EFFECT OF THE SYSTEM OF RICE INTENSIFICATION (SRI) ON ...

Both the theoretical SRI and the one practiced by the target farmers seem to be able to increase the
soil C pool due to the applications of compost/GM. With the amounts applied by the target farmers
there is no increase in soil C but a steady state of inputs and outputs of C thus implying a
sustainable balance. However with the introduction of the 500.000 trees farmers could in theory
increase the C pool with 116 kg C ha -1 per year as the planting of trees would provide them with
high amounts of biomass. The introduction of trees would also allow the farmers to have enough
organic materials to e.g. convert all their land to SRI as their compost production at the moment is
very limited.
The fact that CEDAC will not be present for ever in the target area might indicate that farmers will
not conduct SRI as described by Stoop et al. (2002) or Sheehy et al. (2004) but more a mixture
between traditionally and SRI. This would also seem to be more sustainable as farmers have learned
by participatory doing and thus made their own experiences. Especially the fact that using only one
seedling brought higher yields than traditional seems likely that farmers would continue with this.
Water management does not seem an option at the moment without any proper irrigation facilities
in the area, but it might not be necessary considering the yield increases obtained using only one
seedling. It is given the target farmers and their neighbours will use parts of SRI. Given the large
roll on effect where farmers shared their experiences on SRI with in average 9 people would imply
that the concepts and ideas of SRI are spreading rather fast and will survive in the area. CEDAC has
then successfully implemented a sustainable long lasting project which will benefit farmers in many
years to come.
SRI has been through many controversial discussions about its potential in rural areas of the rice
growing world. It has often been criticised of its alternative ways. This study indicates that by
following only a few of the SRI concepts, farmers are able to increase their rice yields and SRI
could then be considered very appropriate for the poorest farmers groups with few resources.
In a world with a growing population and risks of food shortages, SRI can provide security for the
poorest groups and it should therefore receive more attention in the future regarding research
projects and recognition.
72