Farmers learning from farmers

About the research

Farmers constantly need new knowledge in this rapidly changing world, for example on how to deal with climate change or what to do with new pests and diseases that threaten their crops. "Research shows that the best way for farmers to meet these challenges is to learn from other farmers," explains Simon Lox (ILVO - UAntwerp). He organises Farm Demonstration Networks, groups of 10 to 15 farmers who test new practices on their farms and then visit each other's farms to discuss, for example, the use of a weed control robot or a new crop variety. These networks are more than a simple transfer of knowledge. "When farmers talk to each other, they not only exchange information, but also meaning," he says.