DETERMINANTS OF SORGHUM BIOMASS USE FOR LIVESTOCK FEED ACROSS SORGHUM GROWING AGROECOLOGICAL ZONES IN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

Background. In mixed crop livestock farming systems in Ethiopia, sorghum stover and other crop residues are a strategic livestock feed resource. Farmer’s decisions and intensity of use of sorghum stover for feed than other uses are closely associated with biophysical and socioeconomic characteristics. Objective. This study explores determinants of sorghum biomass uses for livestock feed in three major sorghum growing agroecological zones of Ethiopia. Methodology. Tobit and double hurdle models were run and likelihood ratio test was performed to select most suitable estimation technique. Result. Allocation of sorghum stover for feed showed a significant association with sorghum growing agro-ecological zones, highest in the lowland (86.73%) and the lowest in highland sorghum growing agroecological area (61.75%). Econometric model result revealed that among other factors; availability of feed from grazing and other crop residues had a negative effect on decision to use and intensity of use of sorghum stover for feed. Household’s livestock ownership and family size had positive effects. Implication. Decision variables influenced household’s decision and intensity on use of sorghum stover for feed at three major sorghum growing zone differently. Conclusion. Knowledge generated through this study may help any research and development efforts to enhance productivity of sorghum biomass for livestock feed and livestock improvement strategies.