The Influence of Social Networks on Agricultural Technology Adoption

This paper applies Social Network Analysis (SNA) to the effects of professional collaboration within social networks on farmers’ decision-making behavior when adopting irrigation technology. This paper addresses professional collaboration found in tenure relations, social and professional organizations. The sample consists of 195 fields farmed over a five-year period in southeast Texas by 37 farmers. The analysis suggests that participation in organizations is a key factor influencing adoption of irrigation technology. After initial implementation by central farmers, technology is transferred either through tenant or kinship relationships. Results suggest that ownership-stake is a factor as to whether a farmer participates in organizations.