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Technical and social aspects of organic dairy farms in Northwest Spain

Abstract:

The aim of this study was to characterize social and technical aspects of organic dairy farms located in the Norwest of Spain. The sample (15 farms) was randomly selected with proportional allocation by region (Galicia, Cantabria and Asturias) and was surveyed in 2007. Thirty one variables connected with, a) the business profile of the farm and farmer, b) women's participation, and c) marketing, were analyzed. Results show that 94% of farms were familiar enterprises, mostly owners are sole owners (46.6%); the farms have operated before, on average, 15.6 years. Each farm (95.1% of cases) generates an average of 2.2 stable jobs and guarantees a maintenance to 4.2 people. The average farmer is a man (80.0%) 41 years old, with two children and has received primary studies (46.6%). In the short term, 93.3% of farmers want to continue with the activity; while in the long term, farmer's children will continue with the activity (46.6%). Women are better educated, and actively involved in 53.3% of farms. The level of associationism is high and 76.6% of the milk produced is sold by organic channels.