THE CURRENT STATE OF PESTICIDE USE BY FARMERS IN RICE CULTIVATION IN TRANG BANG TOWN - TAY NINH PROVINCE

Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate and evaluate the current status of pesticide use in rice cultivation in Trang Bang Town, Tay Ninh Province. Primary data was collected through a sociological survey and interviews with representatives of farming households in the study area, while secondary data was obtained from the town's environmental resources department. The results showed that pesticides were frequently used in cultivation, 27 types of pesticides were commonly applied in Trang Bang Town. Farmers placed greater emphasis on pesticide efficiency (91.30%) and cost (88.69%) than on related environmental issues (44.35% - 52.17%) and health impacts (67.83%). Pesticide usage was often based on farming experience (30.43%), and farmers did not strictly adhere to technical regulations and guidelines regarding dosage and application methods. While farmers were aware of the need to collect pesticide packaging, they did not consistently sort and store it separately, with many households mixing it with household waste. There is a need to intensify outreach and training activities to enhance farmers' understanding of the properties, usage, and environmental and health impacts of pesticides, enabling them to make informed decisions when using these chemicals.