A manual for extension workers with special reference to Africa
This manual is intended to be a guide for extension workers. Its use should allow them to understand post-harvest issues concerning grains and, therefore, be able to advise farmers. For the purpose of this manual the term grain is used to include cereals (maize, sorghum, millet, wheat and rice), pulses and oilseeds. The term pulse refers to all kinds of legumes such as beans and peas.
The objective of the manual is to provide practical information on issues that occur during and following harvesting. The manual is not concerned with cultivation practices or with the control of pests during crop growth but it is primarily concerned with the storage of grain crops. However, cultivation, harvesting and other pre-storage issues that impinge on post-harvest quality are discussed, such as fungal and insect problems that occur once the crop has matured.
The manual is divided into four main sections. The first section describes the role of the extension worker in obtaining information regarding the specific problems faced by farmers and how to share and impart knowledge and advice. The second section deals with the major causes of deterioration such as moulds, insects and rodents, and how to prevent and control these losses. The third section describes traditional and improved types of storage, and the final section provides general recommendations for good storage practice.
AGS main series:
Agricultural and Food Engineering Training and Resource Materials