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'Organic Agriculture Systems' Project: Improving Farmers' Soil and Crop Health in the Colca Valley

March 25, 2024

The demand for food grown using organic farming practices has increased over the past 30 years due to perceptions of increased safety and nutritional quality of organic food, and fewer negative impacts on the environment as a result of natural vs. synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Farmers also generally receive price premiums for organic products.

Despite the many benefits, farmers struggle with certain factors such as meeting nutrient needs and controlling pests in organic systems, which discourages transition. In addition, the soils and water of the Colca River Valley can be contaminated with toxic heavy metals and metalloids, which can exacerbate pest problems, decrease crop yields, and negatively impact human health.

The project 'Building Soils, Communities and Profits with Organic Farming Systems' recognizes the challenges and needs of agricultural production in Arequipa and aims to develop locally adapted solutions to overcome these challenges and realize the many benefits of organic production systems starting with the Colca Valley. To kick off the project, the team initiating a soil sampling campaign at UNSA's International Center for Bioscience and Innovation (CIBCI) before heading into the Colca Valley to collect soils at local farms. The goal of this effort is to characterize important soil properties in this region and determine how they have been impacted by agricultural management practices and local mining activities. This will allow the team to identify strategies that can help local farmers rebuild their soils and improve the health of their crops.

At the same time, the team met with farmers and representatives of the Yanque Boards of Water Users and Mayors of Madrigal and Coporaque to gain additional insights into production challenges and traditional farming practices in Sibayo, Yanque, Madrigal and Coporaque. During these meetings the team reiterated their commitment to helping local farmers by providing them with reports summarizing the results of soil analyses from their farms, as well as tips on how to better manage fertility and pests. With these insights, the farmers will be better prepared to make the transition to organic production.