Evaluating the economic impact of integrated pest management (IPM) on smallholder date palms farmers

Abstract This study evaluates the economic impact on date palm farmers in Al-Ahsa Governorate who use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) to control the red palm weevil. The results show that 49% of farmers apply this method on their own, while 51% rely on the support of the Directorate of Agriculture. Farms using IPM have higher average yields per palm compared to those that do not, showing the advantages of IPM. Although farmers using IPM face a 54% increase in operating costs, their net farm income is not significantly different at the 5% level. These findings suggest that while IPM increases productivity, its cost implications may offset profitability in the short term. This research suggests that IPM for red palm weevil control can improve economic results and support environmental sustainability in date farming. Additionally, it contributes new evidence from a high-density palm region, addressing a significant research gap in the Saudi agricultural context. It also highlights the importance of specific strategies to encourage sustainable farming practices.