We investigate whether social capital in the form of community involvement
affects farmers' choice to use sustainable agricultural practices. Using
associational memberships as a measure of community involvement we study its
effects on agricultural practices among Georgia farmers. Our findings show
that, first, community involvement had a positive effect on the decision to
adopt sustainable agricultural practices, and, secondly, it also had a
positive effect on the extent to which farmers adopt these practices. These
findings establish an additional dimension to the benefits that would accrue
to policies that promote social interaction and civic engagement in rural
areas.