Use of Fertilizers and Pesticides in Vegetable Growing and their Impact on the Ecosystem in the Comoé River Watershed, Burkina Faso

Background an Aims: The use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers has been practised for centuries to control pests and increase agricultural productivity. However, mismanagement of these products can entail health and environmental risks. This study was initiated to assess the impact of these practices on the CRW ecosystem. The aim of this study is to characterize pesticide and fertilizer use practices in vegetable growing in the Comoé river watershed (CRW).

Study Design: This study was carried out on a sample of market gardeners chosen randomly. Data collection was done transversally.

Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Western Burkina Faso during the dry period of 2020. It concerned market gardeners who carry out their activity in the Comoé Basin.

Methodology: To this end, a survey was carried out among a representative sample of 204 vegetable growers. The survey sheet was used to collect information on the level of education, speculations, origins of fertilizers and pesticides, and the management of fertilizers and pesticides in the CRW.

Results: The study revealed that local vegetable growers use both organic and chemical fertilizers. They obtain their supplies from the local market. In fact, 91% of the vegetable growers interviewed use both types of fertilizer. Growers are unaware of the validity period of the products they use. In addition, 48% of growers say they do not know or do not pay attention to the expiry date of products. Furthermore, 82% of growers do not master fertilizer application doses. Current pesticide and fertilizer use practices are risky, and the dangers incurred are pollution, particularly water pollution, and its consequences on human and environmental health (soil, vegetation, etc.). It would therefore be wise to encourage and promote biological pest control in order to preserve human and animal health and the environment.