Determination of Knowledge Level of Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) Growers on Agricultural Pest Control: The Case of Province Siirt, Turkey

This study was carried out in order to determine the knowledge levels of pistachio producers in Siirt province about the use of pesticides in the agricultural pest control, to examine environmental sensitivity and to propose the most effective control methods against pests. The study was performed in Siirt province of Turkey, which has significant potential in pistachio production. In this study, a survey consisting of 45 questions was applied to 100 people by random methods at 95% confidence level and 10% error level. The results of the survey were analysed by statistical analysis methods, and the averages were evaluated as percentage. According to the findings, it was found that 71% of the growers did not prepare the pesticide dose according to the label, 66% use pesticides regardless of the intensity of the pests, 83% did not know the biological pest control and 88% did not have any information about the integrated pest management. As a result of the study, it was found out that producers have low education levels, excessive pesticide use behaviour and they are careless about human, environmental health and biodiversity. In conclusion, we believe that it will be extremely helpful to organize regular trainings for pistachio growers by the relevant institutions on agricultural pest control.