Survey of Waste Management Practices of Small-Scale Pig Farms in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria

Résumé

Animal manure can provide nutrients for crop and fish production and input for biogas production but, if managed inappropriately, can also have a negative impact on the environment. The objective of this survey was to provide information about pig production and waste management practices in Mbaise, Imo State in order to identify and prioritize research needs for future improvements in pig manure management. A survey was conducted by in-depth interviews on 35 pig farms in Mbaise, Imo State. A large proportion (94.29%) of the total manure produced was discharged in open space. Of the 35 householders interviewed, 24(68.57%) believed that animal waste caused serious damage to the environment. Farmers interviewed had little or no expertise in handling liquid manure, composting solid manure. The survey implied that more information to farmers, as well as stronger regulation of manure management, is needed in Imo State.