Technical efficiency of water and determining the factors affecting adoption of new irrigation technology, with emphasis on the role of social capital (Pistachio producers in Sirjan)

Social capital as a qualitative factor of production is a tool to improve efficiency and productivity of farmers. One ways to achieve development is pay attention to social capital and empowerment and inform farmers by strengthening the various dimensions of this type of capital. Pistachio as a green gold has an important role in the agricultural sector of Sirjan. One of the biggest problems for pistachio farmers is the severe limitation of water resources. However, many farmers use the traditional method of irrigation. In this study, 285 pistachio farmers in Sirjan city were selected based on Cochran's formula. Then, they divided into 2 groups based on the type of irrigation method (traditional or modern). After that, different dimensions of social capital were evaluated based on Putnum (2000) and in the presence of this factor, the efficiency of water input was calculated. In addition, using the Tobit model, the factors affecting water efficiency and using the logit model, the factors affecting the adoption of new irrigation technology with emphasis on the role of social capital were studied. Data were collected using a questionnaire in 2018-19. According to the results, the social capital index in both groups was evaluated based on the dimensions of trust and norms and social cohesion at a medium level and in terms of participation and social networks at a low level. The average water efficiency (CRS) with and without social capital among farmers who use traditional irrigation methods were 31% and 27%, respectively. These values in the group of farmers who use new methods of irrigation were determined 67% and 58%, respectively. In addition, it was found that the variables of participation in water saving programs, education, social capital, water price and type of irrigation have a positive effect on water technical efficiency. The variables of access to bank credit, income, social capital and water price had the most positive effect on the acceptance of new irrigation by farmers. It is recommended that by consolidating the savings of small farmers and integrating orchards through agricultural cooperatives and water user associations, which are the most important sources of formation and strengthening social capital among farmers, steps can be taken to increase water efficiency and expand the use of modern irrigation system.