Longitudinal Network Analysis on a Farmers’ Community of Practice and Their Changes in Agricultural Systems Management

Farmer peer networks have been identified as a key way to increase adoption of beneficial management practices minimize negative environmental impacts intensive agriculture. We studied the social processes that contribute practice adoption. administered two questionnaires participants farmer community practice, Ontario Soil Network in Ontario, Canada, prior participation (Period 1) and at conclusion program, 1 year later 2). All three measured networks, based on communication frequency, sharing seeking advice, production system changes, expanded from Period 2 around 80% adopted or their use practices. Our findings indicate multiple forms was related expansion. These support focus valuable policy tool enhance agricultural sustainability.