Abstract

BALTAZAR BRENES, Erick et al. Characterization of farmers from three minicipalities of Aguascalientes. Rev. Mex. Cienc. Agríc [online]. 2011, vol.2, n.spe1, pp.31-40. ISSN 2007-0934.

The aim of the study was to learn and document the producers' socioeconomic characteristics of irrigated agriculture in three municipalities in the State of Aguascalientes, including their attitudes towards investment and marketing risks. The information was collected through questionnaires, with sixty six open and closed questions, which were filled in directly by the producers or with the help of a pollster. A simple random sample included 173 agricultural producers, owners of lands in the municipalities of Pabellón de Arteaga, Rincón de Romos and Tepezalá. The data was analyzed using descriptive non-parametric statistics with SPSS 11.5. The average age of the population is 60 years. Thirty two per cent of farmers, plant other crops besides corn; this is linked with their age. The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides is related with the use of certified seeds. The production levels of corn and silage are also mainly associated with certified seeds. Only 13 percent of producers sell their product through a contract, and 12 percent through an organization of agricultural producers. The youngest producers diversify their production, seeking alternatives to corn, in order to have better investment options. The attitude of producers towards investment risks and markets indicate, that they would rather invest in crops that offer higher yields, that are less vulnerable to extreme weather events and phytosanitary risks, that require less work, and that they are familiarized with, without a complex commercialization.

Keywords : diagnostic; irrigated agriculture; non-parametric statistics; risk.

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