Farmer-led research to support the adoption of agro-ecological practices in Ontario

Peer-learning programs offer an effective approach to promoting agro-ecological systems that support resilience and profitability while addressing challenges like climate change. As a specific type of peer-learning, farmer-led research (FLR) values farmer knowledge as formal knowledge by supporting practical on-farm research and farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing. Through FLR, farmers use scientific methods to address their on-farm curiosities and challenges in ways that are compatible with the scale and management of their operations—and share their findings freely with other farmers. With its flexible and participatory nature, evidence shows that FLR contributes to the adoption and improvement of agro-ecological management practices across a range of contexts. Engagement in FLR initiatives has also been linked to positive social outcomes, including community building and enhanced capacity for leadership. In this paper, we present a case study of the Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario’s (EFAO) FLR program, which is currently one of few FLR initiatives in North America. Using a participatory, mixed-methods research approach, we conducted a survey, workshops and interviews to collect data from EFAO farmer-members including those participating in EFAO’s FLR program and those not involved in the program. The results highlight how EFAO’s FLR program is enabling farmers to feel more knowledgeable, confident and motivated to adopt and/or improve agro-ecological practices, in part by supporting them in building robust social networks that align with their farming priorities. Given the decline of publicly funded agricultural research and extension in Ontario and the cost-effectiveness of farmer-led research, limited public and private funds can be strategically invested to yield significant impacts in supporting farmer-led research programs. These programs can effectively drive the adoption of innovative agro-ecological agriculture across a wider range of farms.