THE MEMBERS' EXPECTATIONS FROM THE AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVE ACTIVITIES: A CASES OF ÇELTIKÇI DISTRICT IN THE BURDUR PROVINCE

Abstract

In this study, the satisfaction levels of the members of the agricultural cooperatives operating in Çeltikçi district of Burdur province,Turkey were measured. Various characteristics of cooperative members were examined, and their expectations from services of the agricultural cooperatives were ascertained. The data were obtained through questionnaires from 122 members of agricultural cooperatives in Çeltikçi district of Burdur province during March-2013. It was understood that agricultural cooperative membership was widespread in the region. Animal husbandry was an important production filed focused on. According to the findings, cooperative members were generally primary school graduates. The average age was 53.54 years. They had over 31 years of experience in agricultural activity. One in four was holding a non-agricultural job as well. Therefore, the critical item of annual costs was feed costs and credit usage and borrowing had increased in the region compared to the 2000s. About 77% of the amount of milk sold by surveyed individuals in 2012 was brought to the market through co-operatives. The members received 70% of the amount of feed they used through cooperatives. In order to increase the use of agricultural cooperative products by the members of the cooperatives in the region, it was stated that cooperatives should provide adequate credits, set input prices at appropriate levels and lower interest rates. In order increase efficiency of cooperatives due to their members, the cooperatives should increase the quality of service they offer their members.

Keywords

• Agricultural cooperatives,expectations,farmer,Burdur,Turkey

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