Estimation of resource productivity in irish potato production in Jos south local government area of Plateau State Nigeria.

Abstract

This study examined resource productivity and profitability of Irish potato production in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State. Primary data was used for the purpose of this study and was obtained through the use of questionnaire. A random sample of 100 Irish potato farmers was made from four major producing communities. The data obtained were analysis using Cobb-Douglas production function and farm budgeting model. Results show that Irish potato production in the area is profitable farmers having a gross margin and net farm income of N32,869.60 and N27,116.80 respectively. The result also show that only farm size and quantity of fertilizer used had statistically significant influence on output and farm size have the highest marginal physical product of 4.797kg. Summation of the elasticity of production of the inputs indicates increasing return to scale. Therefore, there is need for resource adjustment in favour of increased farm size and fertilizer usage.