Source: Duram, L.A. 1999. Factors in organic farmers' decision making: diversity, challenge, and obstacles. Am. J. Altern. Agric. 14:1:2-9.

Given the challenge and uncertainty that many farmers face when switching from traditional to organic methods of farming, there has been relatively little research done on why many farmers make the change. Some may change because organic production is a viable market. The U.S. sales of organic foods have increased 20 times over a 16 year period: $174 million in 1980, $1.25 billion in 1989, over $3.5 billion in 1996. Because of the prohibition of pesticides and other such materials in organic production, there are many uncertainties that a farmer must take into account before switching. This article explores (1) who decides to grow organically, (2) why farmers decide to grow organically, and (3) the defining characteristics of organic farmers and their farms. It is thought that this is the first research completed delving into the operational, attitudinal, social, and environmental factors affecting the decision making process that farmers go through when choosing to change to organic methods. If these processes were understood better, then regional and local variations could be given more consideration in the development and synthesis of policies and public knowledge. Eight characteristics were found that defined organic farmers and how they should approach organic farming. These include farmers (1) willing to operate in diverse ways, (2) seeking challenge, (3) willing to change, (4) using a business-like approach, (5) applying no formal agricultural education, (6) possessing a love of the land and region; (7) opposing the radical environmentalist standpoint, and (8) overcoming obstacles related to markets, tradition, and information. The author concludes that organic agriculture is expanding, but the obstacles for organic farmers are considerable. The obstacles can be reduced by stabilizing organic markets, confronting traditions that are not beneficial, providing relevant information through research and education, and forming policies that make organic farming a more viable option.

Abstract author: Nicole C. Mason, 17 October 1999.

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