Factors affecting decision-making of farmers in weed management (case study of Tokat, Turkey)

This study analyses a weed management survey in Tokat province of Turkey. Four farmers did not use herbicides due to dry farming, unsuitable climatical conditions, low income, small-scale farms, etc. It was hypothesized that there is a relationship between factors taken into consideration while using herbicides and three variables of age, education and agroecological zones. Chi-square (chi(2)) test results show that statistically significant relationships were found between education and dosage, destroying empty boxes or bottles of herbicides, knowledge about active ingredients of herbicides, and use of safety materials. There was also a statistically significant relationship between agro-ecological zones and dosage of herbicides and safety materials. A statistically significant relationship was found between age and destroying empty boxes or bottles and between age and safety materials. In addition, statistically significant relationships were found between weed management and farm size, ecological zones and crop rotation. On the other hand, no statistically significant relationship was found between weed management and irrigation possibility. 97 % of farmers do not have enough knowledge about the EU's agroenvironmental policies (re-registration of agrochemicals). Farmers - scientists - extension staff - private pesticide dealer's interaction is weak.