The Socio-Economic Environment of Innovative Agriculture in Altai Krai

Abstract

In order that Kulunda can become a 'learning region' for agricultural and rural development, where the link between ecology and efficiency should be the leading idea, various possible mechanisms of knowledge transfers related to new technologies for agricultural production have to be explored. As a background, this chapter summarizes key data on the agricultural and forestry sector including data on labour force. Aspects of residents' living standards, housing conditions, school system, health care and not to underestimate the role of cultural institutions and job opportunities outside agriculture are discussed as having an effect on the willingness of people to stay in the region.