Empirical Analysis and Modelling of Information and Communications Technology in Agriculture for Southern Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Information and communications technology (ICT) represents an important enabling technology for on-farm operations that helps to maximise yield and minimise on-farm inputs. This study investigates the adoption factors and coverage characteristics of ICT in Southern Ontario. A set of eight site and situation adoption factors were identified explaining 57% of the variation in agricultural high-speed Internet utilisation for Southern Ontario. ICT coverage was assessed through service carrier and band factors, and their presence in rural settlements. Findings of the research indicate that there exists a digital divide among settlements in Southern Ontario and recommendations for targeted policy and investment in infrastructure are proposed to bridge the gap.