Younger Estonian farmers more willing to take risks
A new study finds that younger, better-educated Estonian farmers are more open to new technology and innovation, while older growers prioritise stability.
Researchers from the Center of Estonian Rural Research and Knowledge (METK) and the Estonian University of Life Sciences (EMÜ) analysed responses from 541 Estonian crop farmers to understand their attitudes towards risk. The results show that younger, more educated farmers and those with larger landholdings are the most willing to take risks.
According to the study, older farmers tend to favour a stable income over long-term investments as they approach retirement. Larger farms, on the other hand, can afford to take more chances thanks to stronger financial buffers.
Organic farmers and supporters of crop insurance were also found to be generally more open to innovation. Horticultural and perennial crop growers rated themselves as more risk-tolerant than grain producers. The researchers point out that this reflects practical realities: fruit and berry growers must often make quick decisions because their harvest spoils rapidly, while grain can be stored and sold later.
Farmers willing to take risks were most likely to invest in new machinery and technology rather than experiment with unfamiliar crops or cultivation methods. The findings could help shape national agricultural policy as climate change and volatile markets force farmers to adapt. The researchers suggest encouraging educational and generational renewal, while designing support programmes for innovation that account for different farmer profiles.
The study was published in the journal Q Open.
