Based on empirical evidences and research findings, the conventional agricultural extension and research approaches in Iran, have failed in significantly contributing to the formulation and addressing the strategies of sustainability as regards agricultural systems in a diverse socio economic context. Farming systems research and extension (FSR/E) is a dynamic interactive process designed to enhance and positively increase the impact of systematic and coordinated agricultural research and extension activities. One of the main characteristics of this approach is that it is directed toward the problems of poor rural areas and in small farming systems. Therefore this approach can be best suited to the prevating conditions of Iranian small farmers. The main purpose of this research was to investigate the implications of introducing FSR/E in an Iranian context. This study was conducted within the general framework of a descriptive survey research. The statistical sample in the research, consisted of two groups of extension specialists (n = 55) and agricultural researche workers (n = 85), employees of the Ministry of Agricultural Jihad who were selected and studied while using proportionate stratified sampling method. Data were collected using a questionnaire the validity of which was confirmed by a jury of extension experts and the reliability of which was confirmed by calculating Coronbach's Alpha. Data analysis was accomplished using SPSS. Findings in this research indicated application of FSR/E approach in Iranian contexts necessisates that a set of infrastructure and educational approaches should be taken into consideration before launching any FSR/E programs in the country.
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