Organic farmer networks: Facilitating learning and innovation for sustainable agriculture

Abstract

This paper examines the role of organic farmer networks in facilitating farmer innovations in complex agro-ecological farming systems through a study of a sample of organic farmers in the northeastern tier of New York State. Building on a knowledge systems and social learning perspective, it illustrates how learning is triggered and agricultural innovations diffused among a broader community of sustainable producers through an interactive, participatory style of problem solving. Finally, the paper links farmers' social learning processes to extension through a critical reflection on the potential niches in organic farmer management for extension practice. © by The Haworth Press, Inc. All rights reserved.