General Evaluation of Dry Bean Landraces in Farmers' Field in Terms of Natural Resource Economics in The Middle Kizilirmak Valley of Turkey

Abstract

Albeit it is not the homeland of dry beans, Turkey is an important country by having its micro-gene centers, genetic diversity and food culture. This research was conducted in Middle Kizilirmak Valley where we have important place for dry bean production. In the study, 140 dry bean landrace (DBL) producers interviewed face to face for fulfilling the questionnaire forms. The producers divided into 2 groups as home garden type producers (HGP) and field type producers (FP). In this study, the general characteristics of DBL producers and produced DBL, and the reasons for choosing these populations were determined. In addition, the producers 'perspectives in terms of economic (economic aspect of rural development) and genetic resources (natural resources) have been investigated. As a result, 2-year production periods of the DBL producers in the research area were evaluated and it was found that there was a contraction in the dry bean landrace production area (about 50%). It has been determined that small farmers play an important role in the conservation, and they are more sensitive in the protection of genetic resources. We need to have more studies and policies that include conservation and sustainability with economically better potentials.