Climate adaptation information needs of limited resource farmers in California.

Abstract California’s agricultural production is facing ever-growing challenges due to climate change. We conducted a needs assessment of farmers in California in 2023, to better understand their climate change challenges, experiences, and resource and information needs. This study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design with a questionnaire created and distributed using Qualtrics. Out of the 341 usable survey responses post-data cleaning, 75 selected were limited-resource farmers, socially disadvantaged farmers, and first generation farmers. Two focus groups were conducted in the Central Valley of California involving 19 smallholder Hmong farmers to ascertain the climate-related impacts experienced by these farmers, delve into the strategies to tackle climate change risks, and identify climate change information and resources needed to mitigate challenges. The survey and focus group show similar findings, indicating that farmers are very concerned about several issues, including increased uncertainty in irrigation water availability, increased crop damage due to extreme heat, and worsening drought severity on their farms. Survey and focus group results also revealed farmers are changing their irrigation practices to mitigate climate-related risks, particularly extreme heat and severe drought on their farms. Focus group discussions emphasized adaptations like using shading and adjusting planting seasons to protect crops, while survey results highlighted the adaptation strategies aimed at soil health improvement, including building organic matter, mulching, and adopting reduced or no-till approaches. While already implementing climate adaptation strategies to mitigate risks, these farmers also expressed needs for more education on specific adaptation practices, including weather prediction tools, methods to enhance soil health, and efficient irrigation practices. Additionally, they sought guidance about applying for government funding opportunities, access to insurance, and climate adaptive strategies. Finally, Hmong farmers broadly indicated they preferred in-person workshops featuring climate-related information presented through videos and hands-on activities, which could effectively enhance their ability to adapt to climate change challenges.