Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
4491458 | Agricultural Systems | 2011 | 9 Pages |
The aim of this paper is to identify and assess the role played by innovative extension services in affecting farmers’ strategy. More specifically we implement a multivariate probit model to evaluate the effects of different types of extension services introduced by a reform in the domain of Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) in Italy. The results show that both generalist and specialized services could play a major role in farmers’ value creation strategies. They also confirm that different strategies for creating value are jointly implemented. Finally, they show that a further improvement in the quality of public provision of extension services within regional AKIS and a greater (systemic) interaction between farmers, rural actors and local networks should be supported.
► Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation System (AKIS) matters for farmers strategies. ► Public extension services have a relatively limited impact on farmers strategies. ► Membership in associations and rural networks matters for farm diversification. ► The process of policy-making related to the AKIS domain requires more attention.