Field Diagnosis of Small Holder Agriculture -- Some Thai Experience.

In recent years in Thailand, prices of rice and other food commodities have been volatile, threatening food security. A review of fertilizer recommendations indicated that one recipe for all, “blanket” fertilizer recommendations were the norm. Discussion and interviews with farmers indicated that they were capable, curious, but unable to substantially change. A methodology was implemented to take advantage of farmer experience, skill, and curiosity to empower them to, not only improve fertilization, but to reduce other costs of production. The methodology included four components. 1) Field identification of soil series based solely on field observations. The soil series provided an index of soil organic carbon, soil exchange capacity, and soil physical properties, all of which, together with measured amounts of these soil variables, improved fertilizer prediction. Farmers used the knowledge of their soil series names to discuss and share experience. 2) A soil test kit was developed that enabled farmers to measure soil pH, soil nitrate/ammonium, and extractable soil P and K. 3) Fertilizer recommendations were developed using computer-based decision-aids (Phosphorus Decision Support System – PDSS for P and K status diagnosis and fertilizer prediction) and simulation models (DSSAT for N), and 4) Farmer empowerment which included people-centered development, interactive learning, and farmer networking. The methodology, known as the “tailor-made” fertilizer methodology lowered cost and increased productivity of maize, sugarcane and rice. In the case of rice, chemical fertilizer could be reduced by 60%, while increasing yield. Soil clinics were introduced and farmer leaders were identified to learn the methodology and train other farmers to test the soil and give precise fertilizer recommendations. The farmer networks provided improved management information as well as improved fertilizer practice. Five soil clinics have been established in 5 provinces. The methodology is being adapted in Laos, the Philippines, and West and Southern Africa.