Özet:

Agricultural production relies heavily on the climate, which has been changing constantly in recent years. This study conducted in order to determine small ruminant breeders' perception of climate change, their adaptation strategies and barriers to adaptation. The meteorological data obtained from Karaman Provincial Directorate of Meteorology between 1970-2019 were used to notice the changes in climate. Primary data was obtained through a survey with the members of Sheep and Goat Breeders Union. The sample size, according to the random sampling method, composed 118 breeders the data was analyzed by binary logistic regression method. The dependent variable in the model is adaptation status and 12 independent variables were determined. According to the results of logistic regression analysis, age, experience, attitude towards innovations, believing or not believing in climate change and witnessing extreme weather events in the region were found statistically significant. While the others, gender, educational background, number of animals, farm size, other income, agricultural income and total income, were found statistically insignificant (P<0.05). The usage of concentrate feed, forage crop production, diversity in agricultural production and breeding more resistant species against diseases and droughts were identified as major adaptation practices. Lack of information was found the most important barrier to adapt to climate change. The training activities should be organized for regular notifications concerning the impacts of climate change on agricultural production and future projection. Restructuring government aids in consideration of regional climate conditions shall facilitate the adaptation of breeders. The detailed studies are needed in Turkey. All sub-components of agricultural production should be discussed separately.

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