Mapping the extension capability of the Goulburn Valley fresh pear network

Abstract

Declining demand for canning and fresh pears, along with rising costs and diminishing returns, mean that Goulburn Valley pear growers are facing major production, market and investment decisions. Access to information and support about market opportunities, consumer preferences and quality protocols is critical for growers making reinvestment decisions; however increasing privatisation of advisory services makes it more difficult to source information. This study used social network analysis to understand how a sample of 25 pear growers use information networks to support their production and investment decision making. The findings show that growers' closest information-sharing relationship..