Étude des perceptions des agriculteurs du bassin versant de la rivière aux Raisins concernant l'impact de l'agriculture sur la qualité de l'environnement de la région.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to describe and analyze farmers' perceptions of the impact of agriculture on the state of the environment, and on soil and water quality in particular. The study area is the Raisin River Watershed of Eastern Ontario. Survey research, based on 80 "in-depth" on-farm interviews, represents the primary methodology employed. Fully 58.75% of the respondents believe that agricultural practices used in the watershed contribute to environmental changes, 31.25% consider that water quality changed in the past ten years, and 57.5% observed soil degradation on their farm. Gender, level of education, farming experience, full time versus part time farming, farm organisation membership, and gross farm sales appear to influence farmers' environmental perceptions. No correlation was found between respondents' perceptions and their age, ethnic origin, production type, land tenure, county of residence or farm proximity to the river. The results suggest to resource managers possible strategies for increasing farmers' participation in conservation programs, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)