STUDIES ON METHODS OF CONSERVATION OF YAM; Discorea spp. IN BENUE STATE, NIGERIA

This study was conducted to examine methods of yam conservation in Benue State, Nigeria using data analysis. The results of the study show that 85% farmers in Benue state conserve yam. The specie of yam that is more conserved is D. cayenensis-rotundata while 86.25% farmers conserve their yams in barns and 13.75% conserve their yams in heaps. The best conservation treatment is by removing disease seed and 42.5% showed that the purpose was for preservation while 30% and 27.5% were to reduce waste and control diseases respectively. The problems encountered during storage are pest and decay which represent 52% and 25% respectively. Over 90% farmers test the yam seed quality and viability before storage. This project has harnessed different methods of yam conservation and barn remains the best method used by Benue state farmers to minimize postharvest lost.