title: Farmers' perceptions and attitudes towards the development of the sheep and goat sector in the Greek region of Evros.
abstract: The present study endeavors to investigate the attitudes, opinions and perceptions of livestock farmers regarding the main problems they face and confine the development of livestock in the Greek region of Evros. Primary data were collected through a quantitative survey (structured questionnaire) with livestock farmers in the region. The analysis of the survey data was carried out with the use of descriptive statistics, Friedman's test and factor analysis. The results indicate that strategies for livestock development in the region should take into account the great dissatisfaction that exists towards public authorities and the level of satisfaction as regards the non-governmental bodies. Furthermore, the economic objectives are of primary importance for livestock farmers, whereas they stress their interest in training and know-how. Particularly on issues pertaining to dairy livestock management, improving sanitation conditions and enhancing the quality, digestibility and production of animal feed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Agricultural Development and Agribusiness Management, Alexander Technology Educational Institute of Thessaloniki, Sindos, 57400 Thessaloníki, Greece.
authors.forename: Stamatis
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Aggelopoulos
authors.affiliation: Department of Agricultural Development, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 68200 Orestiada, Greece.
authors.forename: Christos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Karelakis
authors.affiliation: Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 68200 Orestiada, Greece.
authors.forename: Georgios
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Tsantopoulos
authors.affiliation: Department of Agricultural Development and Agribusiness Management, Alexander Technology Educational Institute of Thessaloniki, Sindos, 57400 Thessaloníki, Greece.
authors.forename: Alexandra
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Pavloudi
authors.affiliation: Department of Forestry and Management of the Environment and Natural Resources, Democritus University of Thrace, Pantazidou 193, 68200 Orestiada, Greece.
authors.forename: Paschalis
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Seitanis
keywords: Evros; Farmer attitudes; Farmers’ opinion; Farming practices; Sustainable development