improved fallow systems in the luang prabang area, lao pdr - Afaci

Improved fallow systems in the Luang Prabang area, Lao PDR – in analysis based on farmer experiencesForewordThis thesis for a Master's degree in Physical Geography is the result of a field study in Laosduring the fall of 1999. Earlier in 1999 I had contacted Mr Carl Mossberg, Senior Forestry Adviserin the LSFP, to get some ideas on a study in Laos. His quick and positive reply to my inquiriesmade the study possible.The supervisor in Laos was Mr Paul Overgoor, Agricultural Research Adviser in the SCRP. Healso outlined the main objectives of the study and is a principal source of information. I owe him alot for all the time and effort he put into this work.The Swedish supervisor was Associated Professor Lars Franzen at the Department of PhysicalGeography, Göteborg University.Reviews of the draft versions of this report were made by PhD student Mira Ovuka and Dr BjornHolmer, both at the Department of Physical Geography. Their opinions on the material werehighly valuable when finalising the work.Working in the villages surrounding Luang Prabang and the Thong Khang research station wouldnot have been possible without the assistance of Mr Saysanna and Mr Prasith, both working inthe SCRP. The person who made the interviews possible at all was Mr Bounma at DoF. Hefunctioned as a translator between Lao and English and as a fantastic guide to the customs ofLao villages. Last. but not least, I would like to thank the farmers of the Luang Prabang area fortheir warmth, hospitality and willingness to spend their time on interviews.The Sida Minor Field Study programme financed the study.IMPROVED FALLOW SYSTEMS IN THE LUANG PRABANG AREA, LAO PDR - AN ANALYSIS BASED ON FARMEREXPERIENCES.20040940 iv