Risk perception and adaptation of riparian farmers to extreme weather events in the Maule river basin (Chile)

Extreme weather events intensified by climate change have significantly affected the agricultural sector, especially river valley agriculture worldwide. This study aims to assess how riparian farmers perceive climate risks and how these perceptions influence the adoption of adaptation strategies. To this end, a survey was designed and administered to 206 small and mid-size farmers. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) using principal components validated the dimensions of risk perception, and the chi-squared test (Fisher’s exact test) was used to analyze the relationships between variables. The results revealed that flooding is the hazard with the greatest perceived impact (79%), followed by frosts (42%) and drought (35%). Although 72% of the farmers express high concern over these hazards, only 58% feel prepared to face them, with factors such as previous experience, social organization, education level, and land tenure being determining factors. The reported adaptation level was low to moderate, with water management highlighted as the most implemented strategy (43%). Adoption of adaptation strategies was associated positively with direct experience with flooding, risk awareness, the perception of severity, learning from previous experiences, and feelings of concern, sadness, and fear. This study highlights the importance of perceptual factors in farmer adaptation as a strategic input for the design of adaptation plans and policies in agricultural zones to strengthen resilience to extreme weather events.