Examining the perceptions and behaviours of farmers regarding the installation of covers over irrigation ponds: Evidence from South-east Spain
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URI: http://hdl.handle.net/10835/14899
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2022.107999
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2022.107999
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López Felices, Belén; Aznar Sánchez, José Ángel; Velasco Muñoz, Juan Francisco; Mesa Vazquez, ErnestoDate
2022-11-02Abstract
The installation of covers over ponds for agricultural irrigation is a feasible alternative to reduce evaporative
water losses. However, the installation of these systems continues to be very limited. Understanding the factors
that influence the behaviour of farmers towards this type of installation is fundamental because they are the
individuals making the final decision. This article analyses the perceptions and behaviours of farmers towards the
installation of covers in agricultural irrigation ponds in southeastern Spain. A cluster analysis characterized four
groups of farmers related to this practice. The results show that these clusters present different perceptions towards
the installation of covers, their possible advantages and the different incentives that can be established to
promote their implementation. Technical and agronomic aspects play an important role in installation decisions,
while economic and environmental aspects are considered secondary. Based on these ...
Palabra/s clave
Water management
Sustainability
Intensive agriculture
Farmer attitudes
Cluster analysis