Involvement of farms in demonstration activities for economic and social purposes: Lithuanian case study

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the farms’ demonstration activities, focusing of the main purposes of on-farm demonstrations in Lithuania. The survey of 30 Lithuanian farms, providing demonstration activities was performed in October and November 2017, as the part of European Commission project “Peer-to-peer learning: Accessing Innovation through Demonstration, Tender “National Inventories of Demonstration Farms in Lithuania”. Results showed that in Lithuania, the majority of on-farm demonstrations were implemented in farms focused on experimental activities. Usually younger farmers and participants of different EU projects actively chose to host the demonstrations. The purposes of the demonstrations were diverse, but often focused on increasing farmer profit. Some demonstrations were undertaken to educate the society about agricultural activities, or highlight the issues in creation of environmental goods, preservation of environment, livestock welfare, etc. or to present the new technologies used in agricultural activities. Some demonstrators showed ongoing research innovations developed under the framework of joint projects with universities. Commercially available new products or management systems were also shown during the on-farm demonstration. In conclusion, interest in the demonstrations taking place on farms in Lithuania was increasing. Farmers’ willingness to host their own demonstrations would be stronger with availability of funding. Farmers need more information about the benefits of demonstration activities to attract more interest and willingness to participate. Innovative use of new technology may help communities become involved into the demonstration events. Farmers’ participation in European partnership projects, demonstration projects and information activities increases their competences, competitiveness, viability and generates additional income.