Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
Farming system analysis of the Hilly Purple Area, Sichuan Province.
Socio-economic facts of farmer communities in small agricultural catchments.
An extension of the LISEM model with a nutrient module, and calibration for
comparable areas.
A number of land use scenarios defined by different target groups all with their
own interests.
Cost analysis of the alternative land uses.
Several MSc students who were able to finish their thesis due to the EroChinut
project.
Land use alternatives were derived by taking into account: (i) the current land use,
(ii) farmers view on future land use, (iii) politicians view on future land use,
(iv) management optimization of the current land use and (v) biophysical optimization
of the area. The farmers identified a land use pattern for 2005 they think is profitable.
The policymakers, i.e., the county level policymakers, defined an expected land use
pattern in 2005 based on the economical effects for the county. Finally, the researchers
in the project defined a land use pattern with most expected effects on reduction of
discharge and soil and nutrient losses. The latter was split in two, one scenario used
the current land use as the starting point and introduced land management aspects
as the use of ridges, contour ploughing etc. The other scenario was a change of land
use based on slope classes. Here, cropland was allowed on slopes between 0°-15°,
on slopes between 15°-25° orchard was used and on the slopes >25° forest. The
alternatives were compared on their effect on water, soil and nutrient losses using
the extended, calibrated LISEM model, and on their effects on the regional econo-
mical situation. It proved that the biophysical optimization reduced discharge, soil
loss and nutrient losses most effectively. However, this scenario also reduced the
economical situation of the area considerable.
2) What are the outputs in terms of capacity-building and partnerships?
Capacity building
The overall project included the exchange of students between Wageningen
University and the Chinese partners.
The extended LISEM model (software), data and results were shared between
the partners.
Workshops with policymakers, farmers association and other key stakeholders
were held throughout the project. In these workshops, results from the project
were discussed, which enhanced learning by all parties.
Partnerships
An ongoing collaboration between ISWC, SUAS, SFI and ISSAS is established. This
has resulted in defining and conducting new projects (e.g., VEGSYS) and publishing
joint papers.
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