SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF ADOPTION OF INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT (IPM) BY QUEBEC GRAIN FARMERS

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to determine the socioeconomic factors that influence the behavior of adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) by Quebec grain farmers. Using an econometric model of discrete choice, ordered logit model, the results show that majority of Quebec grain producers are practicing IPM. Seven explanatory variables, such as amount of IPM information received, lack of weed control knowledge, level of environmental concern, perception that IPM is an organic production, need for monetary incentives to adopt, numbers of years as a producer, education level appear to be the determinants of the producers' decision process. Nevertheless, there was a gap between those who believe they are practicing IPM and those who actually do. IPM is quite misunderstood; producers often equated it with organic production practices. Increased information campaigns are needed to teach appropriate IPM pest identification practices. In fact, producer organizations appear to be an ideal structure for increasing IPM information dissemination because of the level of trust shared among producers. Most producers worried that IPM practice might reduce yields; therefore, 75% believe that financial assistance is needed before they would more widely adopt IPM. Level of agricultural training plays a significant role in IPM adoption. The foundations of IPM practices should be taught as early as possible in existing agricultural education programs.