Adoption of Improved Forage Crops by Smallholder Dairy Farmers: Evidence from the Central Highland of Ethiopia

Various improved forage crops have been introduced to enhance the quality and quantity of livestock feed in Ethiopia. However, their widespread adoption remains very limited and insignificant for various reasons. This study investigates the major factors determining the adoption of cultivated forage crops in the Debrelibanos district of Ethiopia. The study applied a mixed-method research design. A structured questionnaire was employed to gather quantitative data from 319 sample farmers. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were conducted to validate and support the quantitative findings. Additionally, secondary data were utilized to complement the primary data. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric models. A binary logistic and Tobit regression model analysis was conducted to investigate factors influencing the adoption and intensity of cultivated forage crops by smallholder dairy farmers. The results of the binary logit analysis revealed that the adoption of cultivated forage crops is positively and significantly influenced by the age of the household head, education, distance to market, extension contact, training, field day participation, and ownership of improved cattle. Furthermore, estimates from the Tobit model showed that education, distance to market, extension contact, field day participation, and ownership of improved cattle positively and significantly influenced the intensity of adoption of cultivated forage crops. In general, the study findings emphasize the significance of addressing socio-economic and institutional constraints related to education, market distance, extension contact, training participation, field day events, and improved cattle ownership. These factors would help enhance the adoption rate and intensity of cultivated forage crops, ultimately contributing to improving the income and livelihoods of rural smallholder dairy farmers in Ethiopia, particularly in Oromia.