Structural Changes in U.S. Agriculture: Implications for African American Farmers

1994 ◽  
Vol 22 (4) ◽  
pp. 51-71 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adell Brown ◽  
Ralph D. Christy ◽  
Tesfa G. Gebremedhin
Keyword(s):  
African American ◽  
Structural Changes ◽  
Public Support ◽  
Limited Resource ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Social Characteristics ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Rural America ◽  
Institutional Forces ◽  
Small Scale Farmers

Structural changes in U.S. agriculture, influenced by technological and institutional forces, have altered the economic and social characteristics of rural America, especially that segment of rural America populated by farmers and their families. Changes in the structure of agriculture have greater implications for small scale farmers, many of whom are African American, in that strategic options for their farm-firms are constrained to: increasing their farm size, exiting farming, and obtaining off-farm employment to survive. This article presents a rationale for public support of limited resource farmers, identifies structural trends in U.S. agriculture and their impacts on African American farmers, discusses economic problems unique to these farmers, and recommends needs for specific public policies and development programs.

scholarly journals Farm Size, Risk Aversion and Overuse of Fertilizer: The Heterogeneity of Large-Scale and Small-Scale Wheat Farmers in Northern China

Land ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
pp. 111
Author(s):  
Haixia Wu ◽  
Hantao Hao ◽  
Hongzhen Lei ◽  
Yan Ge ◽  
Hengtong Shi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Aversion ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Northern China ◽  
Fertilizer Application ◽  
Chemical Fertilizer ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Fertilizer Use ◽  
Deviation Degree ◽  
Small Scale Farmers

The excessive use of fertilizer has resulted in serious environmental degradation and a high health cost in China. Understanding the reasons for the overuse of fertilizer is critical to the sustainable development of Chinese agriculture, and large-scale operation is considered as one of the measures to deal with the excessive fertilizer use. Under the premise of fully considering the resource endowment and heterogeneity of large-scale farmers and small-scale farmers in production and management, different production decision-making frameworks were constructed. Based on the 300 large-scale farmers and 480 small-scale farmers in eight provinces of northern China wheat region, we analyzed the optimal fertilizer use amount and its deviation as well as the influencing factors of small-scale and large-scale farmers, then further clarified whether the development of scale management could solve the problem of excessive fertilizer use. The empirical results show that: (1) both small-scale farmers and large-scale farmers deviated from the optimal fertilizer application amount, where the deviation degree of optimal fertilizer application of small-scale farmers is significantly higher than that of large-scale farmers, with a deviation degree of 35.43% and 23.69% for small and large scale farmers, respectively; (2) not all wheat growers in North China had the problem of excessive use of chemical fertilizer, as the optimal level of chemical fertilizer application in Heilongjiang and Inner Mongolia are 346.5 kgha−1 and 335.25 kgha−1, while the actual fertilizer use amount was 337.2 kgha−1 and 324.6 kgha−1, respectively; and (3) the higher the risk aversion level, farmers tended to apply more fertilizer to ensure grain output. Therefore, increasing farm size should be integrated into actions such as improving technological innovation and providing better information transfer to achieve the goal of zero-increase in Chinese fertilizer use.

scholarly journals Adoption of Conservation Agriculture in Zambia – The Case of Chongwe District

2016 ◽  
Vol 9 (3) ◽  
pp. 77 ◽  
Author(s):  
Abson Chompolola ◽  
Oliver Kaonga
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Sustainability ◽  
Conservation Agriculture ◽  
Social Characteristics ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Extension System ◽  
Frequency Of Contact ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
Behavioural Aspects ◽  
Structured Questionnaire

<p>The Zambian government and its cooperating partners have been trying to promote the use of conservation agriculture for improved food security and promotion of environmental sustainability. The methods used to promote conservation agriculture however are not adequately informed because no Zambia-specific studies have been done to explain adoption behaviour. This study aimed at explaining the factors that affect the adoption of conservation agriculture in Zambia using a case study.</p><p>A cross section survey of 200 randomly selected small scale farmers in Chongwe district was conducted using a structured questionnaire. Information collected included demographic characteristics of participating households, economic, as well as social characteristics. Respondents also provided information on the farming practices they are currently using vis a vis conservation agriculture.</p>A decision model was estimated using logistic regression and the results indicate that the adoption of conservation agriculture in the survey area is basically influenced by ownership of draft power, availability of labour, and the frequency of contact with the farmer support extension system. Potential to increase the adoption rate is plenty, but can only be tapped into if strategies and policies take into account the behavioural aspects of the adoption of the technology.

scholarly journals Farmers' Attitudes toward Public Support Policy for Sustainable Agriculture in GAP-Şanlıurfa, Turkey

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (23) ◽  
pp. 6617 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sevinç ◽  
Aydoğdu ◽  
Cançelik ◽  
Sevinç
Keyword(s):  
Sustainable Agriculture ◽  
Public Support ◽  
Simple Random Sampling ◽  
Irrigated Agriculture ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Property Type ◽  
Support Policy ◽  
Agricultural Support ◽  
Small Scale Farmers

Despite agricultural support in Turkey, agricultural production areas, production quantities, and the number of farmers have gradually decreased. In this research, we aimed to determine farmers’ attitudes toward public agricultural support policy for sustainability in GAP, Şanlıurfa, Turkey, and the factors affecting their attitudes. This research is the first of its type for GAP, Şanlıurfa, Turkey. The data were obtained in 2017 from face-to-face interviews with farmers who were selected using the simple random sampling method. Categorical regression, based on the optimal scaling model, was used in the analysis. The results indicate that although 80% of the farmers believe that support has improved agricultural sustainability, 76.2% find public support policy inadequate. The average land area of those who were in favor of the policy was 18.3 hectares, whereas that of those who stated that support does not provide a significant contribution was 7.17 hectares. The age of the farmer, total cultivated area, settlement area, education level, property type, crop pattern, irrigated agriculture, and income were factors affecting farmers’ attitudes. The support policy should be reviewed for small-scale farmers and farmers who engage in dry farming. The results could be helpful to support policy and decision-makers during sustainable agriculture policy planning.

scholarly journals Are There Road Blocks to Access Micro-Credit From Selected Microfinance Banks in Delta State, Nigeria? Implications for Small Scale Farmers Sustainability!

2017 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 1 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gbigbi Theophilus Miebi
Keyword(s):  
Sex Education ◽  
Logit Model ◽  
Sampling Technique ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Cash Balance ◽  
Socioeconomic Characteristics ◽  
Cooperative Society ◽  
Multi Stage ◽  
Small Scale Farmers

The study was carried out to investigate the factors that affect small scale farmers to access fund and utilized for greater efficiency in production in Delta State, Nigeria. The logit model was used to analyze the data. A multi-stage random sampling technique was used for the study. Charts were used to analyze the socioeconomic characteristics of the farmers. About 120 farmers were interviewed using pretested questionnaire. The study showed that sex, education, farm size, cash balance, collateral, frequency of transaction and membership of cooperative society were positive and significant at 1%, 5% and 10% probability levels respectively. The coefficient of age, interest rate, household size and distance were negative and significant at 10% and 5% levels. The results of the study call for policies aimed at encouraging microfinance banks to consider the farmers in accessing credit to increase their output, income and productivity in the study area.

scholarly journals Economics and Technical Efficiency of Maize Production Among Small Scale Farmers in Abuja, Nigeria: Stochastic Frontier Model Approach

2020 ◽  
Vol 2 (6) ◽  
Author(s):  
E. S. Ebukiba ◽  
L. Anthony ◽  
S. M. Adamu
Keyword(s):  
Stochastic Frontier ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Stochastic Frontier Model ◽  
Gross Margin ◽  
Maize Production ◽  
Factors Influencing ◽  
The Mean ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
Model Approach

This study evaluated Economics and Technical Efficiency of Maize Production Among Small Scale Farmers in Abuja, Nigeria; Stochastic Frontier Model Approach; Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted and used. Primary data were collected through the use of well-structured questionnaire from one hundred and fifty (150) sampled respondents in the study area. Data were analyzed to achieve the specified objectives using the following tools of analysis, Descriptive Statistics, Stochastic Frontier, Gross Margin Analysis, Financial Analysis, Five Point Likert Scale, and Principal Components Analysis. The results show that majority 40.47% of the sampled respondents were among the age range of 41-50 years of age and 25.33% were within the age bracket of 31-40 years of age. The mean age of the sampled farmers is 44 years. Which indicated that Young and energetic farmers are able to withstand stress and adopt new innovations. Most 88.67% of the farmers were male. Majority 72.67% were married. The mean household size of the sampled respondents is 6 members per family. Majority (67%) of the small-scale maize farmers had 1-2 ha of land and the average farm size cultivated by the farmers was 2.576 ha. The factors influencing total output of maize were seed input (P<0.01), Farm Size (P<0.05), quantity of fertilizer (P<0.05), and labour input (P<0.01) were statistically significant variables. The results of the inefficiency components show that the factors influencing technical inefficiency includes: age (P<0.01), education (P<0.01), access to credit (P<0.05), farming experience, and household size (P<0.05) and were statistically significant. The total revenue realized by the sampled small-scale maize farmers was N238,317 on average. While the total variable costs on average basis was N109,702.93. The gross margin realized was N128667.07. The gross margin ratio was 0.54 while operating ratio calculated was 0.857 and the rate of return on investment (RORI) was 1.17. The retained component from the constraint’s analysis include Lack of Improve Seed, Lack of Transportation, Poor Storage Facilities, Inadequate Capital, and Cattle Herdsmen. The retained components explained 60% of the variation of the component included in the model. The study therefore, recommends that affordable loans and adequate capital should be made available to the small-scale maize farmers, farmers should be properly trained and educated by the non-governmental organizations and extension agents on chemical application, fertilizer use and pests and diseases control measures especially on integrated pest management (IPM). Inputs like improve seeds, fertilizer, and chemicals should be made available to farmers at subsidized rates and at appropriate time coinciding with production periods for proper usage. Provisions should be made for transportation and storage facilities for farmers, the issue of conflict between farmers and herdsmen should be brought to book and resolved amicably for peaceful coexistence.

Factors Affecting Marketing of Vegetables among Small-Scale Farmers in West Bengal: An Analysis

2021 ◽  
Vol 66 (3) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lapasam Raplang
Keyword(s):  
Regression Analysis ◽  
West Bengal ◽  
Analysis Data ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Vegetable Crops ◽  
Factors Affecting ◽  
Positive Correlations ◽  
Small Scale Farmers

This study was conducted to identify and analyse factors affecting marketing of vegetables among small-scale farmers in West Bengal. Data collected with structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive and regression analysis. Data collected from 80 vegetable growers selected from Cooch Behar using structured interview schedule and analyzed through econometric techniques. Regression analysis showed that the factors like price, production, farm size, extension contact, competition, transportation, etc. determine the arrival of vegetable crops in the market. Correlation analysis among the variables from demand-side showed that population growth, per capita income and production level had positive correlations with market arrival (demand) of vegetable crops. The study recommended higher investment, favourable government policy, quality of produce, post-harvest facilities, etc. for improving overall marketing efficiency.

scholarly journals Adoption of Water Conservation Technologies among Small Scale Farmers in Lwengo District – Uganda

2019 ◽  
Vol 1 (1) ◽  
pp. 84-96
Author(s):  
Nabalegwa Muhamud Wambede ◽  
Joyfred Asaba ◽  
Othieno Esther Ebifa ◽  
Nabatta Claire
Keyword(s):  
Water Conservation ◽  
Survey Design ◽  
Multiple Correspondence Analysis ◽  
Negative Influence ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Systematic Sampling ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
Conservation Technologies

This study identified and characterised the dominant water conservation technologies (WCT) employed by small scale farmers in Malongo and Kyazanga sub-counties in Lwengo district. It employed a cross sectional household survey design, using systematic sampling to obtain 380 household samples. A quantitative analysis, Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) and Logit regression model were used to analyse these data to identify and characterise the dominant WCT and establish the most significant factor affecting the adoption of the technologies. Results indicated that mulching was the most dominant WCT employed, followed by Valley dams/reservoirs, terracing, tied ridges, deep tillage and infiltration pits. The Logit model indicated that out of seven factors, five had a significant positive influence namely: access to credit (1.3); farm slope location (0.7); farm size (0.4); access to agricultural inputs and investment subsidies (0.4); and level of income (0.2). One factor had a significant negative influence (engagement in other economic activities/off-farm employment activities) and only one was found to be insignificant (access to market). It is recommended that the significant water conservation techniques be upscaled, and that emphasis also be placed on the most significant factors in order to strengthen the adoption of water conservation in the area.

scholarly journals Assessment of adoption potential for smallholder conservation agriculture in Pandamatenga vertisols of northern Botswana

2021 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 001-010
Author(s):  
Kapweke Kandondi ◽  
Davis Samzala Marumo ◽  
Benedict Kayombo ◽  
Thembeka Mpuisang
Keyword(s):  
Conservation Agriculture ◽  
Demographic Characteristics ◽  
Descriptive Statistics ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Positive Perception ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
High Level ◽  
Structured Questionnaire

The adoption of conservation agriculture among small-scale farmers is still low despite the proven economic and environmental benefits of the technology. This study was conducted at Pandamatenga of Chobe District in northern Botswana. The main aim of the study was to determine the factors that influence the adoption of Conservation Agriculture (CA) in the study area. A structured questionnaire was used for the collection of the socio- economic and demographic characteristics of the sampled smallholder rainfed farmers. The socio - economic characteristics of the smallholder rainfed farmers included land holding size (ha), labour availability, livestock possession, education level, and farming experience. Demographic characteristics considered in the study included smallholder rainfed farmers’ age, marital status, gender, and average number of family members in the household. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and the logistic regression model. The results have shown that gender and farm size had a significant influence on smallholder rainfed farmers’ decision to adopt CA technologies in Pandamatenga. Smallholder rainfed farmers had a positive perception and a high level of acceptance of CA technologies that were tried in their area.

scholarly journals Perceived Effects of Climate Variability on Cassava Production among Small Scale Farmers in Anambra State, Nigeria

2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 27
Author(s):  
Samuel E. Anarah ◽  
Caleb I. Ezeano ◽  
Ogonna O. Osuafor
Keyword(s):  
Climate Variability ◽  
Agricultural Land ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Extreme Weather Events ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Anambra State ◽  
Perceived Effects ◽  
Cassava Production ◽  
Small Scale Farmers ◽  
The Impact

Climate variability is one of the predominant themes in agricultural research. Climate variations can seriously affect agricultural production. It brings about changes in weather patterns which in turn give rise to imbalances in seasonal cycles, harm to ecosystems and water supply affecting agriculture and food production. Extreme weather events such as floods, landslides and drought are caused by climate variation. Studies have shown that root crops such as cassava are most vulnerable to the impact of climate variability. This paper therefore investigated the perceived effects of climate variability on cassava production among small scale farmers in Anambra State. Specifically, the study described the socioeconomic characteristics of small scale cassava farmers in the state; identified the activities of small scale cassava farmers that contribute to climate variability; and ascertained the perception and levels of awareness of climate variability by small scale cassava farmers in the study area. A multi-stage sampling technique was used in selecting the sample units for the study. The instrument for data collection was a well-structured questionnaire based on the objectives. Descriptive statistics was used to actualize the objectives while the hypothesis was tested using multiple linear regression model. The result of the socioeconomic variables showed that majority of the small-scale cassava farmers were within the age range of 41-50 years; majority (59.38 %) of the respondents were females; majority (32.03%) have 7 to 11 years of farming experience; majority of the respondents (35.94 %) have farm size of 0.1 to 0.5 hectares; majority of the farmers (42.19 %) belong to 3 to 4 farming organizations; majority of the farmers (42.19 %) make  income of ₦50,000 to ₦100,000; and majority of the farmers (53.13 %) produce  yield of 3000 to 4000 kg of cassava. Result of the activities of small scale cassava farmers that contribute to climate variability show that majority of the farmers (88.28 %) perceived that bush burning contribute to climate variability while (82.03%), (60.16%), (56.25%) and (50.78%) indicated that intensive agricultural land use, use of inorganic fertilizers, use of fossil fuels and deforestation contribute also to climate variability, respectively. Based on the perception and level of awareness of climate variability by small scale cassava farmers in the study area, the result show that the farmers were significantly aware of the following climate variability; early onset of rainfall and early cessation; decreased rainfall days; shorter than normal rainfall; absence of frost; low intensity rainfall; flash flooding; unusual patterns of precipitation and high sunshine intensity. It was also found that significant relationship exists between socio-economic characteristics and production level by the small scale cassava farmers. Recommendations were made based on the findings.

scholarly journals Analysis of Economic Efficiency and Farm Size: A Case Study of Wheat Farmers in Nakuru District, Kenya

2014 ◽  
Vol 2014 ◽  
pp. 1-10 ◽  
Author(s):  
Samuel Mburu ◽  
Chris Ackello-Ogutu ◽  
Richard Mulwa
Keyword(s):  
Economic Efficiency ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Formal Education ◽  
Primary Objective ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Small Scale ◽  
Wheat Production ◽  
The Social ◽  
Small Scale Farmers

The primary objective of this study is to examine the effect of farm size on economic efficiency among wheat producers and to suggest ways to improve wheat production in the country. Specifically, the study attempts to estimate the levels of technical, allocative, and economic efficiencies among the sampled 130 large and small scale wheat producers in Nakuru District. The social-economic factors that influence economic efficiency in wheat production have also been determined. Results indicate that the mean technical, allocative, and economic efficiency indices of small scale wheat farmers are 85%, 96%, and 84%, respectively. The corresponding figures for the large scale farmers are 91%, 94%, and 88%, respectively. The number of years of school a farmer has had in formal education, distance to extension advice, and the size of the farm have strong influence on the efficiency levels. The relatively high levels of technical efficiency among the small scale farmers defy the notion that wheat can only be efficiently produced by the large scale farmers.

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