participatory characterization of genetic resources
Through participatory characterization with farmers, researchers are able to make the best selection of a given crop genotype. The researcher and the potential beneficiaries (mostly farmers) plant and manage the crops together and then characterize it according to some mutually agreed criteria. It is best when the crop is grown on the farmers field and managed using farmer practices.
Trust between researchers and farmer.
Interest in the farmers in what the researchers are doing.
Before initiating the project, it is important do conduct some survey so that one can get an idea of what the local community needs; the need should be expressed by the community. This guarantees the uptake and sustainability of new ideas and inteventions.