Analysis of demand for water and its impact on broiler production in Imo state of Nigeria

This study analyzed the demand for water and its effect on the productivity of broiler production in Imo State, Nigeria. Specifically, the objectives were to A) estimating the determinants of water demand in broiler farms, B) examining the level of water consumption relative to recommended standards, C) evaluating the productivity of broiler farmers, and D) identifying constraints to water access. Primary data were collected from 120 broiler farmers using a structured questionnaire and analyzed with descriptive statistics, the broiler water consumption ratio (BWCR), productivity index, and multiple regression models. Results showed that the exponential functional form was the best fit, with an R² of 0.684, indicating that 68.4% of the variation in water demand was explained by farm and bird characteristics. Age of birds (P < 0.05), stock size (P < 0.01), and bird weight (P < 0.10) significantly influenced water demand. Based on the BWCR, 43.3% of broilers consumed water below optimal levels, 25.0% consumed excessively, and only 31.7% were within the recommended range. Farmers demonstrated high productivity with a ratio of 3.30, suggesting efficient input use; however, sustainability is threatened by persistent water constraints. The most pressing challenges were limited access to water distributors (18.5%), scarcity (15.0%), contamination (13.0%), high fuel costs (13.0%), and climate change (13.0%). The findings underscore the need for policy interventions to strengthen rural water infrastructure, promote solar-powered pumping systems, and improve extension services on water-use efficiency. Addressing these issues will enhance both the productivity and resilience of broiler production in water-scarce environments. Keywords: Broiler productivity, Poultry requirements, Water consumption ratio, Water demand, Nigeria