Baseline survey of participating villages and communities

From March 14 to 27 we conducted a baseline survey in our project villages and communities to assess and document existing bio-physical, socio-economic, institutional and cultural conditions of the area. We were supported by the Centre for Community Development Studies (CDS) of the Yunnan Academy of Social Sciences in conducting this important initial activity. Findings show that one third of the rural population cannot satisfy their household needs for food from the land they cultivate. Taking on part-time (low-paid) jobs outside the village is a common strategy to fill this need. Framers' biggest constraint to improving their farming systems is the lack of technical know-how, including government support in terms of technical advice on improved crop production, animal husbandry and tree crop management. Other limitations that we intend to address with the FCDSD project are: lack of market knowledge and access, no available micro-credit scheme, no or weak community organizations, and poor linkages and exchange with policy makers.