In almost every field, surveys have found that those lacking information are often not seeking it. Those indicating confidence in specific MIRG topics were the most likely to be seeking additional information. The responses show that professionals who were actively seeking MIRG information were much more likely to recommend MIRG to farmers than those who were not. The professionals who were seeking information were of all ages and both men and women, but tended to have more formal education than those not seeking information. How the word gets out The most critical finding of this research is the major role that farmers play in the spread of information on new practices.
Farmers rely on each other for information.
This research shows that ag professionals rely on farmers, too. Professionals are particularly likely to recommend a new practice if they can see it in use, as opposed to talking or reading about it, emphasizing the importance of farmer contacts. Their confidence in and willingness to share MIRG information with other farmers also increases as their involvement with it and personal interaction with farmer innovators becomes greater. And as they get more involved with MIRG, they may seek even more information about it, becoming a source of MIRG information themselves. This is a summary of CIAS-sponsored research on sustainable, integrated, and alternative agricultural systems.