Proceedings: 3rd International Conference on Food and Agricultural Economics: ADOPTION OF PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION SYSTEMS AMONG MAIZE PRODUCING FARMERS IN ÇARŞAMBA DISTRICT-SAMSUN

Adoption of pressurized irrigation systems such as drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation influences productivity and sustainable use of water resources. Since Turkey isn't counted among water-rich countries, farmers need to use these irrigation systems. However, there are many factors associated with the adoption of agricultural innovations. This study investigates the factors influencing the adoption of pressurized irrigation technologies in Çarşamba District of Samsun Province. Participants of this study were a stratified sample of 350 farmers operated in different villages of Carşamba district. A well-structured questionnaire was administered and sought information about socioeconomic characteristicsand different farming practices applied by the participants. Data collection was completed in the May-September period of 2015. Descriptive statistics including frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations were used to describe socioeconomic characteristics of respondents. Then farmers weredivided into two broad categories as adopters and non-adopters of pressurized irrigation systems. The independent sample t-test procedure was used to compare these two groups regarding their socioeconomic characteristics and farming practices. Results of this study showed that adopters of the pressurized irrigation system in the region use more credit for inputs, obtain a higher yield of maize per decare, and have higher level of off-farm income; however, they have smaller family size, fewer persons involved in agricultural activities, and lower number of parcels of agricultural land. Research results are expected to provide useful information in identifying the issues related to the adoption of innovations in agriculture, and in developing innovation adoption programs for rural communities.