Transition Barriers to Organic Farming among Paddy Farmers in Mazandaran Province

The purpose of this research was to analyze the transition barriers to organic farming among paddy farmers in Mazandaran province. This study was a qualitative research and the case study approach was used to fulfill the purpose. Statistical population were the organic paddy farmers that had received certification of healthy product from Standard Organization of Mazandaran province. Based on a purposive sampling approach, 15 samples were interviewed. The main instrument for data collection was an open-ended questionnaire (protocol). The in-depth interviews and field observations were used for data collection. The analysis of data was carried out through surveys, coding, category development processes. The results showed that the transition barriers to organic farming system include challenges and costs. Lack of knowledge, lack of governmental supports, fear of the future, inappropriate production and financing systems, lack of time and energy were respectively mentioned as the most important challenges and costs of the conversion to organic farming by paddy farmers.