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Organic Farming: Effects on Endogenous Development, Local Resources and Network Creation — The Case of Basilicata

Stefano Grando
[History] Paper presented at the European Society for Rural Sociology, 20th Biennial Conference, Sligo, Ireland, 19-22 August 2003
January 2004

The research aimed at understanding the effects of organic farming diffusion on rural development paths in central Mezzogiorno. It analyses how the presence of organic farmers fosters the exploitation of endogenous resources and the establishment of links, synergies and networks in surrounding areas. To address these issues, interviews were conducted (through questionnaires) with organic farmers from the northern part of Potenza province, in Basilicata. Findings were analysed within the theoretical frameworks provided by both an endogenous development model and horizontal networks approach. This led to a classification of organic farmers into three styles of production: "traditional", "pragmatic" and "idealist". These established different relational patterns with their natural, socio-cultural and economical environments. The first group seems not likely to promote endogenous development, or to establish peculiar links as a consequence of the organic choice. The main effect of organic conversion is the mere possibility for them to survive (thanks to subsidies) in marginal areas. The second group shows a much more pro-active attitude related to the choice of farming organically. They promote re-discovery and exploitation of local resources and their careful introduction from other areas. They are also part of local networks, based on integration and differentiation. Nevertheless, these processes still seem to be at an early stage, and not always or not clearly related to their being "organic". A key point, in this respect, is the presence of a critical mass of local organic farmers. The third group reveals the highest level of consciousness of peculiarities and potentials of organic farming. They bring enthusiasm and new ideas in the area, potentially acting as catalysts and examples for colleagues. Nevertheless, some problems hamper them from playing this role: their networks are not locally based, so that their relations with local actors are weak, or sometimes sharply conflictual. Evidences from central Mezzogiorno suggest that the presence of organic farmers does not automatically entail peculiar effects on endogenous development paths and network creation. Further characters are to be taken into account.