An Evaluation of Farm Level Sustainability of Apricot Farms in Malatya Province of Turkey

Abstract

This study evaluates the farm level sustainability for apricot production and subsequently analyzes the effects of the socio-economic and environmental characteristics on farm level sustainability. Research data was collected from 89 randomly selected apricot farms in Malatya province of Turkey using a questionnaire. Twenty selected sustainability indicators were used to measure farm level sustainability. Results showed that sampled apricot farms had approximately 4 ha of farmland, and 67% of farmland in those farms was devoted to apricot growing. The average sustainability index value was 50% in the research area. Based on socio-economic sustainability indicators, it was clear that farm owners were in favor of continuing the apricot production and were negative about non-farm investment. Economic efficiency level of these farms was satisfactory. High levels of chemical fertilizer and pesticide use were the main environmental problems for the sustainability of the apricot farms. Research results also showed that the variables such as total land of the farms, land devoted to apricot farming, education level of farm owners and household size positively affected the farm level sustainability while idle labor affected negatively. Greater access to capital and education programs focused on the chemical use may accelerate the farm level sustainability.