Partial characterization of agricultural-machinery contractor services in the micro region 2 - La Pampa province, Argentina

Abstract

The introduction of new technologies such as direct sowing and transgenic seeds, have caused significant changes in production, economic, social and environmental aspects. In this context, the figure of contractor services of agricultural machinery, markedly increased their participation in agricultural activities, not only in the Pampas region, but also in the extra-pampeanas regions as a result of the shifting of the agricultural frontier. In the La Pampa province, these contractors are actively involved in the agricultural production process. However, beyond the data from national agricultural census - which currently become obsolete -, little is known about empirical studies showing the reality and importance of this social actor. The aim of this study was to characterize the socioeconomic, technological and productive relevance of the contractors that residing in the southern towns of micro-region 2 in the La Pampa province. The methodological strategy is based on analysis of primary information gathered from surveys of 31 contractors that make up a sample of the universe of study. The main results show a heterogeneity of scales, clients and services offered.