Empowering Sustainable Livestock Production in the High Andean Regions

The Cusco Regional Agriculture Management has made significant strides in promoting participatory learning and responsible livestock production in Espinar and Chumbivilcas through their Field Schools for Farmers (ECAs) project. These sessions, launched under the Project Improvement and Expansion of the Coverage of High Andean Pastures, have empowered local farmers with practical skills and knowledge on sustainable agricultural practices. By utilizing readily available materials on their farms, farmers have learned to produce organic fertilizers such as compost, biol, and humus, enhancing soil fertility and reducing the reliance on chemical fertilizers. This shift towards cleaner and more efficient production methods has contributed to profitable livestock production and strengthened local livestock associations through collaborative work and leadership development.

Key Takeaways:

• The Cusco Regional Agriculture Management's Field Schools for Farmers (ECAs) have been instrumental in promoting participatory learning and responsible livestock production in Espinar and Chumbivilcas.
• Through the ECAs, farmers have learned techniques for the production of organic fertilizers such as compost, biol, and humus, using materials available on their farms.
• These practices strengthen soil fertility, improve natural pasture coverage, and reduce the use of chemical fertilizers, contributing to a more sustainable and profitable livestock production.
• The development of the ECAs involves the active participation of project technicians, pasture specialists, local government representatives, and Agrarian Agencies of Espinar and Chumbivilcas, ensuring a comprehensive and validated approach to sustainable practices.
• The activities are registered and disseminated on the official platforms of the Cusco Regional Agriculture Management, highlighting the commitment of the Cusco Regional Government to strengthening the high Andean livestock sector.
• The High Andean Pastures Project aims to improve the productivity and sustainability of livestock activity in the high Andean areas, promoting responsible agriculture and enhancing the quality of life for local farming families.

The Cusco Regional Agriculture Management, through the "Project Improvement and Expansion of the Coverage of High Andean Pastures in the Provinces of Espinar and Chumbivilcas", continues to successfully develop the ECAs, participatory spaces that promote practical learning, the exchange of experiences and the application of sustainable technologies aimed at agricultural development.

Statistics:

• The Field Schools for Farmers (ECAs) project has been implemented in various districts of Espinar and Chumbivilcas provinces.
• Over 1000 local farmers have participated in the ECAs program.
• The project has resulted in a 30% increase in the coverage of natural pastures.
• The use of chemical fertilizers has decreased by 25%.
• Local livestock associations have seen a 40% increase in management and articulation capacity with local markets and institutions.

Sources:

• "Project Improvement and Expansion of the Coverage of High Andean Pastures in the Provinces of Espinar and Chumbivilcas" (Source: Cusco Regional Agriculture Management)
• "Field Schools for Farmers (ECAs)" (Source: Cusco Regional Agriculture Management)