Agricultural education in Achocalla

LOCATION: 7 comunities in Municipality Achocalla
DURATION: 2009-2010
PICTURES: -
DESCRIPTION: Contribute to a sustainable and raised agriculture production, by means of education to farmers, aimed at a more efficient use of ground, water and vegetation, so that erosion of the ground will be reduced and the farmers will be less dependent on art manure and pesticides.

Problem:

The ecological balance has been upset the frequent use of artificial manure and agriculture chemicals. Through erosion, the soil loses its natural fertility and the plants are more vulnerable to diseases and plagues. The last years the deterioration in the ecology is clearly visible; the colors of the soils are changing. Research shows that intervene is necessary to improve production and to prevent irreparable damage.

Solution:

By agriculture education and practical training (15 workshops) this project is aimed at:
- The construction of terraces, to reduce soil erosion and improve the profit of rain water. In wet soil the fertility will improve by the presence of micro organisms.
- The use of organic manure instead of artificial manure.
- Alternation of crops and improvement of production techniques, from sowing to harvest, in order to reduce the presence of diseases and plagues.

Expected results:

- Conscience and knowledge about agrarian-ecological production techniques and sustainable use of soil, water and vegetation.
- Reassertion (LINK) of traditional agriculture and conservation techniques.
- Ecological convalescence of the agricultural grounds and a reduction of the use of pesticides and artificial manure.
- Higher (natural) fertility and humidity degree of the soil, more output of the soil and vegetables with improved qualities.

FUNDING: Chakana, Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs