Abstract

LOPEZ, M; PEZO, D; MORA, J  and  PRINS, C. The decision-making process in the adoption of Gliricidia sepium protein banks by double purpose producers in Rivas, Nicaragua*. Pastos y Forrajes [online]. 2007, vol.30, n.1, pp.1-1. ISSN 0864-0394.

This paper analyzes the process for the adoption of Gliricidia sepium protein banks by members of the Livestock Farmers Association of Rivas, Nicaragua (ASOGARI), who participated of the Silvopastoral Systems Development Project implemented with the technical support of the Center for Research on Sustainable Agriculture Production Systems (CIPAV) and the Nicaraguan Forestry Project (PROFOR). A structured survey was administered to 100 livestock farmers chosen at random among ASOGARI members to define the main typologies and if there are differences among them for the potential adoption of protein bank technologies. For the analysis of factors affecting the adoption of protein banks, survey data was analyzed applying a binary model based on the assumption that adoption depends on attributes and requirements of a given technology. Additionally, to identify those variables affecting adoption, data was analyzed a logistic multiple regression model known as Tobit. Among the factors that affected more the adoption of protein banks was the access to technical assistance, contribution of livestock to farm income, availability of labor, years of experience in livestock and school attendance, and access to incentives for investment in livestock. The decision making process for the adoption of protein banks included biophysical (e.g., availability of flat and fertile land, access to seeds or planting materials, climatic conditions at planting), and socio-economic conditions (e.g. availability of family and/or hired labor, availability of cash or incentives for planting, prices of milk and supplements), as well as environmentally favorable farmers attitude. The rationale applied for the adoption of Gliricidia sepium protein banks indicates that farmers utilized the learnings obtained through training, as most criteria considered by farmers are the ones researchers have identified as constraints or opportunities for the successful application of protein bank technologies.

Keywords : Gliricidia sepium; decision-making.

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