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Abstract
An aggressive research and validation program launched in 1984 in Azuero, Panama, yielded a
recommendation advocating zero tillage for maize production. Ten years later, maize farmers in
Azuero used three land preparation methods: conventional tillage, zero tillage, and minimum
tillage (an adaptation of the zero tillage technology). This study aimed to quantify the adoption
of zero and minimum tillage for maize in Azuero; identify factors influencing adoption of the
different land preparation practices; and analyze the implications of the findings for future
maize research and extension. Between 1985 and 1994, farmers in Region I of Azuero changed
from conventional tillage to zero (33%) and minimum tillage (43%). In Regions II and III, most
farmers still practiced conventional tillage in 1994, although 34% had switched to minimum
tillage. Across regions, adoption of conservation tillage was motivated by potential cost savings
rather than longer term considerations such as reduced soil erosion. The factors that limit
adoption of conservation tillage vary by region. In Region I, adoption of conservation tillage is
limited by land rental rather than ownership and by lack of conservation tillage planting
equipment. In Regions II and III, lack of information about conservation tillage technology
limits the probability of adoption. Future research should examine soil compaction, a key
variable for understanding differences between the adoption of minimum and zero tillage.
Another area that merits further research is the link between weeds and conservation tillage:
several farmers reported using the technology to obtain better weed control. The long-term
effects of conservation tillage should also be assessed. Extension in Regions II and III should
seek to accelerate adoption of conservation tillage, particularly zero tillage. In Region I,
extension should steer the change process from minimum to zero tillage.