(a) Define the term Taungya system. (b) State five conditions that favour the practice of taungya system in Nigeria. (c) State two advantages of the system ...

Answer Details

(a) Taungya system

The taungya system is a method of combined forestry and crop production in which farmers are allowed to grow arable food crops in between young forest tree seedlings on forest land. The farmers tend both their crops and the young trees until the trees form a canopy, after which cropping stops.

(b) Five conditions that favour the practice of the taungya system in Nigeria

• Availability of forest land or forest reserve to be planted with trees.
• Shortage of farmland (land hunger) that makes farmers willing to use forest land.
• Availability of willing farmers who can supply the needed labour.
• Suitable food crops that do not compete strongly with the young trees for light and nutrients.
• Good cooperation and agreement between the forestry department and the farmers, and a climate suitable for both trees and crops.

(c) Two advantages of the system to each party

(i) To the farmer

• He obtains fertile forest land to grow food crops free of charge or at low cost.
• He earns income and food from the crops produced, and gains employment.

(ii) To the forester

• The cost of raising and tending the forest plantation is reduced because the farmers weed and care for the young trees.
• It ensures the successful establishment of the forest plantation and reduces weed growth and fire risk.