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In an attempt to produce agricultural technologies more suited to small farmers in more marginal production circumstances, more participatory and community-based approaches have been initiated in a number of Latin American countries. Honduras provides a good example. Ever increasing prices and lack of alternative, more sustainable agricultural practices have left small plot farmers and their families as nutrient deprived as their eroding hillside plots. CIALs, (Comite?s de Investigacio?n Agricola Locales) are a feasible alternative agricultural technology development and extension system to fill this void. CIAL methodology builds farmers' capacities in investigation and experimentation techniques with a focus on low external input production and natural resource management practices that help reduce production costs and negative environmental effects of conventional practices. Through group action, farmers minimize risks, broaden networks of communication, and adopt practices to conserve the natural environment while contributing to their own food security. The research revealed that CIAL efforts have been limited up to this point. It was found that CIAL efforts were dependant on the economic, natural and social resources available to them. Where there was insufficient land to produce quality seed or the social and economic expectations of the group members varied greatly, CIALs were less likely to have success in disseminating their seed varieties and improved NRM techniques to surrounding communities. |
