Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment

The effects of social capital on farmers’ tendency to participate in the water users associations (Case study: Zanjan county)

Author(s):

Rohollah Rezaei ^1*, Ehsan Gholifar ², Omid Sharifi ³

Recieved Date: 2010-06-19, Accepted Date: 2010-10-22

Abstract:

This descriptive survey research was undertaken to analyze the effects of social capital on farmers’ tendency to participate in the water users associations of Zanjan county. The statistical population of this study consisted of all the water users of Zanjan county (N=2225). A sample of 329 persons was selected using the stratified random sampling method. Data were collected by using a mailed questionnaire. The validity of the questionnaire was established by a panel of experts in the field of agricultural extension and education. A pilot study was conducted to establish reliability of the instrument. Cronbach alpha coefficient for main scales of questionnaire was more than 0.75, which show appropriate reliability of questionnaire. The descriptive results showed that respondents generally had a favorable tendency to participate in the water users associations and the majority of respondents’ social capital was at intermediate level. Regression analysis indicated that the farmers’ tendency to participate in the water users associations was explained by three variables: the level of respondents’ social capital, respondents’ attitudes towards water users associations and amount of irrigated land. The findings of this study can contribute to a better understanding of the present situation of water users associations in the county of Zanjan and planning of appropriate programs for increasing farmers’ participation in the water users associations.

Keywords:

Farmers’ tendency, participation, social capital, water users associations

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Journal: Journal of Food, Agriculture and Environment
Year: 2010
Volume: 8
Issue: 3&4
Category: Environment
Pages: 1065-1071

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