current
past
Project Context
The Mixteca Alta region, located on the borders of the Mexican states of Guerrero and Oaxaca, is predominantly inhabited by the Mixtec people and characterized by its mountainous terrain and subtropical dry winter climate (Kottek et al., 2006; Magaña, Amador, & Medina, 1999). Historically, the region has utilized agricultural terraces for over two millennia to conserve soil and produce food efficiently (Blomster, 1998; Kowalewski et al., 2009). However, contemporary challenges such as soil erosion, desertification, and ineffective agricultural programs have led to a food security crisis and significant youth emigration, threatening the region’s cultural heritage and demographic stability (Boege & Carranza, 2009; Bellow, 2004).
This project, undertaken in collaboration with the Spanish and Latin American Students Association (SLASA) of McGill University and the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), aims to enhance food security in the Mixteca Alta through the introduction of sustainable agricultural technologies and comprehensive environmental education. By integrating modern techniques with traditional practices, the project seeks to empower local communities, preserve cultural heritage, and promote long-term socio-economic development.
Role & Approach
My role encompassed several key responsibilities. I coordinated the collaboration between SLASA and INAH, and worked closely with local experts such as biologist Donato Ramirez to ensure the project's technical and cultural relevance. My role also involved obtaining funding, data collection and analysis, report writing, and presenting findings to both academic and local community stakeholders.
Conceptual Influences
The conceptual framework of this project was heavily influenced by agroecological principles and community-based development strategies. Agroecology emphasizes the integration of ecological principles into agricultural systems, promoting sustainability, biodiversity, and resilience against climate variability (Altieri et al., 2015). This approach aligns with the traditional practices of the Mixteca Alta, which have historically utilized terracing to conserve soil and optimize food production.
Moreover, the project was guided by the principles of participatory development, which prioritize the active involvement and empowerment of local communities in decision-making processes (Eakin, 2000). By incorporating environmental education and historical preservation into the project, the initiative sought to foster a sense of agency and cultural pride among the younger generation, ensuring the continuity of sustainable practices and the preservation of Mixtec heritage.
Methodology
The project employed a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative research techniques to address the multifaceted challenges faced by the Mixteca Alta communities. The methodology encompassed partnerships, farm visits, community workshops, farmer interviews, data collections and analysis, monitor & evaluation.
Impact & Takeaways
The introduction of the MIAF system resulted in improved soil conservation and diversified crop production, which in turn enhanced family incomes and food security. Farmers reported increased yields and greater resilience against environmental variability, validating the effectiveness of the agroforestry approach (Altieri et al., 2015). The image to the left demonstrates two stems. Stem on the left is from MIAF, stem on the right is from traditional system. Note the thickness and color.
The photo below illustrates the impact of our intervention on corn production. The corn stalk on the left was grown after the intervention, showing a much thicker and therefore more resilient structure. Additionally, the size of the corn itself increased significantly, highlighting the improvement in crop health and yield.
Location: Cuquila , Oaxaca, México ; Santo Domingo Tonaltepec, Oaxaca, México
Years: 2017, 2018