The Role of Farmer Personal Characteristics in the Adoption of Localized Irrigation Technology (LIT)

Abstract

In Morocco, one of the most important and effective ways to combat the water crisis is to increase irrigation efficiency through the use of water-efficient irrigation technologies. Among the existing irrigation technologies, LIT has the highest efficiency rate (up to 90-95% irrigation efficiency). However, the adoption of this technology is low and continues at a slow pace. The main objective of this study is to identify and understand the role of individual variables in the adoption of localized irrigation technology (LIT) by farmers in the Draa-Tafilalt region. The results of the analysis of data collected by questionnaire from 400 farmers in the Draa-Tafilalt region showed that the variables Self-Efficacy, Attitude and Education Level had a positive and significant effect on the probability of LIT adoption at the 1% significance level. On the other hand, the variables Age and Experience had a negative and significant effect on the probability of adopting LIT at the 1% significance level. While the effect of the personal innovation variable on LIT adoption in the Draa-Tafilalt region was non-significant. The results of this work are of obvious practical and operational significance, as they provide information on the individual factors that condition the successful adoption of LIT by farmers. The results obtained can serve as a guide for action that leads to practical responses to the problems of irrigation water management and valuation in the study area. Our results are therefore beneficial not only to equipment suppliers and consultants but also to public officials responsible for supporting the integration of innovations in agriculture.