Exploring farmer knowledge of soil processes in organic coffee systems of Chiapas, Mexico

Abstract

More than any other Mexican state, Chiapas dedicates the most hectares to certified organic coffee production, providing a means of survival for indigenous Mayan peasants. Organic coffee producers are restricted from using agrochemicals such as synthetic nitrogen fertilizers, thus depend upon soil management techniques to provide nutrients to their coffee crop. This study assesses farmer understanding of soil fertility enhancement processes that organic coffee producers use as a basis for decision-making and experimentation. Such processes include knowledge of leaf litter decomposition, composting, soil biology, and biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). Research for this study was executed in March through August 1999. Information was collected through 31 semi-structured interviews conducted in three coffee-producing communities, Majosik, Tenejapa; Poconichim, Chenalhó; and Tziscao, Trinitaria. Transcribed texts were coded and analyzed for content to uncover patterns in the farmer's responses. Farmers' hybridized knowledge system included visible phenomena and information retained from organic training workshops. Farmers had an excellent understanding of the transformation from leaf material to soil and a good understanding of mineralization; however, the role of moisture influence, nutrient uptake, and soil organisms was not well understood. Nearly half of farmers thought that compost addition improved coffee plant growth. The significance of soil biology in decomposition was restricted to organisms farmers could see, especially earthworms. Soil microorganisms were rarely mentioned, and a lack of understanding of their role in soil processes was evident. Although more than half of interviewed farmers had seen root-nodules, farmer knowledge of legumes and the process of biological nitrogen fixation were limited. Results indicate that despite training attempts, farmers still possess knowledge gaps regarding phenomena that they cannot see, and future training should address unobservable ecosystem processes.