Successful Farming Research Articles

Access and Utilization of Agricultural Information by Horticultural Farmers in Raoda Village, North Kolaka Regency

The success of farming can be influenced by access to agricultural information. However, not all farmers can access and utilize information quickly and accurately. This research aims to analyze the level of access and sources of information, as well as the utilization of horticultural agricultural information by farmers in Raoda Village. The study uses a survey method with 35 horticultural farmers as respondents. Additionally, the research is supported by qualitative data. Qualitative data consists of in-depth interviews with relevant stakeholders, including the Village Head, Chair of the Farmers Group (Gapoktan), community leaders, village officials, and female farmers. Qualitative data is analyzed through data reduction, presentation, and verification, while quantitative data is analyzed using cross-tabulation and frequency tables with Microsoft Excel 2010 and SPSS for Windows 20.1. The study’s results indicate a relationship between the level of information access and its utilization. Low access levels lead to low utilization, mainly due to inadequate facilities and infrastructure for farmers to access information, making it challenging for them to utilize it effectively. Keywords: Access to information, horticulture farmers, north Kolaka Regency, Raoda village, utilization of information

The Potential of Eurycoma longifolia, Curcuma zedoaria, and Allium sativum extracts as phytobiotics in improving the health and survival of vannamei shrimp Penaeus vannamei

The production of shrimp has been challenged by various factors such as diseases. Therefore, the health of cultured shrimp is essential for successful farming practices. The application of medicinal plants brings about numerous benefits in aquaculture including simplicity in usage, biodegradability, and minimal environmental impact over extended periods. This study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of E. longifolia, C. zedoaria, and A. sativum to improve the immune response and resistance of vannamei shrimp as an effort to prevent Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection. The study consised of two phases: an in vitro phase to determine the compounds contained in three medicinal plants as antibacterials followed by an in vivo phase to evaluate the effect of the medical plants extract on immune response, and robustness against V. parahaemolyticus. The results from the first phase revealed that bioactive compounds present in EL16 were more varied and had higher concentrations with a lower bactericidal values when compared to those found in AS64 or CZ64. On the second phase of the experiment, the medicinal plant extract was added into the feed with a dose that was determined according to the first phase results. The treatments tested in the second phase were 1.6% E. longifolia extract dietary addition (EL16), 6.4% C. zedoaria extract dietary addition, 6.4% A. sativum extract dietary addition and phytobiotics mixture of 1:1:1 (C1) dietary addition, as well as no phytobiotic for negative control treatment and positive control. The results from the second stage demonstrated that dietary phytobiotic extracts addition enhances the immunological responses and improved the shrimp survival against V. parahaemolyticus challenge compared to the control group. In conclusion, E. longifolia, C. zedoaria, and A. sativum showed different bioactive compound profiles which affect its efficacy against V. parahaemolyticus both in vitro and in vivo, with EL16 showed higher efficacy.

A Comprehensive Overview on the Biology and Culture Practices of Mud Crab (Scylla Sp.) in India

The genus Scylla, commonly known as mud crabs, is frequently found in mangrove habitats, brackish waters, coastal regions, ponds, and intertidal swamps, making them a rapidly growing exportable resource in India. Farming mud crabs serves as a vital income stream for fish farmers throughout the country. The increasing demand for mud crabs in the export market as an alternative to shrimp has led to heightened collection of wild seeds for cultivation, thereby posing a threat to natural populations. To promote sustainable crab farming and alleviate pressure on wild stocks, it is essential to focus on the availability of seeds, which is a crucial factor for successful farming. Additionally, crab fattening proves to be lucrative due to its quick turnover and high survival rates. This practice is particularly advantageous for small-scale operations, providing an extra source of income for local fishermen. This review article aims to consolidate existing knowledge on the ecology and biology of mud crabs.

Journal Review: Effectiveness of Supplementary Feed Ingredients on Egg Productivity and Body Weight Gain of Balibangtan Superior Hens

Feed is a major determining factor in the success of layer and broiler farming. The nutritional content of the feed must meet the requirements to increase livestock productivity. To improve chicken performance, we use additional feed. This review aims to determine the effectiveness of feed ingredients as a feed supplementation for chickens by using production waste, forage, household waste, forage, and enzymes to increase the growth and production of KUB chickens. Ingredients that can be used as feed additives include coconut pulp, pumpkin waste flour, papaya leaf waste, teak leaf extract, moringa leaves, tilapia plants, betel leaf juice, BS4, selenium chitosan, phytase, xylooligosaccharide, kesum leaf flour, sago pulp, spinach waste, and BSF maggot. The results of this review showed that the most effective feed ingredient was the supplementation of teak leaf extract (Tectona grandis), with a protein content of 4.9%, being the most effective feed ingredient in increasing egg productivity up to 15%. The supplementation of kesum leaf flour, with an average body weight gain of 426.97 g/head, is the most effective feed ingredient for increasing body weight growth in KUB chickens.

The Effects of Artificial vs. Natural Rearing on Growth Performance, Thyroid Hormone Levels, Locomotor Activity, Carcass Traits and Meat Quality Characteristics in Chios Lambs

Artificial rearing (AR) of lambs is nowadays a common practice in Mediterranean dairy sheep production systems to enhance the milk available for cheese or yoghurt manufacturing. The sufficient growth of lambs in an AR system is vital for the economic success of dairy sheep farms. However, AR is often associated with negative impacts on the performance and physiology of lambs. Greece is one of the major producers of ovine milk; nevertheless, data concerning the effects of artificial rearing in lambs of Greek autochthonous breeds are not available. Therefore, the present study aimed to examine the influence of artificial rearing on growth performance, thyroid hormone levels, locomotor activity, carcass traits and meat quality characteristics in lambs of the Chios breed, which is one of the most well-known Greek dairy sheep breeds. Twenty-one singleton male lambs were assigned into two feeding regimes; natural rearing NR (n = 11) and AR (n = 10). The lambs’ behavior was continuously videotaped until weaning, and their standing percentage was recorded as an activity index. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of lambs on days 3, 10, 17 and 40 after birth to assess thyroid hormone levels. The body weight of lambs was also recorded weekly. At the age of 45 days, lambs were fasted for 12 h, weighed and slaughtered. The weights of the carcass and internal organs were measured, while samples of the longissimus dorsi muscle were used for the determination of meat pH, color, water holding capacity, shear force and oxidative stability values. As indicated, body weight (kg) at birth was greater in NR vs. AR group and this difference was maintained till day 35 (p < 0.05), although body gain (kg) was generally not significantly different between NR and AR lambs, with the exception of the first week, when NR showed a greater value compared with the AR lambs (p < 0.001). On day 42, no significant differences between lamb groups for body weight were observed. Levels for triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and the free form of T3 (FT3) were greater, whereas the standing percentage was lower in NR compared with AR lambs (p < 0.05). The feeding regime of lambs did not affect carcass traits, internal organ and fat tissue weights, except for cold carcass yield which was greater in AR vs. NR lambs. No significant differences were observed between the two lamb groups in meat quality characteristics, such as pH, color, water holding capacity and shear force values, although MDA content was decreased in AR lambs indicating an improved oxidative stability. In conclusion, artificial rearing appears to be a feasible strategy for Chios lamb meat production, since it does not negatively influence carcass traits and meat quality characteristics, while a positive effect in meat oxidative stability is observed.

Generational Renewal and Farm Succession: Insights from Ireland

SummaryWe use Teagasc National Farm Survey (NFS) data to establish a better understanding about the age profile of people engaged in farming in Ireland and the related issue of farm succession. Insights are drawn from related research on the potential for farm partnerships to assist in improving generational renewal. The findings from the Teagasc NFS indicate a more complex relationship between economic performance and farm succession than is typically portrayed in the economic literature. The results indicate that in the non‐dairy cattle system, the proportion of farm operators with an identified successor is lower for viable farms relative to non‐viable farms and lower relative to viable farms in other farming systems. Cluster analysis of a sample of dairy farms indicates that the presence of young people in the household is just as important as farm economic viability in determining whether or not a farm successor is identified. The Teagasc NFS analysis indicates that many farms have young people contributing in terms of labour but delayed succession means fewer young farmers taking the role of farm manager. There is scope to increase the use of Farm Partnerships as pathways for younger farmers to progress from contributing labour on the farm to taking on a management role in the farm.

Online Communities of Practises as Agricultural Information Platforms: A Case Study of Indonesian Shrimp Farmers during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, this study examines the potential of Online Communities of Practises (OCoPs) for providing agricultural extension services. Using a unique dataset of 1,574 shrimp farmers, including members of one of Indonesia's largest public OCoP Facebook groups, we found that despite the pandemic, Indonesian farmers continue to rely primarily on their neighbours for farming information, utilising OCoPs only as a complementary resource. This reliance may stem from the fragmented and codified nature of information shared by OCoP members, making it challenging to access specific and useful farming information, particularly on shrimp disease, and difficult to revalidate practices in the field. Consequently, farmers prefer to observe their neighbours’ practices and replicate their farming success, given similar ecological prerequisites. To compensate for these shortcomings, it is recommended that context-specific and timely information from conventional extension services be integrated into OCoPs.

Concerns and Barriers Surrounding the Farm Succession Process – Perception Versus Reality for Beef Farmers in Ireland

Generational renewal is widely acknowledged as key to the survival and sustainability of the European agricultural industry. In Ireland and many other European countries an aging farming population, and the lack of succession planning by farmers, are significant concerns regarding the future of the industry. Farm succession is a complex and multifaceted process with the literature highlighting one of its main barriers as a reluctance of older farmers to retire and effectively step-a-side to pass their farm onto the next generation. Such resistance of older farmers is undoubtedly a huge issue in terms of generational renewal of the Irish agricultural industry, however, it is important to understand that there are many sources of concern for farmers that can act as barriers to developing a succession plan. In this context, the objective of this study is to develop a deeper understanding of the concerns and barriers surrounding the farm succession process. Discussions on the topic of farm succession, which took place during semi-structured interviews and consultation meetings with 30 beef farmers in Ireland as part of an intervention programme to support farmers in succession planning, reveal that the source of such concerns appears to stem from two broad areas: successor identification concerns and financial and legal concerns. While acknowledging that such issues cause genuine concern for farmers, we argue that overcoming them may not be as difficult as some farmers may imagine. Hence a distinction between what constitutes real concerns versus what constitutes perceived concerns in the farm succession process emerges. The evidence gathered suggests that where farmers engage the services of professional advisors to discuss farm succession, many of those concerns can be alleviated. Consequently, by reflecting on the findings emerging and by highlighting the case of Irelands Succession Planning AdviceGrant as a policy framework solution, we recommend for similar policy development in other countries facing the generational renewal challenge in agriculture. The novel findings emerging from this study provide a valuable contribution to the literature, to practice, and to policy development.

Variation in Diet and Leafy Browse Offerings Among Colobus Monkeys (Colobus spp.) and Langurs (Trachypithecus spp.) in AZA Facilities.

Providing nutritionally balanced diets is a key aspect of successful husbandry and can help support sustainable ex situ populations. This study focuses on the diets of zoo-housed colobus monkeys (Colobus angolensis and C. guereza) and langurs (Trachypithecus cristatus and T. francoisi) across AZA institutions. We utilized survey responses from 34 institutions to (1) document the extent of dietary variation with regard to food categories and macronutrients offered, (2) assess interspecific variation in diets offered, and (3) identify important aspects of browse provisioning among institutions. A total of 95 different food items and 229 common-name browse types were offered across institutions. Leafy greens was the only food category offered at every institution. The proportion of root and non-root vegetables in the diet was highly variable. Nonstructural carbohydrates were the most variable macronutrient, and their concentrations were considerably higher than those food items consumed by free-ranging colobines. Conversely, neutral detergent fiber and acid detergent fiber contents were more consistent across institutions but were notably lower than those of free-ranging colobine food items. There were no significant interspecific differences in diets with regard to food categories or macronutrients offered. There was substantial variation in how frequently browse was offered, how it was regarded across zoos (either as diet, enrichment, or both), and whether or how it was quantified. This study provides context for future studies examining whether and how diet and macronutrient intake impact the behavior, health, and welfare of these populations.

Embracing pluralism: assessing the perceptions of different stakeholders on the effectiveness of advisory methods in Ontario

ABSTRACT Purpose Extension and advisory services (EAS) are crucial for farm success and rural well-being in Canada. Like elsewhere, Ontario’s EAS has transformed, embracing diverse providers and methods. While research on pluralistic EAS grows, little examines how stakeholders perceive the effectiveness of different methods. This study fills the gap, evaluating Ontario’s pluralistic EAS methods through key stakeholder perspectives. Methodology Using the Q-methodology, we conducted an online survey on Qualtrics with 49 purposively selected producers, advisors, and researchers and used PQMethod software to analyze their viewpoints. Findings The findings revealed three factors representing the respondents’ views about the usefulness of different advisory methods. The first factor focuses on personalized methods, while the second highlights digitally engaged methods. The third factor stresses traditional extension methods that include group and training-based activities. Researchers’ perspectives leaned towards digital methods, while producers emphasized personalized extension methods, and most advisors were loaded under traditional advisory methods. Practical implications Stakeholders value traditional and personalized extension methods for their interactivity and on-farm presence. The study suggests a personalized advice strategy integrating online, face-to-face, and group methods. Policy implications The findings provide insight for policymakers and practitioners to improve the effectiveness of pluralistic agricultural advisory service delivery by integrating various advisory methods. Theoretical implication This study enriches the discourse on pluralistic advisory systems by presenting stakeholder perspectives on method efficacy. Originality/value This unique study unveils multi-stakeholder views on advisory methods, aiding Ontario farmers to receive relevant, accurate information and meet their needs.

Entrepreneurial back-to-landers: Neo-farmers in Turkey

Urban-to-rural migration, particularly back-to-land migration, has become prominent in Turkey. This paper focuses on entrepreneurial back-to-landers or neo-farmers, who have migrated to rural areas specifically to get into commercial agriculture and farming. Through an analysis of semi-structured interviews with 72 neo-farmers, the paper identifies six critical attributes that aid them during entry into farming and later on, when they are running successful farm businesses: possession of financial wealth; ownership of agricultural land; familiarity with agro-food sectors; education (in agricultural and/or food sciences); experience with corporate conduct; and active connections to the local and/or national organizations associated with the food movement. The paper argues that these attributes feature entrepreneurial skills, experience and connections, which in turn provide neo-farmers with economic, social, and cultural capital and comparative advantages to run their farm businesses. Through the case, the paper shows that one, the direction of capital flows, which historically has been rural-to-urban, may change to urban-to-rural (and from non-agricultural sectors to agriculture) through entrepreneurial back-to-land migration; and two, entrepreneurial skills have become vital for smallholders – newcomer or continuer – if agriculture is going to be their primary income generating activity.

Assessment of Sugarcane Cultivation Practices in Sitapur District of Uttar Pradesh, India

The success of sugarcane farming hinges on the intricate interplay of various the adoption of advanced technological practices. The study was conducted during the year 2022-2023 in Machhrehta and Gondlamau blocks of Sitapur district of Uttar Pradesh to study the extent of adoption of Sugarcane growers on improved sugarcane cultivation practices. A sample size of 120 respondents was selected based on random sampling procedure. Personal interviews with the help of a structured schedule were taken for data collection. The study revealed that majority of the respondents (51.67%) had medium level of adoption of improved sugarcane cultivation practices followed by 19.17% high and 29.16% low level of adoption of Sugarcane cultivation practices by the respondents. The study analyzed that high adoption found in Field Preparation Sugarcane with 94.78 MPS and respondents had less adoption of seed treatment in Sugarcane crop with 34.89MPS.

Exposure to High Concentrations of Tetrabromobisphenol A Slows the Process of Tissue Regeneration and Induces an Imbalance of Metabolic Homeostasis in the Regenerated Intestines of Apostichopus japonicus.

Tissue regenerative capacity following evisceration, potentially influenced by environmental contaminants and intestinal microflora, is essential for the financial success of Apostichopus japonicus farming. However, the morphological structure, gut microbiome composition, and genes expression pattern of the regenerated gut after exposure to high levels of TBBPA remain poorly unclear. In this research, the effect of TBBPA exposure on tissue regeneration in A. japonicus was investigated through a comprehensive multi-omics approach. Our results showed that the integrity, the intestinal wall thickness, and the villi length of the regenerated intestines in A. japonicus decreased after treatment with high levels of TBBPA. The findings from PCoA and NMDS analyses revealed that the microbial community composition was significantly altered following exposure to high concentrations of TBBPA in the regenerated intestines of A. japonicus. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis indicated that the DEGs (differentially expressed genes) were predominantly enriched on metabolism and immunity-related signaling pathways after exposure to high levels of TBBPA. These included pathways involved in the PPAR signaling pathway, ECM receptor interaction, glycerolipid metabolism, and fatty acid degradation. Interestingly, the results have demonstrated that there are 77 transcript factors that were significantly different after exposure to TBBPA. These results suggested that high levels of exposure to TBBPA induces an imbalance of the metabolic homeostasis by regulating the expression levels of transcription factors in the regenerated intestines of A. japonicus.

Sustainability analysis of cassava through mix organic with chemical fertilization system and the impact on farmer’s income in Dan Khun Thot, Nakorn Ratchasima Province, Thailand

Abstract This study focuses on assessing cassava’s sustainability through implementing a mixed fertilization system, combining organic and chemical fertilizers. The study will also evaluate how this system impacts the income of farmers in Dan Khun Thot, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, Thailand. Cassava is notorious for its voracious nutrient absorption, and without sustainable cultivation management, it can lead to soil infertility. Understanding and implementing sustainable practices is vital for the long-term success of cassava farming and the financial well-being of farmers. Survey methods including interviews, matrix ranking, working calendar, soil test, implementation, and observation conducted this research. Based on a survey of 50 farmers from 5 villages in Dan Kun Thot (Ban Wang Paru Ngam, Ban NonSa-Ard, Ban Sub Prai, Ban Huay Bong, and Ban Pa Rung Ngam), it was found that 23% of the farmers used mixed fertilization and achieved a productivity of 4,021.7 kg/rai (1 rai = 0.16 ha). On the other hand, 27% of the farmers used non-mixed fertilization and achieved a lower productivity of 3,253.7 kg/rai, which is a 23.6% increase the implementation of mixed fertilization also increased farmers’ income by 28.45%, even though the total production cost increased by 10.25%.

Contract Farming in Low and Lower-Middle-Income Countries: Using Meta-Analysis and Factor Analysis

Purpose: Smallholder farmers' agriculture in developing countries particularly in low and lower-middle-income countries is known for poor production and productivity levels which has been related to the inadequate use of improved agricultural inputs and marketing systems, and in this case, contract farming. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the various factors which affect contract farming among smallholder farmers in developing countries. However, trying to investigate those contract farming determinants by a single analytical method leads it to have limited findings, narrowed generalizability and difficulty in investigating major determinants that determine contract farming success. Therefore, a joint approach using factor analysis and meta-analysis can give a more comprehensive understanding of contract farming factors. Methodology: The data was gathered through a Systematic Literature Review, finding a total of 3007 studies from SCOPUS, PubMed, PubAg, and EMBASE. The PRISMA method was applied to, and finally, 35 peer-reviewed articles in English between January 1990 to September 2023 were selected. Findings: The meta-analysis showed interesting insights into factors influencing contract farming participation. Education and household size exhibited a negative association, suggesting that farmers with higher education levels and larger families may be less likely to participate in contract farming arrangements. This could be due to a preference for independent decision-making or the need for family labor in alternative income-generating activities. On the other hand, farmers with larger landholdings are more inclined to participate. To encourage broader participation, policymakers, and program designers could consider targeted outreach and support services for these specific demographics. Originality and value: Our new approach, joining meta-analysis and factor analysis, sheds innovative light on contract farming determinants. While the expected determinants like farm and household size, along with education, remained significant, our analysis showed unexpected nuances. Age of the household head emerged as potentially favoring younger, less experienced farmers. Moreover, access to extension services played an important role, while large household size might have a more complex influence depending on age composition. This comprehensive approach offers valuable insights for targeted outreach programs and collaboration with extension services to optimize contract farming adoption and success in developing countries.

Enhancing food security through the use of cluster cooperative societies in fish farming enterprises in South-East Nigeria

Food security remains a critical issue in Nigeria, particularly in the South-East, where agricultural productivity faces challenges due to limited resources and infrastructure. This study explores the role of cluster cooperative societies in enhancing food security through fish farming enterprises. By pooling resources and creating collaborative frameworks, cooperative societies in the region have the potential to increase fish production, improve market access, and bolster livelihoods. This paper presents the findings from a study conducted among fish farmers in the South-East, evaluating the effectiveness of cooperative societies in addressing food insecurity. The research utilizes a mixed-methods approach, including surveys and interviews, with data analyzed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Results indicate that cooperative societies contribute significantly to fish farming success, with notable improvements in productivity and market linkages. The paper concludes with policy recommendations to support the development of cooperative societies in fish farming to further improve food security in the region. Keywords: Food Security, Fish Farming, Cluster Cooperative Societies, Market Access.

Assessing Organic Farming Adoption in Selected Districts of Tamil Nadu: Challenges, Practices, and Pathways for Growth

This study investigates the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, focusing on how region-specific practices influence the adoption and success of organic farming. It draws insights from a survey of 300 organic growers across five districts: Coimbatore, Dindigul, Erode, Tirupur, and Villupuram. This study is particularly relevant because there is a lack of comprehensive research on the specific challenges and opportunities faced by organic farmers in Tamil Nadu, with limited data on the long-term impact of government initiatives and region-specific management options, especially for smallholder farmers. Additionally, gaps exist in understanding the economic viability, market demand, and farmer perceptions of organic farming together with challenges like knowledge gaps, pest control, managing risks, and lower initial yields during the transition from conventional farming to organic farming. The research evaluated the factors affecting organic farming, including crop yield, the use of different organic formulations, the role of different information services, opportunities and challenges, and the impact on the perceived effectiveness of various agricultural outcomes. Various statistical analyses were performed, including K-means clustering, Poisson regression, and chi-square test. The results revealed significant variations in the adoption of various organic inputs and regionally practiced organic formulations. Crop residues (82.67%), Jeevamrith (78.33%), Amudhakaraisal (77.00%), and 3G-Extracts (74.00%) have high adoption rates, reflecting their perceived effectiveness and accessibility among farmers. However, the adoption of microbial bio-inputs such as Trichoderma viride (1.00%), Acetobacter spp. (19.00%), Azophos (consortium of phosphorus fixing microbes) (26.33%), and Azospirillum spp. (28.67%) was notably poor despite their known benefits for soil health and crop yield. The chi-square test also highlighted key challenges faced by farmers in adopting organic farming practices. The Poisson regression analysis showed significant positive impacts on crop growth and yield, disease resistance, insect control, overall plant health, and input efficiency due to organic farming. The study’s insights are essential for developing targeted strategies to overcome barriers, supporting the growth and sustainability of organic farming. Addressing these challenges and promoting effective information channels will better equip stakeholders to support organic growers, contributing to more resilient and productive agricultural systems in the region.

Importance-Performance Analysis of Factors Affecting the Sustainability and Development of Poultry Farms (Evidence from Broiler Farms in Baghlan Province, Afghanistan)

Ensuring adequate food supplies has become a critical issue with a rapidly growing global population and increasing demand for protein-rich foods. In Baghlan province, Afghanistan, many poultry farms have been forced to cease operations due to insufficient infrastructure and resources, leaving a significant gap in meeting the region's growing demand for poultry products. This study aims to identify the key factors affecting the sustainability and development of broiler farms in Baghlan province as perceived by farm owners. The primary research tool was a researcher-developed questionnaire, whose validity and reliability were confirmed. The study population comprised all broiler farm owners in Baghlan Province, from which a sample of 91 was selected using the Morgan table and complete enumeration sampling method. The findings revealed that approximately 54% of respondents expressed moderate satisfaction with their farms. Importance-Performance Analysis (IPA) was conducted to assess the relative importance and performance of various factors affecting the development and sustainability of the farms. The results indicated that having a qualified expert, the farmer's educational level, the poultry house ventilation system, and being a local resident were considered highly important factors for farm success but were underperforming. Based on limited existing research in the region, these findings provide valuable insights for enhancing poultry farm development and food security in Baghlan province and throughout Afghanistan. The study offers specific recommendations for addressing the identified challenges and improving the sustainability of poultry farming in the region.

INTERNET OF THINGS UNTUK MONITORING KONDISI AIR BUDIDAYA IKAN KELOMPOK ‘TUTUT JAYA’ KOTA MALANG

This service aims to improve the skills and knowledge of catfish farmers in the "Tutut Jaya" group related to the use of IoT technology in water quality monitoring. Through the training and implementation of IoT technology, it is expected that farmers can monitor and manage water quality more efficiently, thus increasing the productivity and sustainability of catfish farming. The dedication was carried out at the Catfish Farming Group "Tutut Jaya" in Arjowinangun Village, Kedungkandang District, Malang City. The methods used include training, technology implementation, as well as monitoring and mentoring. Training was given to improve fish farmers' understanding of the importance of maintaining stable pH and water temperature. In addition, IoT technology was introduced to monitor water quality in real time, enabling rapid intervention against inappropriate water conditions. Data was obtained through surveys, interviews, and analysis of IoT sensors that measure water pH and temperature. The results of the research show a significant improvement in the quality of pond water, which contributes to the health and growth of catfish. The use of IoT technology also increases operational efficiency, reduces resource consumption, and increases catfish production. Partners show a high level of satisfaction with the application of technology and the training provided. In conclusion, the implementation of IoT technology in water quality monitoring proved to be effective in increasing the success of catfish farming, with the potential to be applied more widely in the fishing industry.

Agri-Preneurial Resilience and Success: The Correlation and Demographic Characteristics of Smallholders in South Africa

The incentives and subsidies needed to stimulate growth, resilience, and success in agri-preneurial businesses will only be realized through numerous interventions as agri-preneurship contributes significantly to sustainable agricultural development in South Africa. This study provided a novel insight into agri-preneurial resilience and success and evidenced the hypothesis that there is no significant positive correlation between agri-preneurial resilience, farm success, and selected demographic characteristics of smallholders. We surveyed a total of 200 agri-preneurs who were willing and able to participate in this study. This study used a structured questionnaire that was divided into the following sections: (i) demographic information; (ii) agri-preneurial resilience; and (iii) agri-preneurial success. Descriptive statistics and a regression analysis were employed to articulate responses. Four distinct models were employed to ascertain the goodness of fitness and the hypothesis, and assess the relationship between success, resilience, and selected demographic characteristics of agri-preneurs. To determine resilience, the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) with 10 items was used because the CD-RISC justifies the best psychometric characteristics that portrays the levels of resilience amongst agri-preneurs. In measuring success, the scale items were graduated and ranked on a 5-point scale from 1 to 5. The reliability of the scale was also tested, and α = 0.93 was obtained. This study obtained a Cronbach alpha value of 0.96, indicating optimum reliability. Additionally, we ran a factor analysis to certify the reliability of the variable, which gave one factor from the four items. Significant positive correlations were found between gender, age, education, income, household size, diversification, and agri-preneurial resilience and success. This study concluded that most of the selected demographic characteristics were predictors of agri-preneurial resilience and success. However, demographic variables may be influenced by numerous factors given the heterogeneity of agri-preneurs in the study area.