An Analysis of the Economic and Social Factors Influencing the Demand for Drip Irrigation in Orchards (Case Study: Farmers in Meshkin Shahr)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Economics and Development, Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources of Tehran University

2 Master's student in the Irrigation and Land Development Engineering group, Faculty of Engineering and Agricultural Technology, Agricultural and Natural Resources Campus, University of Tehran.

3 Master's degree student in Economic Sciences - Economic Development and Planning at Islamic Azad University, Sabzevar Branch.

Abstract

This study investigates the factors affecting the adoption of drip irrigation in Meshkin Shahr County, Ardabil Province. Using the logit model and data collected from 112 farmers in 2016, the findings revealed that 32% of farmers were not inclined to adopt this technology due to factors such as high equipment costs, financial constraints, and inadequate government support. The analysis indicated that age and crop diversity had a negative and significant impact on adoption, while education level, farming experience, income, participation in extension programs, and land ownership type had a positive and significant influence. Based on these findings, increasing farmers' awareness through educational and extension programs, targeted marketing, and financial support could play a crucial role in promoting the adoption of drip irrigation and optimizing water resource usage.

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