Extended Abstract

1. Introduction  

In semiarid agricultural ecosystems, where water is recognized as the primary limiting factor for agricultural crop productivity, effective irrigation management can reduce the yield gap and contribute to increased productivity and farmers’ income. Optimizing water resource utilization in agriculture through modern irrigation methods, particularly pressurized irrigation, and encouraging farmers to adopt and implement these techniques is considered essential. The adoption of innovative agricultural technologies, particularly irrigation technologies, is crucial for achieving sustainability and resilience in farming practices. Pressurized irrigation systems, including drip and sprinkler irrigation, can minimize water waste and maximize crop yields by ensuring that water is applied directly to the root zones of plants. However, the transition from conventional to modern methods requires not only access to technology but also farmers’ willingness to embrace these changes. Understanding the intricacies of this adoption process is critical for improving agricultural performance in these vulnerable ecosystems. Therefore, this research aims to examine the factors influencing the adoption of new pressurized irrigation systems in Golpayegan County, Isfahan Province, using the modified diffusion of innovations theory (IDT). The study aims to identify the characteristics and factors that may influence farmers’ willingness to adopt this technology. By applying the theoretical framework in this study, the research will examine various factors, including socioeconomic factors, attitudes towards the characteristics of the innovations, and information sources, to understand better what drives or hinders farmers’ willingness to adopt this essential technology.  The findings of this study could contribute to targeted interventions designed to enhance the dissemination of innovative irrigation practices.

2. Materials and Methods

This research is quantitative, applied, and descriptive-correlational, conducted using a survey method, with 363 farmers selected randomly using Cochran’s formula. Determining the sample size using Cochran’s formula (363 farmers), participants were randomly selected. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, which experts in the field validated, and its reliability was confirmed using Cronbach’s alpha (ranging from 0.71 to 0.94). The data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 20, allowing for intricate statistical examinations, including regression analysis and correlation calculations. These analyses aimed to uncover not only the relationships between the identified factors but also to quantify their strength and significance in influencing farmers’ adoption behaviors.

3. Results and Discussion

The results revealed the factors that determine the adoption of innovative irrigation practices among farmers in the study area. Social support, encompassing encouragement from peers and community networks, emerged as a vital determinant, highlighting the importance of social capital in agricultural innovation processes. Additionally, access to informal information sources, such as local agricultural extension services and farmer-to-farmer communication, was found to impact farmers' willingness to explore new irrigation technologies positively. A particularly noteworthy finding was from the attitude category, where "observability" exhibited the highest positive coefficient among innovation features. This issue indicates that the more visible the benefits of modern irrigation systems are to potential adopters, the greater their likelihood of accepting these technologies. Observable improvements, such as enhanced crop yields and reduced water use, serve as compelling motivators for farmers. Moreover, the variables of "relative advantage" and "trialability" were also found to play significant roles. Farmers are more inclined to adopt new methods if they perceive clear advantages over existing practices and if there are opportunities to trial innovations on a smaller scale before fully committing. The research highlights the significant role these social dynamics play in the adoption of agricultural innovations. Farmers often rely on their networks to share experiences and best practices, leveraging collective knowledge to inform their decisions. This insight suggests that initiatives aimed at strengthening these social and informational networks could serve as effective strategies for promoting the adoption of new agricultural technologies.

4. Conclusions

The prominent role of social support and informal information sources in explaining the willingness of irrigated wheat farmers to adopt modern irrigation systems suggests that strengthening social and informational networks can serve as effective strategies for promoting new agricultural technologies. Moreover, the importance of observability of the advantages of these systems emphasizes the necessity of providing practical evidence of their effectiveness. Therefore, policymakers should consider the fact that clear and observable information can play a crucial role in changing attitudes and facilitating the adoption of new technologies Ultimately, these findings underscore the importance of integrating social and economic approaches into technology development programs to achieve sustainable agricultural advancements and enhance livelihoods in semiarid regions.

5. Acknowledgment & Funding

The authors are thankful to all interview participants for supporting this research. The manuscript did not receive a grant from any organization.

6. Conflict of Interest

The authors declare no financial and non-financial conflict of interest orpersonal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.