Problems and threats related to the quality of soils in rural areas in Poland in farmers’ awareness – based on questionnaire surveys

Abstract

The paper is based on the results of a survey conducted among the participants of 12 training courses organized within the project „Protection of soil biodiversity as a condition of health of present and future generations” No. POIS.02.04.00-00-0082/16 in 2018–2019. The aim of the survey was to assess the environmental awareness of the respondents in terms of the quality and productivity of cultivated soils in Poland and methods of their protection. The questionnaire included general questions about the specificity of the farm management and aspects of problems related to soil, fertilization, protection of plants against diseases and pests, and climate change. The analysis of the results was based on 307 correctly completed questionnaires. It was found that the users of agricultural soils in Poland take a conscious ap- proach to soil management. They recognize serious problems related to maintenance of proper soil moisture and structure, pro- tection against diseases and pests, use of proper fertilization and crop rotation.