IDENTIFYING THE LEVEL OF SATISFACTION OF DATE PALM ORCHARD OWNERS REGARDING ADVISORY, PREVENTIVE, AND SUPPLY SERVICES PROVIDED IN AL-SUWAYRA DISTRICT, WASIT GOVERNORATE

Abstract

The research aims to identify the level of satisfaction of date palm orchard owners regarding the advisory, preventive, and supply services provided to them in Al-Suwayra district, Wasit Governorate. The study population consisted of all date palm orchard owners in Al-Suwayra, totaling (1694) individuals. A random sample of (9%) was selected, resulting in a sample size of (152) respondents. Data was collected using a questionnaire covering the satisfaction of orchard owners with the advisory, preventive, and supply services offered to them. The data was analyzed using the SPSS statistical analysis program, assigning weights (1, 2, 3) to the levels of farmers' satisfaction (dissatisfied, somewhat satisfied, satisfied). Thus, the highest value a farmer could receive was (3) and the lowest was (1). The scale was divided into three levels: dissatisfied (1-1.667), somewhat satisfied (1.668-2.334), and satisfied (2.335-3). Statistical methods such as standard deviation and mean were employed.

The results of the first domain indicated that the level of satisfaction among respondents regarding advisory services was somewhat satisfied, with a percentage of (44.7%) and a mean score of (2.058) and a standard deviation of (0.402). For the second domain, the level of satisfaction of date palm orchard owners regarding preventive services was also somewhat satisfied, with a percentage of (45%) and a mean score of (2.005) and a standard deviation of (0.518). In the third domain, the level of satisfaction regarding supply services was somewhat satisfied with a percentage of (47%) and a mean score of (2.105) and a standard deviation of (0.473).

The researcher recommends the formation of a comprehensive technical committee composed of specialized employees in date palm services (advisory, preventive, and agricultural supplies) to oversee the processes related to the cultivation of new orchards, maintenance of existing ones, harvesting, marketing, and processing to achieve the satisfaction of orchard owners. Additionally, it is essential to improve advisory, preventive, and supply services comprehensively to enhance orchard owners' satisfaction and productivity.