ARS | Publication request: RESEARCH MODELS FOR MAXIMIZING THE IMPACT OF ORGANIC RESEARCH CONDUCTED WITH LIMITED RESOURCES

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: March 10, 2000
Publication Date: August 20, 2000
Citation: Bull, C.T. 2000. Research models for maximizing the impact of organic research conducted with limited resources. Meeting Abstract. In "Proceeding of the 13th International IFOAM Scientific Conference". Alfoldi, T., Lockeretz, W. Niggli, U. (eds.).

Technical Abstract: Research funds are limiting for all sectors of agriculture, however research on organic farming systems receives a disproportionately small fraction of available funds. Low research budgets have necessitated that groups work together to maximize the impact of research dollars received. In California, representatives from the farming community, nongovernmental organizations, state and federal agencies, and industry have worked together to provide research that is pertinent to producers. The evolving research models involve direct and early participation of growers in the research process. These models have been used successfully to maximize the impact of research conducted with limited funds for conventional farming needs. Participatory models will be more important for insuring that research conducted to address the needs of organic farmers has its maximum impact. A participatory research model is currently being used to conduct organic research in California.