Needs and constraints faced by the small-scale farmer in the San Pedro River Valley, Pinal County, Arizona

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess what the small-scale farmers of the San Pedro River Valley, Pinal County, Arizona perceived as their educational needs and non-educational constraints concerning agriculture and to supply supporting information to further comprehension of their situations. The method used was a descriptive study which utilized a questionnaire. The accessible population for this study was comprised of two groups--22 families identified from Cooperative Extension Service mailing lists and 19 families from the survey area who volunteered their inclusion. Soil fertility and food production/preservation techniques were deemed most important needs. Severe soil conditions, financial limitations, and limited markets warranted most concern. The most common profile exhibited by farmers reflected: (1) land assets less than five acres; (2) involvement less than five hours daily; and (3) poultry, vegetable and/or fruit enterprises. The popularly voiced motivation and aspiration of the group was oriented to self-sufficient living.