The AGRA Kaduna Consortium recommends the following actions for farmers to address potential challenges due to heavy rainfall:
1. Prepare for Potential Flooding:
Move livestock and valuable equipment to higher ground to protect them from potential flooding.
If your farm is located in a flood-prone area, construct drainage channels to divert excess water away from your crops.
2. Protect Soil and Crops:
Apply mulch to protect topsoil from erosion caused by heavy rainfall.
- Install barriers along field edges to reduce runoff and prevent soil loss.
- Consider using raised beds for crops that are sensitive to waterlogging to ensure better drainage
3. Adjust any fertilizer/ spraying of pesticide/ herbicide schedules:
-Delay any fertilizer application, pesticide, or herbicide spraying until after the heavy rainfall period, if possible, to avoid wastage and environmental contamination.
4. Stay informed:
- Regularly check AGRA Project social media for updated Nimet weather reports and forecasts.
5. Plan for water management:
- Clean and maintain existing drainage systems on your farm.
- Consider installing rainwater harvesting systems to capture excess water for future use.
Remember to prioritize personal safety. If you need more specific advice tailored to your particular crops or farming practices, consider consulting with your community based adviser or Extension agent