UTILIZATION OF GARRETT SCORING METHODS FOR EVALUATING ONION FARMERS' CHALLENGES CONCERNING POST-HARVEST LOSSES IN FUNTUA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KATSINA STATE

Abstract

The study examined the utilization of Garrett scoring methods for evaluating onion farmers challenges concerning post-harvest losses of onions in Funtua Local Government Area of Katsina State, Nigeria. Analysing the extent, causes, and economic ramifications of post-harvest losses in onion production was the goal of the study. A total of 123 onion farmers were selected for the study.  Data were collected using questionnaire between March and May 2025 on their key restrictions connected with post-harvest losses on onion. Six rating scales were used in this study to evaluate farmers' preferences. Factors are arranged in descending order of mean Garrett scores to identify the most critical contributors to post-harvest losses. The first rank of the total estimated factors rank is shown by the highest percentage     average score, while the last rank is indicated by the lowest percentage average score.

The result revealed that  poor storage facilities (77.0) is the most critical issue, indicating a need for low-cost ventilated storage units and training on onion curing techniques. The second was pest infestation (61.0) followed by transportation damage (57.0) while last according to the finding was Market price volatility with (23.0).The Garrett Ranking Technique provides a structured approach to prioritize post-harvest loss factors, helping policymakers and agricultural stakeholders allocate resources effectively. Applying this method in Nigeria can guide targeted interventions to enhance vegetable supply chains and reduce economic losses.  The findings suggest that storage and pest management should be the primary focus for policymakers and agricultural extension services.