Social assessment of beneficiaries to planned irrigation schemes in the framework of Slovenia irrigation project

Abstract

The article presents the results of social assessment study conducted on different beneficiary groups in the framework of Slovenia Irrigation Project. We have analysed 13 sub-project areas, where opinion polls were made on sample of farming households, and groups discussions with beneficiaries groups were held. We interviewed farmers, representatives of NGOs, and representatives of official institutions and agricultural support services. The results show that in all areas there is an interest for introduction of irrigation. This interest is connected with expected benefits: higher yields, better quality and reduction of risks because of draughts. The farmers are ready to financially contribute for on-farm equipment up to 100%, as far as primary distribution net is concerned the majority shares the opinion, that this is an infrastructure and it has to be financed from the state.