Social research: insights into farmers' conversion to no-till farming systems

The conversion to no-till farming systems in the Victorian Mallee has been both recent and rapid. The Mallee Catchment Management Authority commissioned a project to begin the process of better understanding the no-till situation in the region by collecting local information regarding the extent of cropping practice change and the underlying reasons behind it. An exploratory social research approach was adopted using in-depth interviews as the primary means of data collection. Issues explored included: the extent and drivers of practice change, the reasons for some farmers maintaining a preference for cultivation, farmers' views about the profitability and sustainability of different tillage systems, farmers' preferences for accessing information to assist practice change, and their expectations and opinions about the role and value of agencies, producer groups, private advisors and resellers. Farmers changing to no-till are seeking greater flexibility around sowing decisions, agronomic gains and increased efficiency in their operation. They are accessing the services of private advisors to assist in making the change. In contrast, Multiple-till farmers are concerned about profitability and not yet convinced that no-till will advance their goals. They have specific concerns about the value of a no-till system on heavier soils. The findings reinforce the importance of understanding motivations for adoption of practices and designing extension activities around this