Farmer Interviews Research Articles

Do Rehabilitated Canals Influence Irrigation Technology Choices? Evidence From Smallholders in Madhya Pradesh, India

Investments to rehabilitate and modernize irrigation systems as well as price subsidies to incentivize adoption of drip and sprinkler irrigation technologies are promoted to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability of on-farm water use across India. We examine the effect of these two policies on farmer irrigation choices in surface irrigated farms in Madhya Pradesh. A logistic regression based on novel survey data from 918 farmers estimates a 3% reduction in the probability that farmers will adopt drip or sprinkler technologies if they are located on farms serviced by irrigation schemes where 30% or more of the irrigated area was rehabilitated. Results also reveal that, on average, farmers are 12% more likely to continue using irrigation technologies if they had adopted them prior to the start of rehabilitation works. Quantitative results are complemented with semi-structured interviews of farmers to better understand drivers of adoption, which suggest that: (1) open, gravity canals do not always restrict drip or sprinkler adoption, (2) water scarcity appears to be a strong driver for farmers to adopt, despite financial constraints, (3) socio-economic factors such as caste, education, and house ownership does not seem to influence a farmers’ choice of adoption, and (4) social networks provide a stronger incentive for adoption as smallholders struggle to access government subsidies. Understanding the role of social networks in influencing the irrigation practices of farmers can complement supply-side infrastructure investments and financial incentive policies to enhance the water security of smallholders facing climatic risks to food production.

Antimicrobial Resistance in Africa-How to Relieve the Burden on Family Farmers.

Although currently available data indicate that Africa has the lowest usage of antimicrobials in animals in the world (adjusted by animal biomass), data show a high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance in foodborne pathogens isolated from animals and animal products. Apart from the lack of solid data on antimicrobial use in many countries in Africa, different hypotheses could explain this situation. Qualitative interviews of farmers show a lack of knowledge and uninformed use of antimicrobials. Considering the development of animal farming to meet an increasing demand for proteins, this deficiency represents a serious public health issue. We advocate for policies that consider the specific challenges faced by family farmers in Africa, to simultaneously improve access to veterinary drugs while strengthening the regulation of their use. We propose a global approach targeting the agri-food system, offering innovative social and technical interventions on antimicrobial usage, adapted to family farmers.

Sustainability of Diversified Organic Cropping Systems—Challenges Identified by Farmer Interviews and Multi-Criteria Assessments

Diversification of cropping and farming systems is a central agroecological principle, which may improve resource use efficiency, reduce pests and diseases, diversify income sources, and enhance the resilience of the production. The main objective of this study was to identify challenges related to the sustainability of organic cropping systems that were diversified according to one or several of the following practices: diverse crop rotation, integration of cover crops, and intercropping. The sustainability assessments were made using a multi-criteria decision aid method (MCDA) and a framework based on the FAO Sustainability Assessment of Food and Agricultural Systems (SAFA) guidelines. Social, economic and environmental aspects were integrated in the sustainability assessments and combined with semi-structured interviews to identify and discuss farmer's perceptions of barriers to crop diversification and sustainability transition. The results showed that diversified organic cropping systems could achieve high overall sustainability, especially in the environmental dimension thanks to non-inputs of pesticides or mineral fertilizers and efficient use of resources. On the other hand, social and economic dimensions were more variable, with challenges of lower sustainability in profitability and management complexity for several of the diversified cropping systems. Limited access to knowledge, technology and markets for minor crops, and concerns about the consistency of policies were highlighted by farmers as barriers for crop diversification. We discuss how the identified challenges can be overcome and argue that fostering collaboration among stakeholders may increase investment capacity and improve access to new or alternative markets, thereby stimulating transitions toward more diversified and sustainable cropping systems.

Work exposures and mental and musculoskeletal symptoms in organic farming

This study focussed on harmful exposures and mental and musculoskeletal symptoms in organic and conventional farming using interview data of Finnish farmers over the winter of 2014–2015. The data consisted of 2,169 full-time farmers, out of whom 231 (11%) practiced organic farming and 1,938 (89%) conventional farming. Exposure to poisonous and irritating substances was less frequent while exposures to vibration and mould (‘smell of root cellar’) were more frequent on organic farms. Mental and musculoskeletal symptoms were slightly more common among organic farmers, but the associations were not statistically significant in regression modelling. Risk factors for mental symptoms included animal production, hired labour, female gender, constant hurry, working alone, economic uncertainty, and inadequate recovery from workdays. Risk factors for musculoskeletal symptoms included older age, female gender, constant hurry, economic uncertainty, difficult working postures, heavy lifting and carrying, and inadequate recovery. Workload and recovery, managing the transition period and better follow-up of the occupational well-being were identified as concerns among organic farmers. Practitioner summary: Converting from conventional to organic farming has become increasingly common. Farmer interviews indicated that exposure to poisonous and irritating substances was less frequent while exposures to vibration and mould were more frequent on organic farms. Mental and musculoskeletal symptoms and risk factors were similar in both types of farming.

Are result-based schemes a superior approach to the conservation of High Nature Value grasslands? Evidence from Slovenia

In this study, we explored the potential of the payment-by-results approach in supporting the maintenance of High Nature Value (HNV) grasslands in a typical HNV farming system and Natura 2000 site in Slovenia (Europe) with a high share of small farms, fragmented land ownership and long-term process of land abandonment. We tested the applicability of a hypothetical result-based scheme (RBS) for the conservation of dry grasslands and a set of associated plant indicators, and identified key obstacles to its implementation. Based on a statistical analysis of a survey with 263 farmers and a thematic data analysis of 62 farmer interviews and 10 in-depth interviews and focus groups with researchers, public officials and agricultural advisors, we found that a majority of both farmers and experts support the introduction of RBSs. The selected plant indicators were well-known among the local farmers and monitoring of their presence was preferred over the current system, which demands keeping records on the implementation of farming practices. However, although the RBSs seem to be a superior alternative to the current management-based schemes, their introduction might not be enough to ensure HNV farming systems’ successful conservation. Our results indicate a lack of institutional capacity to implement RBSs on a larger scale, particularly in terms of data support and qualified staff in the advisory service and monitoring agencies. Furthermore, experience to date and mistrust among stakeholders indicate a questionable ability and motivation of authorities to develop locally-based, flexible and innovative agri-environmental measures. RBSs alone also do not adequately address some of the root causes for the disappearance of HNV grasslands, particularly: the lack of knowledge regarding the appropriate modern farming system(s) to ensure their sustainable management in line with conservation goals; specific needs of small farmers; and the need for a socially acceptable land policy reform to enable easier access to land. We argue that systematic investment in closing the existing data and research gaps as well as in increasing the capacity of key institutions at the national and local levels are needed, particularly in European regions of high conservation priority. Furthermore, better integration of nature conservation in different rural policies and a holistic developmental approach in (remote) rural areas are necessary to prevent further abandonment of HNV farming and enable the adoption of biodiversity-friendly farming models.

What Do Values Have to Do With It?: Resilience of Two Types of Farmers in Hawai‘i to the COVID-19 Pandemic

A history of agriculture and socio-cultural formation has led to a complex local food system in Hawai‘i. Customary agricultural systems built by Kānaka ‘Ōiwi (Indigenous Hawaiian) are now rested within a landscape filled with many different crops tended by farmers from a variety of ethnic backgrounds. Value systems dictating farming practices and crop selling decisions differ. In Hawai'i, values of food security or food sovereignty are of particular importance, especially as growing movements seek to increase local production and decrease the state's reliance on imported food in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. In this study, we systematically compare two different groups of farmers in Hawai'i and their values related to production and distribution. We then analyze the experiences of these two groups of farmers during the COVID-19 pandemic and their responses to them. The study is based on interviews with 22 Indigenous Kānaka ‘Ōiwi (IF) and Non-Indigenous local farmers (LF) from the island of O‘ahu. Ninety percent of IF say values associated with both food security and sovereignty drive their production and distribution decisions, while 75% of LF describe food security as the sole driver. Sixty percent of IF follow a non-profit economic model and emphasize cultural and educational values in their production decisions. LF follow profit-driven models and emphasize the influence the market has in their decisions. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, IF sold or donated the bulk of their crops to the local community through farm pickups, while restaurants were the primary buyers of LF crops. During the pandemic, the local community continues to be the primary recipient for IF, and due to the closure of many restaurants, LF have pivoted their sales to the community as well. Farmer interviews are augmented by three interviews with Hawai'i food system experts and relevant literature to suggest multiple pathways state agencies and local organizations could implement to support farmers from different backgrounds through COVID-19 and into the future.

An evaluation of the Chesapeake Bay management strategy to improve water quality in small agricultural watersheds

Chesapeake Bay water quality has been a concern since 1970. In rural areas, agriculture is the dominant N and P source, and the voluntary application of best management practices (BMPs) is the primary management tool. Here we test the hypothesis that the current management approach of primarily voluntary, untargeted BMP implementation is insufficient to create detectable, widespread reductions in N, P, and total suspended solid (TSS) concentrations in agricultural watersheds of the Choptank basin, a tributary of Chesapeake Bay. To test this hypothesis, we assessed BMP implementation and sampled water quality on participating farms, at intermediate streams within each watershed, and at watershed outlets of four watersheds from 2013 to 2014. We also present water quality data from 2003 to 2014 at the outlets of 12 additional agricultural and one forested watershed and survey-directed interviews of farmers. By the end of 2014, large numbers of BMPs, both structural and cultural, had been implemented. Of the 16 agricultural watersheds, 50% showed significant decreases in baseflow N, 37.5% showed no changes, and 12.5% showed increasing TN. Baseflow P significantly decreased at just one watershed, increased at one, and remained stable at 14. Stormflow N was similar to baseflow, but stormflow P was 5 times higher than baseflow. These data partially support our hypothesis. Surveys suggested farmers considered themselves responsible for the quality of water leaving their farms, but out-of-pocket cost was the major impediment to further BMP adoption. We suggest that greater outreach and more financial support for farmers to implement BMPs is required to increase the types and densities of BMPs needed to achieve regional water quality goals.

Determinants of Smallholder Maintenance of Crop Diversity in Morocco’s High Atlas Mountains

Smallholder farmers are important managers of global crop diversity. However, agricultural modernization is changing farming practices and raising questions about the socio-ecological factors that support crop diversity. In the context of the semi-arid High Atlas Mountains in Morocco, we explored determinants of crop diversity through a cross-sectional survey and farmer interviews in villages adopting new crops such as apples. Through a multiple linear regression analysis and farmer interviews, we found that market participation, land holdings, and water access influenced crop diversity. We highlight the importance of water access for crop diversity, especially in semi-arid regions with uneven hydrological resources.

Study of soil management in rice fields in Bantimurung District Maros Regency

Rice productivity in Bantimurung District is unstable every year. Farmers tend not to attend to environmental and soil protection but are racing to increase yields rapidly using excessive chemical fertilizers and pesticides, tilling the soil too frequently, and burning postharvest straw. This study aims to study rice fields’ management in Bantimurung District, Maros Regency, based on the soil’s physical and chemical characteristics, which are expected to be a source of information in managing rice fields in Bantimurung District, Maros Regency. Data were collected using a field survey method in irrigated and rainfed rice fields and farmer interviews. Laboratory analysis included soil texture, bulk density, N-total, C-organic, pH, and organic functional group analysis. The result showed that both irrigated and rainfed rice fields have the low category of N-total (0.1-0.23%), low to a moderate category of c-organic (1.87-3.16%), and slightly acid to neutral pH (5.98-6.67). Based on farmers’ information, we know that the rice fields in Bantimurung District are still suitable for rice production but must have a proper good management principle. The best management includes not using an-organic fertilizer excessively, adding organic matter, crop rotation, and attending to water needs.

POLA KEMITRAAN KERJASAMA OPERASIONAL AGRIBISNIS (KOA) ANTARA KELOMPOK TANI SUMARAH DENGAN PT. PAGILARAN DI DUSUN NGAWIS 2 DESA NGAWIS KECAMATAN KARANGMOJO KABUPATEN GUNUNGKIDUL

The aim of this study is 1) to analyze the amount of profit pattern koa partnership between the cocoa farmers group Sumarah with PT. Pagilaran in Ngawis Village 2, 2) to know how far the effectiveness partnership of the PT. Pagilaran with cocoa farmer groups Sumarah in Ngawis village 2. The method used in this study is Descriptive. The study sample as many as 44 respondents had taken using Census method. The data used is primary data obtained from interviews of farmers in the Ngawis village and questionnaires filled out by respondents were concerned, the secondary data obaatained by quoling existing data from agencies associated with the research. The analytical techniques to determine the effectiveness of the Partnership by using the Likert Scale method and the analysis technique used to determine the advantages of using profit analysis. The study results show that cacao farmer effort Sumarah farmer group with PT Pagilaran in the Ngawis village 2, the Ngawis, Karangmojo Sub-District, Gunungkidul benefit to the Sumarah cacao farmer group that is equal to Rp 737.458.34/1.38 ha. The Effectiveness partnership that carried out between a Sumarah farmer group with PT. Pagilaran effectiveness hight, that is with the score 20.1 (83.759%). Keywords: Profits cacao farmer group, effectiveness partnership, and The Operational Agribusiness Cooperation (OAC) Partnership

Pengaruh Penggunaan Pupuk Bersubsidi terhadap Efektivitas Petani di Kelompok Tani Tosalamae Kabupaten Pinrang

The purpose of this study is to find out the influence of the use of subsidized fertilizer on the effectiveness of farmers based on the right indicators of price, right amount, on time, right place, and the right type in the farmer group tosalamae. This research is descriptive quantitative. The method of data retrieval used is observation, questionnaire and interview. The method of data analysis used is multiple linear regression. Primary data comes from farmer interviews and secondary data comes from research-related agencies. The results showed that on time is a real effect on (Y) the effectiveness of the use of subsidized fertilizers because of the significance (Sig) below alpha (α) 0.05 ie 0.016 means a real effect on the use of subdivided fertilizers in farmer groups tosalamae. Subsidized fertilizer is very important for farmers in the process of farming, so when farmers want to use subsidized fertilizer is always available in the time farmers need it. Therefore, on time it is very important in the use of subsidized fertilizers.

Compliance In Broiler Agribusiness Partnership Contracts at PT. Ciomas Adisatwa Makassar Unit

Partnership is a business strategy carried out by two or more parties within a certain period of time to gain mutual benefits with the principle of mutual need and mutual growth. Because it is a business strategy, the success of the partnership is largely determined by the compliance among partners in carrying out business ethics. In this context, the parties who are directly involved in the partnership must have the basics of business ethics that are mutually understood and embraced as a starting point in running the partnership. This study is objected to determine the compliance level of the company PT. Ciomas adisatwa Makassar Unit as the core in the broiler agribusiness partnership contract. This study was conducted from January 2020 to February 2020. The sample in the study was 31 breeders who partnered with PT. Ciomas Adisatwa Makassar Unit. Data collection was carried out using farmer data recorded in the core company and farmer interviews. The data analysis used in this research is using the Champion formula. The result of the study indicates that the compliance level of the core company PT. Ciomas Adisatwa Makassar Unit in the broiler chicken agribusiness partnership system is in the compliant category (compliance rate of 81.81%).
 
 Keywords: Agribusiness, Broiler, Partnership, Compliance.

Assessing the resilience of farming systems on the Saïs plain, Morocco

The Mediterranean region is expected to be a hotspot for climate change, making the resilience of farming systems a major challenge. Some studies have used quantitative models at the farm scale to analyze the resilience of farming systems but with little involvement of stakeholders. We used a participatory approach with local actors on the Sais plain of Morocco to design possible future states and qualitatively assess the resilience of typical farm types (FTs) experiencing major change. Our approach combined individual interviews of farmers and local actors, mainly public, with participatory collective meetings to identify representative FTs and their performance, project their evolutions and future performance in the face of change, and evaluate their resilience. Performance, defined according to literature, interviews and meetings, included different types of capital, income, yields, markets, support of public policies, and water access. Four FTs were considered: highly irrigated horticulture (FT1), rainfed cereals (FT2), partly irrigated cereal-legumes (FT3), and mostly irrigated fruit-tree/horticulture (FT4). The primary driver for FT2 and FT3 was climate change; for FT1 and FT4, it was limiting access to water resources. Participants designed more diversified systems for all FTs in relation to those changes. Rankings of FT performance did not change between current and future states. Performance did not evolve significantly, but FT4 was seen as the most resilient and FT2 the least. These qualitative results differ somewhat from other studies mobilizing quantitative approaches, but they highlight the potential of local adaptation to limit the impacts of global change on vulnerable agriculture.

Silvopastoral systems and multi-criteria optimization for compatible economic and environmental outcomes

ContextForestry production can provide a valuable commodity and environmental services to complement cattle farming through the mitigation of greenhouse gases (GHG) from meat production, allowing more intensive use of natural resources. ObjectiveThis study addressed the long-term integration of forestry and cattle farming to achieve productive, economic and environmental benefits. MethodsIt was applied Goal Programming and empirical field, cattle, and timber production data and farmer interviews of priorities were used to analyze integrated forestry production of Eucalyptus plantations and cattle breeding and rearing. The preemptive criteria applied were max Forest Net Present Value (NPV), max Cattle NPV, and Carbon Balance. Additionally goals were to minimize the deviation of a normal forest, among others. Results and conclusionsA Type I lexicographical multi-criteria model was developed in three hierarchical models for a 408 ha model farm. Model M1 results in the higher combined NPV Cattle (302,935 US$) and NPV Forest (556,578 US$); Model M2, where NPV Cattle is prioritized at the first level, achieved the target of 317,307 US$ but the least success in achieving carbon positive balance with a negative balance of −20,160 tons of CO2-e released. Comparing the results of model M3, where minimizing the negative carbon balance, a positive carbon balance of +6788 tons CO2-e, in a scenario where the environmental goal would be imposed. The difference of NPV cattle between M2 and M3 is −24,609 US$. The environmental criterion must be allocated to higher hierarchical levels in order to achieve a positive balance and obtain profits from forest and cattle. This also allows quantification of how far removed a system is from achieving a goal of integrated and sustainable production. The lexicographical methodology allowed quantification of results as a function of the hierarchical allocation of various goals within different integration models through studying efficient subgroups. SignificanceIt is shown that environmental and productive objectives can be integrated, even considering harvest of trees in the system achieving economic, environmental and productive goals in the medium or long term, with deviations that the decision maker can accept; plans can also be established with results that can serve as a policy guide, that provide for the incorporation of environmental services. Variations in the models showed the final solution is highly dependent on the preferences order in the higher level; the environmental goal is achievable if it is prioritized at a higher hierarchical level.

Pengembangan Kawasan Agrowisata Berbasis Komoditas Unggulan di Payo, Solok, Sumatera Barat

Solok City Government has a plan to develop area-based agrotourism in order to develop regional superior commodities. The research objectives are: (1) assessing the existing condition of agriculture and livestock, (2) assessing the role of stakeholder in developing Payo agro-tourism, (3) formulating Payo agro-tourism development strategies. The data used were primary and secondary data. Primary data were obtained from farmer interviews and participatory rural appraisal (PRA), as well as focus group discussions (FGD) with stakeholders. Data were analyzed with interactive analysis techniques and thematic analysis. The results showed that the socio-economic conditions of the community and the commitment of the local government supported the successful development of superior commodities in the Payo agro-tourism area. Potential and superior commodities based on land suitability, community and government interests are coffee, mangosteen, avocado, turmeric, chrysanthemum, and medicinal plants. But still needed support from IAARD technological innovation and institutional arrangement. The recommended steps in the development of Payo agro-tourism in a row are as follows: (1) structuring commodities according to land suitability, (2) providing technical guidance with methods that are easily understood, and (3) providing escort and institutional arrangement in developing agro-tourism areas. The involvement of IAARD in this effort can be started by drafting grand design of IAARD technological innovation support in Payo agro-tourism.Keywords: agro-tourism, area, solok

History of Sheath Rot Disease in Indonesia and Disease Severity in Two Rice Production Centres of West Java

The observation conducted from 2000 to 2018 found that rice sheath rot has become an emerging disease in several regions. The disease was able to reduce quality and quantity of rice yield. This research objective was to study the history and status of rice sheath rot caused by Sarocladium oryzae. Data was obtained from literature study, farmer interview, and field survey. Data were used to calculate disease incidence followed by visual observation of the symptoms caused by this disease. Identification of sheath rot pathogen was done using microscopic and molecular techniques using specific primers. Rice sheath rot was first reported in Indonesia as a minor disease in 1987 and has only currently become an important disease. This fungus generally causes rice sheath rot in Karawang and Cianjur Regency. Disease incidence of rice sheath rot was 12.56% without considering the varieties at all generative growth stages. Average disease incidence on all rice varieties observed was 12.64%, except for IR 42 (0%). The level of rice plants damage due to rice sheath rot in Cianjur was higher than Karawang with average disease incidence of 11.58% and 9.27%, respectively. Rice sheath rot symptoms have often been found in the last 10 years with average level of damage of 3%‒18% and yield loss of 10%-15%. This disease has proven to be important and has become a challenge in rice cultivation. The fungus that infect rice plants in Karawang and Cianjur had different morphotypes, namely KP, KP2, KP3, PW3, and PW03. The amplification results showed that all fungal isolates were S. oryzae.

An exploratory cross-sectional study of the impact of farm characteristics and calf management practices on morbidity and passive transfer of immunity in 202 Chianina beef-suckler calves

There are no published data on the risk factors associated with morbidity, mortality and passive transfer failure in Chianina beef-suckler calves. To implement prevention strategies in beef enterprises, gaining management information and identifying risk factors are essential. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify calf-level management practices and farm characteristics associated with disease incidence, mortality and serum IgG concentration in Chianina beef-suckler calves from farms in Umbria, Italy. In total, 202 Chianina beef-suckler calves aged 2–7 days from nine farms were enrolled. For each calf born, blood samples were collected and specific information on management practices and farm characteristics was obtained through farmer interviews. Serum immunoglobulin concentrations were measured using radial immunodiffusion. Mortality and morbidity data were extracted from the farm’s cow file six months after the last farm visit. The impact of farm characteristics and calf management practices on the mortality rate could not be assesses due to low case fatality in our enrolled calves (10/202). A multivariable logistic regression model indicated that prepartum vaccination against Escherichia coli, rotavirus and coronavirus, and bottle-fed colostrum were associated with serum IgG concentration. Birth season and serum IgG concentration were associated with the development of neonatal calf diarrhoea and the development of both neonatal calf diarrhoea and respiratory disease, respectively. Furthermore, family-owned farms represent an important factor related to respiratory disease episodes. The possible influence of these factors on passive immunity and neonatal calf diarrhoea and respiratory disease appearance should be considered when advising farmers. Highlights Effects of farm characteristics and management practices on health were investigated in 202 Chianina calves. Dam vaccination against Escherichia coli, Rotavirus and Coronavirus, and colostrum feeding assistance affect calf passive immunity. Calves with low serum IgG concentrations became sick; diarrhoea was common during cold months; respiratory disease was more common in family-run farms.

AN ASSESSMENT OF POULTRY REARING AND HYGIENIC MANAGEMENT OF BROILER FARMS OF COX’S BAZAR DISTRICT IN BANGLADESH.

Poultry industry is one of the most booming industry in the Cox’s bazar district. This study was carried out to assess the hygienic practices and also to improve the broiler meat safety. Currently, every country in the world is increasing their effort to improve food safety to reduce the food safety risk. The data for this study was collected from the desk research, observation, survey, and interviews of poultry farmers. Twenty broiler farmers were surveyed by using questionnaire. The study revealed that the majority of the farmers are doing broiler farming as their main source of income. The flock size is around 501-1000 of the larger number of farms and on an average farmers are rearing 5.57 cycles per year. The study recommended some implication to improve hygienic practices of broiler and to reduce the foodborne illness of the district as well.

Between water stewardship and independent global water certification: learning from smallholder rice farmers, Karonga, Malawi

Cooperation and locally driven water management are at the forefront of food production water management for smallholder farmers in low-income countries. The aim of this paper was to critically reflect on the experiences of 5,819 smallholder rice farmers in Karonga District, Malawi, who were members of a farmers’ organization that achieved improved water stewardship, but could not achieve Alliance for Water Stewardship certification within a three-year project. The data for this paper were obtained through farmer and stakeholder interviews. The partnership attempted to bring together four parties: academics, farmers, local government, and a non-governmental organization. The farmers were trained by combining stewardship and certification topics through a train-the-trainer approach. The farmers’ organization primarily focuses on agribusiness; therefore, they did not have any water-related data or detailed farm boundaries from the large and dispersed group of farmers and could not obtain a collective water permit. Understanding water governance was difficult for many farmers. Furthermore, moving from stewardship to certification presented some financial challenges. Critical thinking and questioning are required, along with a deeper understanding of the local context, logistical hindrances, priorities, alternatives, culture, and science, to evaluate how projects are designed and partially succeed or fail from the perspective of low-income farmers in the Global South.

Understanding the drivers and motivations of farm diversification: Evidence from Northern Ireland using a mixed methods approach

Farmers are increasingly required to become more productive and innovative to ensure effective management of farm resources and to improve their livelihoods. Farm diversification has been identified as a viable strategy that can be adopted by farm businesses to achieve these objectives in order to reduce their reliance on agricultural production as the main source of household income. In this study, we employ a mixed methods approach to analyse the factors influencing farm diversification and diversification strategies in Northern Ireland. The challenges of setting up a farm diversification enterprise were also explored. Data collection and analysis were undertaken by combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches in a two-stage process using primary data obtained from a survey of farm businesses and interviews with key stakeholders involved in the Northern Ireland agricultural sector. The study results show that the primary motivating factor in pursuing farm-level diversification is the need to generate additional income. The analysis has shown that farm level diversification has the capacity to contribute to both the sustainability of family farms and the wider rural economy. The study results support the need for governments to explore the development of policy measures to support diversification at farm level.