Knowledge of Sustainable Agriculture Practices by Extension Agents in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia

Abstract

The purpose of the study reported here was to determine the level of knowledge and attitudes that Extension educators possess concerning the numerous dimensions of sustainable agriculture. A descriptive research design was used to collect data from Extension agents in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. Extension agents were familiar with and associated terms such as environmental protection, small-scale agriculture, profitability, low chemical input, productivity, and organic farming with sustainable agriculture. Extension agents also expressed a need for training in a number of areas related to sustainable agriculture and its practices