Participatory strategies for information exchange

Abstract

Complexity and rapid change in the agricultural industry are pushing us toward more participatory systems of information development and exchange. These changes are driven by a rapidly evolving information environment, with a multiplicity of sources and different clients, and by a technological revolution in communications equipment. At the same time, scientists and farmers are becoming increasingly aware of the complex biological interactions that occur in cropping systems and how these are connected with the overall ecosystem. We are expanding our time and space frame of reference. To address tomorrow's challenges, it will be important to blend the efforts in research and extension, to include farmers as full participants in the planning, execution, and interpretation of experiments, to explore new directions such as model farms and master farmers, and to develop creative educational approaches to encourage practical problem solving. Collaborative efforts of universities, industry, farmer groups, and environmental organizations will be needed to fully empower the individual farm manager to make rational and environmentally sound production decisions in the future.