Adaptation and utilization of contour hedgerows in the Philippine uplands: evidences from eight upland development projects
1999
Garcia, J.N.M. | Gerrits, R.V. | Cramb, R.A. (Philippines Univ. Los Banos, 4031 College, Laguna (Philippines). Farming Systems and Soil Resources Inst.)
Adaptation and utilization of contour hedgerow was studied through formal surveys of the technology adopters in eight upland development projects. Designed to improve soil productivity through the reduction of soil runoff and erosion, the technology involves several essential features including: a) establishment of hedgerow along the contour, b) close planting of plants within hedgerows, c) hedgerow interval a function of slope, d) use of leguminous plants as hedgerows, e) keeping hedgerows short, f) incorporating hedgerow trimmings into the soil, g) maintaining close distance between plants within hedgerows, and h) collecting farm residues at the base of the hedgerows. Generally, adaptations to the technology include: a) low hedgerow density which include wide alley width, single hedgerow, and wider row spacing and lower planting density within row, b) low trimming frequency, c) lack of or infrequent mulch, d) chance of hedgerow species, e) additional component or other use of hedgerow, and f) absence of crop rotation. Factors and farmers' concerns that affect adaptations include: a) reduced arable area, b) labor constraint in the establishment and maintaining the system, c) lack of planting materials, d) economic opportunities for hedgerows, e) preference to hedgerow characteristics, and f) suitability to existing farming system. The results suggest that farmers' technology adaptation should be encourage. However, it should be ensured that farmers understand the purpose and basic concepts of conservation farming technologies so that their adaptations improve the contribution of the technology to resource conservation
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