Factor Analysis of Paddy Fields Consolidation Barriers in Iran (Case of Western part of Guilan Province)

Abstract

The aim of this study was to identify the deterrent factors in implementation of Land Consolidation (LC) projects in paddy fields of west
part of Guilan Province, Iran. The correlational design was used for the research. The statistical population included all 119 agricultural
experts working at the Agricultural Organization (Jihad-e-Keshavarzi) offices in the studied region. Data were collected through a survey
using a semi-structured questionnaire with a five-point Likert-type scale, which was validated by a panel of experts and found to have
sufficient content and face validity. The reliability alpha coefficient (0.84) indicates internal consistency of the scale. Results showed that
“delays in the allocation of agricultural lands”, “incomplete side projects such as sand planning and irrigation water tubing”, “lack of trust
regarding fair distribution of new paddy fields”, and “untimely implementation of the LC projects” were the most effective deterrents in the
LC projects. Using the factor analysis technique, the deterrent factors were classified into five groups: utilization system, technical-executive,
social, conflict-related, and educational. Overall, these factors described 61.90% of the total variance.