| heal.abstract |
This study aims at exploring past, current and anticipated farmers' behavior regarding the adoption of sustainable irrigation technologies which is a determining productivity cause, particularly in water scarce areas. For this purpose, the study was conducted in a semi-arid climate Mediterranean region using a survey sample of 400 farmers and employing both categorical and econometric methodologies. Results enable farmers' classification and suggest that the most important determinants of adoption are related to crop yield levels and product quality. On the other hand, the reasons identified as most important for impeding the adoption of new technologies are related to the farmers' belief that they already use all feasible water saving practices, to financial constraints and to low commodity prices. The importance of this paper lies in the presentation of results that can prove useful to policy makers, extension workers and individual farmers. Policy makers and extension workers will be able to assess the feasibility and implementation potential of sustainable irrigation practices taking into consideration farmers' attitudes and perceptions. Furthermore, farmers will be able to evaluate their adopting decisions of irrigation practices and have a clearer understanding of the consequences of irrigation management practices that would affect irrigation water availability and pricing. |
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