ECONOMICS OF ON-FARM RESERVOIRS TO MANAGE RISK

Markéta Chalupová

Diplomová práce

Abstract:

Especially in dry parts of England, the agricultural sector faces water scarcity due to increasing competition for, and pressure on water sources. To secure water for irrigation needs, farmers invest in on-farm reservoirs. During recent years, the interest of farmers regarding the investment of on-farm reservoirs has increased, particularly in potato and vegetable production where irrigation is vital.The aim of this study is to determine behaviour of farmers in irrigation decisionmaking, through on-farm reservoirs to manage risk. Three objectives were set up to accomplish it: to determine the reasons why farmers decided to build a reservoir; to identify risks they think the reservoirs mitigate and what is their perception about reservoir itself; and lastly to find out how farmers make decisions about using water in reservoirs. Data for this research were collected through semi-structured interviews with potato farmers in England. Their answers served for comparison to previous models and discussion. The results conclude that farmers are aware of todays and future water scarcity which could threaten their production. Therefore, they implemented on-farm reservoirs to mitigate both economic and environmental risks related to the water scarcity. When deciding to irrigate, it was found farmers use water in a way to ensure high crop quality before high yield, ensuring their crops are saleable and thus securing the future of their business.

Keywords

Agriculture, Potato production, Decision-making, Irrigation, Water scarcity

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 6. 4. 2016

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Vedoucí: Ing. Petr Procházka, MSc Ph.D.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Provozně ekonomická fakulta

Magisterský studijní program / obor:
Economics and Management / Economics and Management