FARMERS’ AWARENESS OF DESERTIFICATION CAUSES IN AL-AFLAJ, SAUDI ARABIA

Desertification leads to land degradation, yield reduction, biodiversity loss, poverty, hunger, and adverse effects on the natural environment. Saudi Arabia has a desert climate, with some parts of the country, particularly in the southwest, maintaining semi-arid conditions. The current study aimed to understand farmers’ awareness about desertification causes in Saudi Arabia. This knowledge is essential for designing and implementing effective interventions that promote sustainable agricultural practices to combat desertification. Data were collected from farmers in the Al-Aflaj governorate in Saudi Arabia, using a simple random sampling technique with the help of a pre-tested paper-based questionnaire. The findings showed that the majority of the farmers were highly aware of the causes of desertification. Farmers’ age, education level, residence, and access to agricultural extension information all had a significant impact on their awareness of the causes of desertification. The study suggests that extension education programs, with the active participation of the ecology department, should be implemented to raise farmer awareness. Furthermore, the government must facilitate the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices and innovative measures to combat desertification.