Determinants of farmers’ perception of climate change

Abstract

The dairy production sector has recently undergone significant changes due to climatic factors, such as rise in temperatures, which stands out as one of the main challenges affecting the health, welfare, and productivity of dairy cows. Objective: this study aimed to evaluate the knowledge and perception of farmers regarding climate change and to identify the preventive measures they implement to mitigate its impact on animal health and productivity Methodology: a qualitative and quantitative approach was used. A questionnaire was applied to 52 dairy farmers in geulma and taref. Data collection was carried out through direct face- to-face interviews, which allowed for clarification of certain questions when necessary and ensured the accuracy and reliability of responses. The questionnaire focused on assessing farmers socioeconomic characteristics, the knowledge and perception of milk producers regarding climate change, its impact on their herds, and milk production, as well as the adaptative strategies that were implemented to mitigate the effects of heat stress Results: The findings from this study revealed that out of the eleven factors surveyed; Topography (P= 0,006), pluriactivity (P= 0,081), training received (P= 0,020), bovine breeds (P= 0,010), and cattle’s number( P= 0,015) were determining farmers’ perception of climate change in the studied area . Conclusion: Our results highlight the determinants of farmers’ perception of climate change, and gives prove of an important link between farmers perception and knowledge and how it shapes their adaptive measurements and business choices, and therefore their production