The integrated development of family farms based on the systems and community organization concepts

Abstract

A proposal of development for family farms should be based on many aspects, since their problems are wide and complex. Qur field experience was developed in two ways: community organization and diagnosis of the agrarian systems of production. The process of organization was delayed by discouragement, disbelief on public institutions and the concept that the University should be able to solve the problems in place of the own community. The end of this process ocurred with election of the Community Association of Guairacá, disputed by two candidates. After that, this Association tried to solve the main problems of the community, with the assistance of the project. The Association brought some social benefits where as, the diagnosis of the agrarian systems of production indicated that greater economic benefits could be earned, if few low cost solutions were implemented. This implementation and the election of the second board of directors which will consolidate the organization process, are decisive for the improvement of the quality of life in the family agriculture. There is a fear for the continuation of the process after the end of the project. The organization of the community remains fragile, so it is very difficult to solve their problems, especially the rami (Boehmeria nivea) commercialization and the pavement connection. There is a necessity of assistance from government institutions for the implementarion of changes in the systems existing nowadays, and to study new alternatives, like fruit growing and agroindustry. This would fit the region, for it's local characteristics and the possibility of a greater aggregation of value.