Risk and Risk Management As Perceived By Potato Growers in Ardabil County

The aims of this study were to examine risk attitude, perceptions of risk sources and risk management strategies as perceived by potato growers in Ardabil County. It is an explanatory and applied study. Descriptive- survey research method was used in this study. Potato growers of the county were consisted the statistical population of the study from which, a sample of 130 farmers was selected and the data collected using a questionnaire. The instrument was validated by a panel of experts. A pilot study was conducted for reliability with the contribution of 30 farmers. The Alpha values of 0.813, 0.906 and 0.676 reached for attitude, perception of risk sources and risk strategies scales, respectively. Results showed that most of the respondents were relatively risk averse. Regarding farm size, extension participation, nonfarm income and farm and machinery values there was significant differences between the two groups. Price fluctuations, lack of potato market, yield change, climate change, agrochemicals over application, and lack of water were key sources of risk as perceived by farmers. Six factors of risk sources viz. production and cost, sale, regulations, logistic, production security, and pests were derived from factor analysis. As well as, change in planting and harvesting times, leased or collective use of machinery, input forward purchasing, and change in irrigation systems were perceived as key strategies. Three risk management factors, viz. technology change, cost management, and resources optimum use were derived from factor analysis.