Extension Program Research Articles

Effectiveness of No-till Farming, Cover Cropping, and Crop Rotation in Improving the Sustainability of the Agricultural Sector in West Java

This study explores the effectiveness of three sustainable agriculture practices—No-till Farming, Cover Crops, and Crop Rotation—in enhancing the sustainability of the agricultural sector in West Java, Indonesia. Using structural equation modeling (SEM-PLS) to analyze survey data from 180 farmers, the study reveals positive relationships between each practice and sustainability outcomes. Cover Cropping emerges as particularly impactful, followed by No-till Farming and Crop Rotation. These findings emphasize the critical role of integrating these practices into agricultural policies and extension programs to bolster environmental resilience and economic viability across West Java.

Promoting Organic Seed Systems: Directions for Extension Programming in Northeast Seed Systems

Promoting Organic Seed Systems: Directions for Extension Programming in Northeast Seed Systems

Needs Assessment Tool for a Value-Added Beef Extension Program for Small Farmers

Needs Assessment Tool for a Value-Added Beef Extension Program for Small Farmers

Enhancing Agricultural Productivity: A Comparative Study of Vegetable Cultivation under Polyhouse and Open Field Conditions in Punjab, India

This study investigated the comparative agricultural performance of cucumber, capsicum and tomato cultivation in polyhouse structures versus open field conditions in Punjab, focusing on yield, market prices, cost of production and overall profitability. The study included 42 polyhouse technology adopters and 60 non-adopters randomly selected from six districts with high polyhouse concentration. Results revealed that cucumber, the most suitable crop under polyhouse conditions, exhibited significantly higher yields (347 q/acre) compared to open field cultivation (166 q/acre). Polyhouse-grown cucumbers also fetched better market prices (Rs. 22-23/Kg) than those cultivated in open fields (Rs. 13/Kg) due to off-season production. Despite higher production costs in polyhouse conditions, the gross and net returns as well as the benefit-cost ratio (B:C ratio of 2.84) was considerably better in polyhouse cultivation compared to open field cultivation. Similarly, capsicum and tomato crops demonstrated over 1.5 times higher yields in polyhouse conditions compared to open fields. The market prices for polyhouse grown capsicum and tomato were significantly better, compensating for the higher production costs. The benefit-cost ratios for capsicum and tomato in polyhouse conditions were 2.37 and 2.42 respectively, outperforming open field cultivation. The study ranked cucumber as the most profitable crop under polyhouse structures followed by tomato and capsicum. Extension and technology gaps were identified highlighting the need for capacity building through extension programs to bridge existing gaps. Extension yield gaps ranged from 21.7-32.5 q/acre while technology gaps attributed to cultivation practices, crop varieties and technical knowledge ranged between 38-55 q/acre. In conclusion, polyhouse technology presents a viable strategy for enhancing agricultural productivity particularly for cucumber, capsicum and tomato crops in Punjab. The findings underscored the need for targeted extension programs and improved practices to bridge existing gaps promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Punjab.

A Review on Levering Technology for Sustainable Development in Agricultural Extension Program

The transformative potential of technology in agricultural extension programs and its implications for sustainable development. By integrating technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, blockchain, and precision farming tools, agricultural practices can be significantly improved in terms of efficiency, productivity, and sustainability. The discussion is organized into a comprehensive framework that examines successful implementations and outcomes in both developed and developing regions, highlighting case studies that demonstrate the beneficial impacts of technology on farming. Key challenges such as the digital divide, financial constraints, policy and regulatory hurdles, and environmental considerations are critically analyzed to understand the barriers to technology adoption and effective integration. Recommendations are made for policy adjustments, the deployment of inclusive technology strategies, and considerations for long-term sustainability to ensure that these technological advancements contribute effectively to global food security and adhere to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, future directions are suggested, focusing on emerging technologies like next-generation biotechnologies and their potential impacts. The paper concludes that while the introduction of innovative technologies in agricultural extension holds great promise for transforming agricultural practices, a balanced approach is required. This approach should not only embrace technological innovation but also address the socio-economic and environmental challenges associated with technology adoption. Through strategic policy frameworks, tailored technology solutions, and ongoing support for capacity building, technology can be effectively leveraged to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability, thereby supporting the broader objectives of economic stability, environmental stewardship, and social equity in rural communities worldwide. The insights provided in this paper are intended to guide policymakers, stakeholders, and practitioners in the agricultural sector towards more effective and sustainable integration of technology in agricultural extension services.

Empowering Communities: An Analysis of Extension Programs Focusing on Gift-Giving and Free Sim Card Registration in Oriental Mindoro

Embracing the adage Sharing is Caring, Giving is Loving, Mindoro State University (MinSU) exemplifies its dedication to fostering a culture of compassion and generosity within the Mindoro province. This study evaluates the multifaceted extension programs conducted by the College of Computer Studies (CCS) at MinSU Bongabong Campus. Extension activities serve as vital endeavors that bridge academic institutions with communities, addressing diverse needs through initiatives like seminar, gift-giving, and SIM card free registrations. Through qualitative and quantitative analyses, this study evaluates the implementation status of these programs across strategic, social, and service dimensions. Findings underscore the college's commitment to community engagement and excellence, affirming its role as a catalyst for positive change. Recommendations encompass deeper community engagement and expanding collaboration and partnerships with other institutions and stakeholders to address emerging challenges effectively and ensure responsive and comprehensive solutions to community needs.

The food and agricultural nonprofit landscape

Collaboration among nonprofits, commercial enti­ties, state Extension offices, and governmental agencies is crucial for improving and sustaining food and nutrition security at the state and local levels. This study examines the landscape of 904 food and agricultural nonprofit organizations (FANOs) operating in Florida in 2019 to determine their scope, role in the food supply chain, and potential collaboration opportunities with allied organizations. FANOs primarily address the pre­production and distribution stages of the supply chain. Aligned goals and initiatives between FANOs and Extension programs revealed a wealth of opportunities for collaboration that would ensure the continuity of food systems and sustain­able resource use in Florida, despite existing com­petition between allied organizations and FANOs.

Is human activity driving climate change? Perspectives from Australian landholders

Australian agriculture and the rural communities that depend upon it are expected to experience significant impacts from climate change. The recognition of the human role in climate change is central in the design and implementation of effective strategies to mitigate and adapt to its impacts. Understanding the extent to which members of the public, such as private landholders, acknowledge human-caused climate change is critical, given their role as custodians of large tracts of natural resources. Rural social benchmarking studies are a useful tool for understanding landholder values and beliefs. Here, we use a rural social benchmarking survey to examine landholder agreement regarding the extent to which humans contribute to climate change across four Australian agricultural regions. We perform hierarchical clustering analysis to determine subgroups of landholders with similar patterns of survey responses. We then evaluate this effect of cluster membership and demographic characteristics using Bayesian ordinal regression on levels of agreement with the statement “that human activities are influencing climate change.” Our findings reveal three distinct clusters based on patterns of responses to survey questions eliciting participants values beliefs and norms. Cluster membership exhibits the strongest positive influence on agreement (0.52, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.67). This was followed by higher education levels (0.32, 95% CI: 0.22 to 0.41). Gender showed a moderately uncertain but positive influence. Years residing on the property, participant age, and property size showed very little influence, while rainfall zones showed a negative influence of-0.29 (95% CI: −0.47 to-0.12). Our results underscore the need for extension programs to consider landholder typologies based on a combination of lived experience and demographics.

IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON THE EXTENSION AND COMMUNITY SERVICES OF THE COLLEGE OF INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (2019-2021)

Extension and community service of the college provides an in-depth evaluation of many aspects of community extension activities and their impact on beneficiaries. The demographic profile of beneficiaries, which includes age, gender, educational attainment, work status, income levels, and occupational positions, provides valuable insights into the characteristics of program participants. In particular, there is a gender discrepancy among recipients, with men outnumbering women, indicating potential biases or barriers to equal participation. The data also shows a high degree of participation and agreement among extension project beneficiaries and implementers, underscoring the importance of community involvement and collaboration in achieving good results. Data provides insight into the frequency and percentage of participants in various training and seminar programs, demonstrating the variable levels of involvement across efforts. Respondent ratings for acquired knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, economic impact, social impact, environmental impact, planning, implementation, monitoring, and overall satisfaction with extension services show a strong alignment on the programs positive effects and benefits. The high ratings across a variety of factors indicate a high degree of satisfaction and agreement with the trainings effectiveness in developing skills, knowledge, attitudes, economic outcomes, social impact, and environmental sustainability. Findings highlight the necessity of individualized extension programs that satisfy participants different needs and preferences, encourage community engagement, and empower individuals to improve their knowledge, skills, and overall well-being. The extension services have a good impact on the community, underlining the importance of continuing to provide innovative and timely training to improve self-capabilities and contribute to beneficiaries overall growth and empowerment. KEYWORD: demographic profile, acquired knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, economic impact, social impact, environmental impact, planning, implementation, monitoring

Conception of Improved Blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) Production Technology and its Propagation among Farmers for the Development of a Sustainable Seeds Production Strategy

Having a strong seed system that could spur agricultural expansion would be the first and most important step toward achieving food security in the nation of India. The main objective of this study was to investigate the impact of Improved Production Technology (IPT) on the production of high-quality seeds of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) cultivar VBN 6 in a farmer-participatory mode in Tamil Nadu, India’s Ponnanaiyar subbasin during kharif and rabi 2017–18. In total, 985 farmers from 235 places throughout chosen Pudukkottai and Tiruchirappalli districts received frontline IPT demonstrations and IPT was applied in their agronomic practices afterwards. Compared to traditional approaches, our study demonstrated that IPT not only facilitated the production of high-quality seeds, but also a 25.14% higher seed yield of blackgram. Furthermore, the average water productivity was improved from 0.116 kg ha−1 m−3 to 0.154 kg ha−1 m−3. This study indicated IPT was effective in guaranteeing a system of sustainable seed production and thus was of great value in raising the farmers’ net incomes, profitability, and cost-benefit ratios. There is little well-documented data on how the farmer-participatory approach improves seed production technology in a sustainable way in the case of pulses when adopting improved production technologies in arable crop farming. Our creative method of having farmers participate in the demonstrations allowed us to evaluate how these extension programs affected the technology utilized to produce high-quality seeds. This study indicated IPT was effective in guaranteeing a system of sustainable seed production and thus was of great value in raising the farmers’ net incomes, profitability, and cost–benefit ratios.

Setting research and extension priorities for agronomic crops in California

Agronomic crop production in California, including grains and animal feed, faces multiple challenges that could be addressed by extension support. This means that extension services need to understand priorities for using their limited resources. Until now, a statewide assessment of the most important topics for research and extension was lacking. A survey was conducted by the University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) to identify high-priority needs and inform extension programming based on grower, consultant, and allied industry input. Our goal was to compare the importance of different topics with the level of satisfaction regarding UCCE’s delivery of information on these topics. Survey respondents identified integrated pest management, nutrient and irrigation management, and variety testing as high-priority needs, with overall high satisfaction regarding UCCE’s program delivery on these topics. Topics needing more focus (high priority but below-average level of satisfaction) included testing new products, soil health management, and water conservation and storage. Areas of low priority and low satisfaction included niche marketing, emerging crops, organic production, harvest/post-harvest technology, salinity management, compost and manure management, and greenhouse gas emission reductions. To address stakeholder challenges, results from this study suggest that research and extension efforts should prioritize issues directly impacting on-farm crop production. At the same time, areas of low interest reflect a need for more support to engage farmers on these topics, particularly those concerning state environmental regulations and challenges to local and global food production and security.

Reimagining the university’s role in the health and well-being of the people it serves

Academic medical centers and university extension programs remain underdeveloped collaborators, despite the complementary objectives between translational science and extension. This case study details the creation of a nationally unique interprofessional organizational structure between the University of Missouri (MU) Office of Extension and Engagement (MU Extension) and the MU School of Medicine to accelerate statewide reach of research and education discoveries using high-touch community health approaches. This article describes specific strategies used to systematically plan for: 1) creation and operation of the new structure, 2) routinization and institutionalizing the work, and 3) sustainability. We further outline challenges and next steps. The development of the backbone organization office of Health Outreach Policy and Education (HOPE) brings together the interprofessional expertise of five units with a common agenda to advance mutually reinforcing activities. HOPE is poised to make significant contributions to amplify MU’s land grant mission, garner additional grant funding, and advance the health of Missourians.

Sistem Pakar Diagnosa Hama Penyakit Tanaman Kentang Dengan Metode Forward Chaining

Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) are a priority vegetable crop due to their high domestic trade value and export potential. Potatoes are used for various purposes, both as a vegetable and as a carbohydrate substitute. In addition to being used as a vegetable, potatoes are also utilized as raw materials in the food industry, such as chips, potato flour, and potato starch. Due to the relatively low temperature requirement (20-22°C) for tuber formation, potato cultivation areas in Indonesia are generally located in mountainous regions. One of the potato commodity centers is in the city of Batu, particularly in the Bumiaji District. According to vegetable crop potential data from the Batu City extension program in 2022, the area planted with potatoes is 485.2 hectares with a production potential of 968 tons. Since potato plants are more susceptible to pests and diseases, substandard maintenance can lead to low harvest yields, poor sales, and even crop failure. This issue has led to the development of an application for diagnosing potato pests. The expert system uses forward chaining methods and is web-based. The expert system processes facts answered by users of the potato application, diagnoses the symptoms present, and generates diagnostic results in the form of solutions for the diagnosed potato plant diseases or pests. With the availability of an expert system application for diagnosing potato plant diseases and pests, the limitation of expert manpower is no longer a hindrance for potato farmers. Recommendations and information regarding potato diseases and pests can be obtained online without the need to consult a specialist.

Gender and endogenous knowledge inclusion for agroforestry systems improvement in Benin, West Africa

In West Africa, and Benin particularly, local forest resources can potentially contribute to both increasing and stabilizing soil productivity. However, these resources continue to be neglected with efforts instead concentrated on promoting exotic species. This study aimed to prioritize local agroforestry species on agricultural landscape by investigating the gendered, socio-demographic and agro-pedological factors of local knowledge and use of agroforestry species amongst small-holder farmers in Benin. An agroforestry inventory combined with an ethno-agroforestry survey was conducted on 364 farms with 364 farmers. A cluster analysis based on farmers' socio-demographic and agroecological factors was used to cluster farmers into two homogeneous agroforestry systems. Median score, species diversity and ecological networks were established for these two systems. Results illustrate that gendered difference exist between the priority that farmers give to multi-purpose species and this prioritization depends on priority ecosystem services for farmers and gender. Therefore, it would be useful first to consider gender and specific needs of each category of farmer to optimize the choice of agroforestry species to be promoted in such systems. The successful introduction of identified species through extension programs requires more advanced research related to the real contribution of these species to farmland fertilization, as well as the nutrient transmission pathways to associated crops in an agroforestry system to address simultaneously specific ecological, economic and socio-cultural sustainability criteria, as well as improved crop production.

Effective extension and access to education drive optimal adoption of climate-smart agriculture interventions in affected tidal floodplains: A case study

Developing countries with predominantly agricultural economies are particularly vulnerable to short-term climate variability and long-term climate change adversities. This provides the context for adopting climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices to ensure consistent agricultural product supply and food security. Although concepts of CSA tools and strategies are well-established, their adoption trends in developing regions are still undesirable, with little to no empirical understanding of factors contributing to these trends. The current research aims to address this gap of knowledge by assessing the nature of climate change impacts, adaptation strategies, and socio-economic characteristics of the farmers influencing the adoption of CSA techniques in a rural cohort in Southwestern Bangladesh. Systematically designed interview schedules revealed that the most common and devastating consequences of climate change in the study area were increased infestation of pests and diseases. Other overlooked hazards including water-logging, cyclones and cold waves, are posing new threats to regional agriculture by changing conventional patterns. Contrary to the status quo, many CSA technologies, especially indigenous approaches, are widely and effectively adopted by farmers in the studied area to cope with climate change. These adoption tendencies and innovations in CSA were found to be significantly driven by factors such as extension and training programs, education of farmers, and dependence on on-farming income. The findings of the current study provide a preliminary analysis of the attitude, knowledge and trends of CSA technology adoption by farmers in a less-saline floodplain niche of a predominantly salinity-impacted coastal region. The study acts as a model for future relevant investigations and implementations for stakeholders with supply of inputs, technologies and expertise in finding sustainable solutions and appropriate extension for communities around the world confronted with similar challenges.

Assessment on the Outreach Activities Delivered to an Adopted School by a Higher Educational Institution: Basis for Plan of Action

The research assessed and evaluated the impact of the extension programs and activities rendered by the University of Baguio in Alejo M. Pacalso Memorial National High School for the past four years in order to develop a systematic plan of action for the improvement of UB’s extension programs with its Adopted community. The study employed a mixed-method approach using a sequential explanatory design. The study utilized questionnaires that were administered to the teachers, staff, and students who have benefited from the activities conducted by the University of Baguio from 2019 to the present. Moreover, an interview was conducted with the Extension and Community Outreach Coordinators to validate the results gathered from the questionnaire survey. The findings in the study highlighted the significance of the implemented services in AMPMNHS, as evidenced by the high levels of satisfaction rating of the teachers and the learners and their perceived importance of the programs. Thus, the researchers made a recommendation that the program implementers should have a periodic evaluation to assess the effectiveness of every program being implemented. Further, the University of Baguio should provide continuous training and capacity-building opportunities for teachers and staff to equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to execute the services and handle unforeseen challenges effectively.

Consumer-Focused Meat Science Extension Program Increase Consumer Confidence and Knowledge of Meat Selection and Preparation

Science-based, meat science education is often limited outside of universities, creating possibilities to develop Extension activities to educate and impower consumers in principles of meat science. The Indiana BBQ Bootcamp was developed to provide consumers information on meat selection, proper cooking techniques, food safety, and meat seasoning (spice rubs and marinades) through demonstrations and product sampling. Attendees were surveyed before and after the program to report their confidence in their ability to perform basic meat science techniques. Responses to all survey questions showed significant increase in the attendees’ confidence demonstrating improvement in their meat science knowledge.

Attitude of Aromatic Rice Farmers towards Good Agricultural Practices in Dinajpur, Bangladesh

This study investigated aromatic rice farmers' attitude towards Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) in Dinajpur, Bangladesh, aiming to fill a gap in the literature regarding GAPs adoption in the country's rice cultivation sector. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study utilized a descriptive and diagnostic research design. The sample size consisted of 90 aromatic rice farmers selected through multistage disproportionate random sampling technique. Data were collected through face to face interviews using structured interview schedule, incorporating both open and closed-ended questions. Attitude towards GAPs were assessed using a scale comprising 16 statements on a five-point Likert-type scale. The major findings indicate a predominantly 54.4% respondents possessed positive attitude towards GAPs, with education and extension contact significantly influencing their attitude. Challenges such as cost and accessibility may hinder GAPs adoption, highlighting the need for targeted interventions. The study underscores the importance of educational and extension programs in promoting sustainable practices and calls for addressing barriers to GAPs adoption to enhance agricultural sustainability and farmers' livelihoods.

Do typologies of pesticide risk knowledge influence the adoption of IPM strategies? Evidence from rice farmers' behavior in northern Iran.

The active participation of farmers in adopting eco-friendly practices is vital to mitigate the environmental and health risks linked to pesticide usage. Farmers' awareness of these risks significantly influences their adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) methods over traditional pesticide applications. This study sought to explore the range of understanding on pesticide effects, categorize IPM strategies employed in pest management, and examine the correlation between knowledge levels and IPM strategy choices. Data was gathered through structured questionnaires from 391 rice farmers in Sari County, Mazandaran province, Northern Iran. Exploratory factor analysis revealed three distinct dimensions of pesticide risk knowledge: personal risk of pesticide, environmental risk of pesticide, and community risk of pesticide. Furthermore, the study identified three primary categories of IPM strategies: high familiarity, intermediate familiarity, and low familiarity. The results of the regression analysis indicated that the personal risk of pesticides (β = 0.556; P < 0.01) and the environmental risk of pesticides (β = 0.262; P < 0.01) are significantly correlated with the adoption of high familiarity IPM strategies. Furthermore, the study revealed that there was no significant statistical evidence to support the notion that different types of pesticide risk knowledge had any influence on the adoption of intermediate and low familiarity strategies. The findings of this study imply the critical importance for agricultural extension programs to focus on enhancing farmers' knowledge of pesticide risks and various IPM strategies. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Fotografias como arquivos e objetos de mediação cultural

The aim is to understand constituent elements of photographs as archival documents of secondary value, based on the analysis of documentary and cultural practices that focus on the production of the archival fond within the scope of the extension program 'Entre Comunidades’ . The methodological procedures adopted correspond to bibliographical, documentary and archival research to meet the objective. It is evident that archival values are constituent elements of photographs as archival documents of secondary value, associating them with documentary practices, memory activation and cultural mediation. It was concluded that photography has cultural values, notably aesthetic or formal value, being the object of cultural mediation.