Implementation of climate smart agriculture methods

The Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve Concession utilizes climate smart agriculture such as agro-forestry and Inga-alley cropping. Both of these methods combine agriculture with conservation of trees to create a sustainable land-use system, which increases carbon sequestration and crop yield. In addition, Inga-alley cropping uses species such as Inga edulis and Inga fueillei (leguminous, nitrogen-fixing trees) to improve soil health and reduce use of herbicides. With the preservation of permanent shade trees, and the planting of temporary shade trees and fruit trees, the cyclical production of the farm provides a sustainable yield that maximizes all products on the land. Planting Inga trees in rows supports a healthy yield of integrated fruit trees that are nurtured by the improved soil fertility provided from Inga species. This system reduces the amount of land needed for planting and provides valuable secondary uses like firewood, mulch and pest control.

The acquisition of the agro-forestry concession granted access to 936 acres for cacao-based agriculture within the Maya Mountain North Forest Reserve. Areas for planting were chosen using remote sensing to identify land that had already been used in the past. In addition a new set of roads/trails were built to provide access to the concession.

 

A clear idea of climate smart agricultural methods is needed before implementation. Training/workshops for farmers is vital to properly implement these methods.

Ya’axché has learned that the future success of the concession means that research into shade management and yields will need to be done to maintain good practices.