Innovative Networks In Conservation Agriculture: Bajio Hub Case Study, Mexico

Understanding the complexity and strength of innovation networks that disseminate knowledge about agriculture is important because these innovation networks allow actors to integrate needs, actions and results when public and private actors cooperate. The study shows that Conservation Agriculture (CA) farmers are central to the networks as a whole, both in terms of information seeking and information gathering. Moreover, when the study focused on a micro network, it was demonstrated that these CA farmers are key actors and play an important role for diffusion of CA. Ancient agricultural knowledge shapes the way farmers ultimately apply the principles of CA: Minimal soil disturbance (no-till) and permanent soil cover (mulch) combined with crops rotations. CA is conceived as a system developed with and for farmers. This study was conducted in West-Central Mexico. The analysis involved a two-stage stratified sampling statistical model, oversampling for CA farmers from a state census of farmers growing sorghum and maize. The findings in this study add evidence to the idea that network analysis is important as a helpful tool when there are reduced resources and time. Finally the study shows the efficiency and efficacy of network analysis as a strategic methodological tool to design, operate, follow up, evaluate and control social public policies.