The value of a boundary organization in mediating knowledge on sustainable farming systems

Abstract

What is the value of a boundary organisation in offering the "space" for farming systems research (FSR) and local knowledge to interact? Can it offer a space that allows for non-linear discussion of research findings and the potential for farmer experimentation/expressionism of FSR to test its performance "in time" and "in place". Scientific research demands that the realities of time and place are kept under control to allow for replication and scientific rigour. However, when it comes to performance criteria of a farming system then time and place are important variables that need to be tested through local application. Local adaptation of FSR is often required to test its true worth since most research is undertaken under circumstances and conditions different to those found locally. The ability to transform scientific knowledge to specific contexts is often highly dependent on willingness of farmers to co-operate, to take an idea on and place it into action. Can a boundary organisation mediate between FSR and local farmers to improve the level of practice change based on FSR? We analysed 8 field days (about on-farm research) and 1 forum with a total of 138 participants (57% farmers, 11% agribusiness, 12% researchers, 17% NRM and 2% other) to examine if we are creating the "space" for such discussion of FSR "in time" and "in place".