Information management and family farm of western of santa catarina region Informação e gestão na agricultura familiar da região oeste de santa catarina

This study aimed to identify and analyze the sources of information and the elements in the management of rural properties that contribute to the farmer learning. In western Santa Catarina region the survey was conducted, using a questionnaire to collect data on 59 family farms, in 2011. Data linked to income obtained from their different activities, variables that characterize the producer and rural property, management practices and sources of information used by farmers were collected. The farms were classified into three groups according to gross monetary income obtained from agricultural and livestock activities and the data were subjected to multivariate statistical analysis using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results indicate a strong positive association between especially the more sophisticated management practices and the increase in gross monetary income of agricultural activities and livestock properties. However the practice of management is characterized by being basic and informal, and requires significant advances with respect to records and obtaining indicators that support decision making. Learning is significantly improved when farmers expand their relations with the outside world via the cooperative association, internet, service and relationship with suppliers, also allowing greater access to a wide range of information sources. Thus, the limits are shown in the management of properties in relation to information management, planning, execution and control of activities and the sharing of learning in the procedure