Targeting Plant Breeding Research for Traditional Farmer Intensification Needs - Triticale Experiences in Mexico

摘要

The concern of the paper is with agricultural intensification--increasing the net real value of output per unit of cultivated area--directed at traditional farmers, i.e., those who farm mostly with methods of previous generations. The successful experience of peasant farmers in Erongaricuaro, Mexico, with growing triticale (a high-yielding rye-wheat cereal) is described as (1) a surprising counter example to the expected acceptance pattern of technology transfer and (2) illustrating the importance of targeting plant breeding effects for small farmer needs. This is one rare case in which low-income, peasant farmers were early adopters of a technological innovation. Part of the reason for success lies in plant breeders and extension workers targeting the needs of traditional farmers which differ from those of commercial agriculturists.