Date of Graduation

Spring 2008

Degree

Master of Natural and Applied Science in Agriculture

Department

College of Agriculture

Committee Chair

Elizabeth L. Walker

Abstract

A survey of 4,200 Missouri livestock producers was performed to determine impact of respondent demographics and source of information on perception of the National Animal Identification System (NAIS). Written surveys using a Likert-type scale to indicate perception of NAIS in a favorable light were used with 1 being less favorable and 7 more favorable were mailed on March 23, 2007 with a response rate of 14.7%. Data were analyzed through a series of correlations, independent t-tests, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Individuals with less than a Bachelors degree did not view NAIS (3.50 +- 0.06) as favorably as individuals with a Bachelors degree or higher (3.79 +- 0.09; p < 0.02). Other factors influencing NAIS perception included owning a home computer with or without internet, the use of external animal identification, adoption of new production practices, number of acres managed, and farm income (p < 0.05). Number of external animal identification methods used, number of species of animals owned, and district of the state where the producer lived were also significant (p < 0.05). Perception of NAIS was correlated with information regarding NAIS from government websites, organized producer events, and producer groups supporting NAIS (p < 0.05). Additionally, NAIS perception was correlated with confidence in news sources such as radio news, popular press magazines, radio news programs, and internet news (p < 0.05). Missouri livestock producers have expressed concerns about the implementation of NAIS. Several demographic variables impact perception of NAIS in Missouri, including educational status, farm size and profitability. Knowing the variables that impact perception of NAIS might help national and state agencies develop educational programs for NAIS within specific target demographics.

Keywords

National Animal Identification System, Missouri, Livestock Producers, Controversy, Farm

Subject Categories

Agriculture

Copyright

© Bryan L. Deimeke

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