Decision Making for Adopting Good Agricultural Practices: A Case Study of Longan in Lamphun Province

Abstract

This article aimed to study the factors influencing the decision-making process of longan growers under good agricultural practices in Lamphun Province. Data was collected from a sample of 400 longan growers in Lamphun Province. Descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including percentages, means, t-tests, F-tests, and logit model analysis, were utilized for data analysis. The study findings reveal that gender, educational level, monthly household income, and pre-existing health conditions among farmers have a significant statistical impact on the decision to participate in Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). These variables were found to differ significantly at a significance level of 0.05. However, the logistic regression analysis indicated that the average yield per rai and the presence of comorbidities did not demonstrate statistically significant effects at an acceptable level. The study also revealed that age, level of education, experience in Longan planting, and the area dedicated to growing Longan exerted a negative marginal effect on the decision to participate in GAP. Indeed, the study indicated that certain factors, such as older age, higher education level, more experience in growing longan, and having larger areas dedicated to longan cultivation, are associated with a reduced likelihood of farmers deciding to join GAP program. Therefore, relevant government agencies must demonstrate the benefits of GAP to large-scale agricultural enterprises or an aging population. For example, the implementation of technology suitable for elderly individuals or the use of chemical substances that are safe for health.