Information sources and organic practices used by women farmers in organic farming of Chiang Mai province, Thailand

Abstract

The aim of the study was to investigate the information sources and organic practices used by women farmers in performing organic farming. Data were collected from purposively selected 100 women farmers, who are certified organic farmers from Sankamphaeng, Mae on, Mae Taeng, Doi Saket, and San Sai districts of Chiang Mai. A questionnaire was used to collect data in February and March 2019 through face to face interviews. A four-point rating scale was used to ascertain the extent of use of information sources and the extent of practices regarding organic farming. The findings of the study indicate that 62 percent of respondents used medium level of information sources while about 79 percent practiced high level of organic practices. “Searching in different websites and online chatting”, “neighbors and friends”, and “participation in group meetings” were the most used information sources. “Application of bio-extract”, “use of bio-control agents”, and “mixed cropping” were topmost organic practices concerning insects-pests and disease controlling aspects. Besides, “compost”, “vermicompost”, and “green manuring” were mostly used organic practices concerning soil and plant health-improving aspects. Age, education, farming experience, and knowledge on organic farming had a significant positive association with the use of information sources and organic practices. Moreover, to manage the flow of information from sources and popularizing more organic practices different comprehensive campaigns, demonstration, organizing training focusing on all these issues can be done by Government Organizations (GOs) and Non-Government Organizations (NGOs) to harvest more benefits from organic farming.