESSMENT OF LOCAL ADAPTATION STRATEGIES EMPLOYED BY FARMERS TO CLIMATE-INDUCED AGRICULTURAL CHALLENGES IN BAYELSA STATE

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity and food security, particularly in vulnerable regions like the Niger Delta. This study provided an assessment of the local adaptation strategies employed by farmers in Bayelsa State, Nigeria, to mitigate climate-induced agricultural challenges. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, utilizing data from both primary and secondary sources. The study equally employed the use of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) as template of analysis. The findings revealed that farmers are experiencing notable climatic disruptions, including unpredictable rainfall patterns, increased frequency of floods, and rising temperatures, which have led to crop failure, soil degradation, and reduced yields. In response, farmers have developed and implemented a range of local adaptation strategies. Key strategies identified include the adoption of flood-resistant crop varieties, the use of floating beds (traditional integrated farming systems), diversification of livelihoods (e.g., combining farming with fishing), and adjustments in planting schedules. However, the study also found that the effectiveness of these strategies is constrained by several factors, such as limited access to climate information, poor state of infrastructure, and a lack of financial resources. The research recommended the integration of local adaptation practices into formal agricultural extension services and the urgent provision of climate-resilient infrastructure to bolster the adaptive capacity of farmers in Bayelsa State. It concluded that while indigenous knowledge and local innovation are crucial for resilience, they are insufficient without external support.