Attitudes, Backgrounds and Information Preferences of Canadian Organic and Conventional Farmers: Implications for Organic Farming Advocacy and Extension

Abstract

This study examines the sociodemographic, farm-related, attitudinal and communication behavior differences between organic and conventional farmers in Canada. While organic farmers have fewer years of farming experience, operate smaller farms and are less dependent on hired farm labor, the most significant differences concern farmers' attitudes towards organic farming and the use of synthetic agrichemicals. A close attitudinal alignment between government extension agents and conventional farmers was also found. In addition, organic and conventional farmers proved to have significantly different patterns of information behavior and preferences. Implications for organic farming advocates and extension services are discussed.