EXPECTATIONS FROM AGRICULTURAL EXTENSION FOR DIVERSIFICATION OF RURAL ECONOMY

Rural development activities are focused on activities contributing to agricultural, economic, social and cultural development of rural areas. One of the main objectives of these activities is to improve potential sources of rural areas. Thus, diversifying economic activity is targeted to increase the level of welfare. Diversification of the rural economy by reducing farmers’ dependence on agriculture is to create alternative employment and income opportunities. In this study, first definition of diversification of the rural economy was determined. Then alternative activities in rural areas were examined. After that, expectations for successful rural diversification were evaluated. And then contributions of agricultural extension for rural diversification were examined.