7 pages., ebook ISBN 978-3-319-90835-9, Via ebook chapter., The article studies the main reasons for low level of information provision of agricultural production, including the absence of legal documents on systemic development of informatization; imperfection of applied forms and methods of operative planning and regulation of technological processes in most agricultural organizations; unpreparedness of most managers and specialists in agriculture in the sphere of effective usage of scientific methods for managing production processes. The offers for creation of a single three-level automated information and management system are given; it is an initial and necessary condition for improvement of management of agricultural production, improvement of organizational and economic mechanism of management of production processes in the sphere, and implementation of digital economy. Besides, two variants of development of informatization in agricultural production are provided. The first one is the classic variant, based on studying the management object, design of its tasks and functions, and the second is based on creation of a three-level information system of managing the system in the country’s regions.
24 pages, Farmer-led research (FLR) is a process of inquiry wherein farmers use scientific methods to address their own on-farm curiosities and challenges in ways that are compatible with the scale and management style of their operations. With its flexible, adaptable, participatory, grassroots-oriented nature, FLR has typically been employed by farmers interested in ecological farming techniques and technologies, and evidence shows that it contributes to the adoption and improvement of ecological management practices across a range of contexts. Engagement in FLR initiatives has also been linked to positive social outcomes, including community-building, farmer empowerment, and enhanced capacity for leadership and collective action. In this paper, we present a case study of the Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario’s (EFAO) Farmer-Led Research Program (FLRP), which is currently one of relatively few FLR initiatives in North America. We draw on data from a participatory, mixed-methods research project. Our results highlight how the FLRP is enabling farmers to feel more knowledgeable, confident, motivated, and inspired to adopt and/or improve ecological practices on their farms, in part by supporting them in building robust social networks that align with their farming values and priorities.