.:: Lao Knowledge Base on Conservation Agriculture ::.
Since the 1990s, traditional farming systems in southern Xayabury province have changed drastically through extensive agricultural development based on cash crops such as maize, rice-bean (Vigna umbellata), peanuts, Job’s tears (Coix lacryma Jobi), sesame and black cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). This development is mainly the result of technology transfer from Thailand (inputs, heavy mechanisation and technical skills), along with increased local financial capacity and market accessibility. In response to Thai market demand and due to the low labour requirements of the crop, maize monocropping now dominates production in the area. Land preparation, based on ploughing steep slopes, has allowed maize cultivation across large upland fields. This development, along with land allocation and increasing population density, is leading to dwindling fallow periods. Despite very good soils and high potential for agricultural development, arable land can be quickly degraded, in which case negative social and economic impacts will follow. Read more: Systèmes de production au sud de Xayabury (document in french); Assessment of southern Xayabury (pwt); Initial assessment and CA technical offer in Southern Xayabury; health risk associated with pesticide use
