How do Texas Conventional and Organic Producers Differ in their Perceptions of Barriers to Organic Production?

Abstract

In response to an increase in consumer demand for organic products, the number of organic operations has increased in the U.S. However, unlike the rest of the U.S., the number of certified organic operations in Texas has remained relatively stable. As a means to understand the perceived barriers to the adoption of organic production practices in Texas, a survey was distributed to a stratified sample of 4006 Texas producers. The difference in perception of barriers (from both market and production standpoints) to organic production between organic (or in the process) and conventional producers was assessed. In general, conventional producers perceived barriers to entry to be more severe than organic producers.