For a better recognition of the diversity of agriculture by institutions: example of the Vosges mountains

Abstract

A field study carried out in two valleys in the Vosges massif showed a high degree of diversity in the nature of the farms and the combinations of professional activity in each household. While this diversity is acknowledged, it is poorly catered for by institutional organisations. The farmers receiving the best training and benefiting most from development aid are those succeeding their parents. The desire of the main parties in the area is to maintain farming activity and the open landscape. This requires recognition of different farming methods, and not just by public services and agricultural development authorities. In our view it also requires new developments in research into how households function.