Phonesay District Agro-ecosystems Analysis

Transcription

1 LSUAFRP Field Report No 2004/05 Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute Draft Report on Phonesay District Agro-ecosystems Analysis Luang Prabang Province Land Management Component - Soils Survey and Land Classification Centre Lao Swedish Upland Agriculture and Forestry Research Programme August, 2004

2 Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry National Agriculture and Forestry Research Institute LSUAFRP Field Report No. 2004/05 Draft Report on Phonesay District Agro-ecosystems Analysis Luang Prabang Province Land Management Component - Soils Survey and Land Classification Centre August 2004 Lao-Swedish Upland Agriculture and Forestry Research Programme

3 Table of Contents 1 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND INTRODUCTION PARTICIPANTS IN PILOT AEA ACTIVITY AGRO-ECOSYSTEM ANALYSIS PROCESS OVERALL PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES OF AEA AEA PROCEDURES AND METHODOLOGY KEY OUTPUTS AEA PROCEDURES AEA IMPLEMENTATION STAGES AEA ANALYSIS TOOLS SYSTEM DEFINITION REQUIRED OUTPUTS FROM SYSTEM DEFINITION PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES DEFINED DEFINING THE BOUNDARIES OF THE SYSTEM GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PHONESAY DISTRICT DISTRICT CONTEXT DISTRICT SYSTEMS HIERARCHY SECONDARY DATA NEEDS BIO-PHYSICAL DATA SOCIO-ECONOMIC DATA AGRO-ECOLOGICAL ZONING REQUIRED OUTPUTS FROM ZONING ZONING TOOLS USED Map Overlay Techniques Description of Secondary Data Used ZONING PROCEDURES Preliminary District AE Zones Delineated Draft Zone Descriptions Key Issues Emerging from Zoning PREPARATION FOR FIELDWORK Additional Information Needs Follow-up on Key Issues FIELDWORK REQUIRED OUTPUTS FROM FIELDWORK LOGISTICS, TEAM FORMATION AND OPERATION FIELD TOOLS USED Focus Groups Transect Walks Key Informants Problem Census Market Studies INFORMATION ACQUIRED FROM FIELD WORK KEY ISSUES EMERGING FROM FIELDWORK SYSTEMS ANALYSIS REQUIRED OUTPUTS FROM SYSTEMS ANALYSIS ANALYSIS TOOLS USED DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF DISTRICT SYSTEM Phonesay District Agro-ecological Zone Map Phonesay District Agro-ecosystems Transect Table Key Issues and Important Problems Application of Available Farming System Technologies Proposed Solutions DISTRICT AGRO-ECOLOGICAL ZONE DESCRIPTIONS...36

4 7.1 ZONE 1- LOWER ELEVATION, POTENTIALLY PRODUCTIVE UPLAND AGRO-ECOSYSTEM Spatial Analysis Time Analysis Flow Analysis Zone 1 System Properties Analysis Zone 1 Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions ZONE 2 - NATIONAL BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION BUFFER ZONE AGRO- ECOSYSTEM Spatial Analysis Time Analysis Flow Analysis Zone 2 Systems Properties Analysis Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions ZONE 3 - FOREST PROTECTION AND SUSTAINABLE USE AGRO-ECOSYSTEM Spatial Analysis Time Analysis Flow Analysis Zone 3 System Property Analysis Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions ZONE 4 - MOUNTAINOUS, RECURRING SUB-WATERSHED AGRO-ECOSYSTEM Spatial Analysis Time Analysis Flow Analysis Zone 4 System Properties Analysis Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions ZONE 5 - HIGH ELEVATION PLATEAU, ROLLING GRASSLAND & MULTIPLE USE AGRO- ECOSYSTEM Spatial Analysis Time Analysis Flow Analysis Zone 5 System Properties Analysis Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions District Agro-ecological Zone Innovation Assessments CONCLUSIONS AND LESSONS LEARNED FURTHER WORK REQUIRED...72 Appendix 1: Participants in AEA Pilot Exercise...71 Appendix 2: Poverty Alleviation Priority Villages Phonesay District...72 Appendix 3: List of Phonesay District Development Area Maps...73

5 1 Introduction and Background 1.1 Introduction An objective for land management research as described in the Lao Swedish Upland Agriculture and Forestry Research Program (LSUAFRP) document is: current land use systems are described and appropriate land use zones in the uplands are identified, demarcated and mapped. A component activity of this objective is develop agro-ecological and forest land use zoning. A pilot agro-ecosystem analysis (AEA) in Phonesay District of Luang Prabang Province was undertaken in April and May 2004 to accomplish these objectives. A comprehensive report was prepared which explains the procedures and methods and the results of two AEAs conducted, one of the Phonesay District agro-ecosystem and one of the Long Nam Pa Development Area agro-ecosystem. This second document reports on the results and achievements of the AEA of the District agro-ecosystem. A third document reports on the results and achievements of the AEA of the Long Nam Pa Development Area agro-ecosystem. A fourth document, a draft manual on procedures and methods for AEA, derived from the pilot activity in Phonesay District, has been prepared for further testing in Na Mo District. This report begins by explaining the purpose and objective of the district AEA and then continues with a description of the procedures followed, systems definition, agroecological zoning, system analysis, and finally, descriptions of each of the five agroecological zones defined in the District. 1.2 Participants in Pilot AEA Activity A multi-disciplinary team was formed representing the various research components of the LSUAFRP, NAFES, the Northern Regional Agriculture and Forestry Research Centre, the Phonesay District Administration, and the Phonesay DAFO. During the field work the central team was complimented with 12 district staff members who are responsible for development programs within the development zones (boriwen) and the village development groups (kum ban patana). A list of participants is presented in Appendix Agro-ecosystem Analysis Process The AEA was conducted in five phases: Phase Preparation Workshop 1 Workshop 2 Main Activities Work planning, budgeting, selecting participants, identifying sources of secondary data, producing district GIS maps. Staff orientation, AEA objectives, systems definition Agro-ecological Zoning (AEZ), secondary data collation for AEZs, 1

6 Field Work Workshop 3 initial AEZ characterisation, identifying additional data required in the field Acquiring additional data, verifying system boundaries, identifying key issues and problems in each AEZ, undertaking special studies to contribute to the final analysis Final analysis and AEZ characterisation, system properties analysis, collation and prioritisation of key issues and problems for each AEZ, innovation assessment, final discussions and results. 1.4 Overall Purpose and Objectives of AEA The overall objectives of an agro-ecosystem analysis of any system are as follows. Objective 1: To identify, delineate and characterise different agro-ecological zones within a given land area. Objective 2: To obtain an improved understanding of agricultural systems in these zones and their key characteristics. Objective 3: To identifying key issues related to the performance of the entire system and it s agro-ecological zones Objective 4: To identify agricultural research and extension priorities for the system Objective 5: To help plan programs, projects and development activities for the system. 2 AEA Procedures and Methodology Agro-Ecosystems Analysis (AEA) is a methodology for zoning and analyzing agricultural systems in order to plan and prioritize research and development activities in the fields of agriculture and natural resource management. 2.1 Key Outputs AEA provides a range of useful outputs, the most important of which include: The delineation and description (bio-physical and socio-economic) of distinct agro-ecological zones. An improved, holistic understanding of the major livelihood systems of each zone. A prioritized list of important problems and opportunities for each zone. A prioritized set of research and development interventions to solve the problems. Enhanced interdisciplinary cooperation and improved research and extension linkages. 2.2 AEA Procedures AEA is based on the concepts of systems, hierarchies, agro-ecosystem zones, and the system properties of productivity, stability, sustainability and equitability. Ideally, 2

7 AEA is conducted by a multi-disciplinary group whose joint experience and technical knowledge cover all disciplines relevant to the study. The step-by-step procedure is shown in Figure 1 and further explanation is provided in Table 1. Figure 1. Procedure for Agro-Ecosystems Analysis SYSTEM DEFINITION PURPOSE & OBJECTIVES BOUNDARIES & HIERARCHY SPACE TIME SYSTEMS ANALYSIS SYSTEM PROPERTIES FLOW DECISIONS IDENTIFICATION OF DEVELOPMENT OPTIONS KEY QUESTIONS PRIORITISE IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAM DESIGN Table 1: Brief Explanation of AEA Procedures Stage Systems Definition System Analysis Identification of Description Agree on the purpose and objectives of the analysis. Precisely define the system(s) to be studied Clearly identify and delineate the system s boundaries (physical, social, administrative, etc.). Describe its position in the hierarchy of other systems. Identify and describe the major agro-ecological zones (agro-ecosystems) within the system and the important interactions among them. Analyse each zone in regard to: 1. Space spatial diversity, sub-systems and key relationships 2. Time long-term (trends) and short-term (cyclical) changes in the system over time. 3. Flow the movement of materials, money, information, etc. both within and into and out of the system. 4. Decisions the decision making process and choices/options for key decision makers (farmers, government, projects, etc.) Identify the key attributes of the system that contribute either positively and negatively to the productivity, stability, equitability and sustainability of each agro-ecosystem. Identify the key processes determining the overall performance of each agroecosystem. As an understanding of the system is developed, a number of key issues, 3

8 Stage development options Research Design and Implementation Description problems and development opportunities begin to emerge. These are further developed and elaborated into hypotheses or key questions for further analysis. System properties analysis is used to identify those attributes of each agroecosystem that impact positively and negatively on productivity, stability, equitability and sustainability. The results of this are used to further develop the key questions. The key questions are interfaced with available technologies to identify appropriate solutions or development options for each question. Proposed development options are assessed using innovation assessment techniques. This provides a rating for each which are then used to set development priorities. High priority development options will include proposals for research, extension and management (district planning) interventions. These are used by the appropriate agency (NAFRI, NAFES or District Authority) to develop appropriate implementation plans. Once these activities have been implemented, their results should be re-assessed in the context of AEA and any new lessons used to modify plans. 2.3 AEA Implementation Stages AEA proceeds through a series of stages involving interdisciplinary workshop analysis sessions interspersed with sub-group tasks and fieldwork. These stages are as follows: Stage Explanation 1 Planning and preparation 2 Secondary data collation and organisation. 3 Preliminary analysis 4 Fieldwork in the system of study 5 Systems analysis 6 Reporting and write-up 7 Use of the outputs Further explanation of these stages are provided in the AEA Draft Manual 2.4 AEA Analysis Tools AEA uses a variety of tools to assist with the analysis of space, time, flow and decision-making. Many are similar to PRA tools and all emphasize simplicity, participation and objectivity. The major tools are listed below and their use is illustrated in the analysis and system description sections of this report. These tools are further explained in the AEA Draft Manual. 4

9 Tool Explanation 1 Transect diagrams (space analysis tool) 2 Historical Profiles (time analysis tool) 3 Seasonal Calendars (time analysis tool) 4 Flow diagrams (flow analysis tool) 5 Venn diagrams (decision analysis tool) 6 Problem-cause diagrams (decision analysis tool) 7 System properties tables (system properties analysis tool 8 Pairwise ranking (prioritization tool) 9 Impact assessments 10 Innovation assessment (prioritization tool) 3 System Definition Systems definition involved identification of the District agro-ecosystem, system boundaries, and system heirarchies. 3.1 Required Outputs from System Definition The outputs required from system definition were as follows: Developing a purpose statement and agreeing on AEA objectives Defining the boundaries of the system to be analysed Identification and portrayal of system hierachies above and below the district and boriwen ecosystems (using hierachy descriptions and diagrams) Deciding on secondary data needs to undertake the agro-ecosystem analysis These outputs were achieved using plenary discussions and brain-storming sessions among workshops participants 3.2 Purpose and Objectives Defined Two key elements were considered in determining the purpose and objectives: 1. The improvement of land use planning and management practices at district level 2. The alleviation of poverty in villages most affected by poverty Purpose Objectives To use AEA and AEZ methodologies to contribute to policy development, planning and implementation related to improved land management practices, and poverty alleviation in upland areas of Lao PDR. To develop a procedure that will collate and consolidate various LSUAFRP and other information to assist the agro-ecosystem analysis activity To undertake agro-ecological zoning (AEZ) in Phonesay District To use AEA to characterise the current agro-ecosystems in Phonesay District To create a procedure that will be compatible with district level planning systems, and that will assist District Authorities with more objective planning of rural development programs focusing on poverty alleviation 5

10 To identify key research questions and to develop proposals and guidelines that will assist future research and extension To encourage and create research and extension co-operation at district and provincial levels. 3.3 Defining the Boundaries of the System It was determined that the boundary of the agro-ecosystem for study was the Phonesay District administrative boundary. The primary considerations in making this decision were: 1. To ensure that the AEA focused at the level most appropriate for district planning 2. To ensuring that the district administration and planning representatives played a key role in determining the level at which the AEA should be undertaken. 3.4 General Description of Phonesay District Phonesay District is located in the northern region of Lao PDR and is characterised by rugged terrain interspersed with narrow valleys along rivers and streams. It is estimated that 80 + % of District area is mountainous which limits the area of land available for paddy land development, and dictates that upland rain fed farming systems dominates the landscape. The total area of paddy land is approximately 190 hectares. At higher altitudes there are isolated pockets of elevated rolling plateaus which support both natural forest and grasslands, and are used by highland villagers to raise cattle. The District has rather limited areas of natural forest remaining, the most important and least disturbed being the south-western extremity of the Nam Et- Phou Loei National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA) and two adjacent areas, bordered by the Nam Khan River. These areas still have fairly rich forest stands and support a range of protected wildlife species. They are also important non-timber forest production areas and livelihood contributors for villagers. Other areas in the District were declared as Provincial Conservation and Provincial Protection Forests in 1996, however the status of these requires a review because they have been degraded by upland cultivation. The District has a total population of 24,237, and is inhabited by the three main ethnic groupings; Khamu (62.50 % of total households), Hmong (24.50 % of total households) and ethnic Lao (13.00 % of total households). Generally the Lao occupy the river-side valleys, the Khamu the valleys and the hill slopes, and the Hmong the higher elevated country. These distinctions are however quite rapidly changing due to both voluntary migration and planned re-location from the more mountainous and isolated areas to the lower-lying areas. There are presently many villages of mixed ethnicity. 6

11 3.5 District Context The District has a total area of approximately 246,104 hectares and is bounded by Luang Prabang District to the west, Pak Xeng (LPB) and Viengkham District (Houa Phanh Province) to the north, Phoukood District (Xieng Khuang Province) to the east, and Phoukhoun District (Xieng Khuang Province), and Xieng Ngeun District (LPB Province) to the south. There are four main river systems in the District, the Nam Pa, flowing west, the Nam Ter, flowing north east, the Nam Bak in the south, and the Nam Khan which bounds the District to the east. The Nam Khan is an important communication and transport system to Xieng Ngeun District and Luang Prabang. The District has a good standard gravel all-weather road reaching the District Headquarters, 46 Km from the main Luang Prabang road. It continues west to the area near Sop Chia village. Minor access roads extend to Phonthong (Nam Ter) and Sob Hout near the Nam Khan river. The access track network is being expanded, and presently approximately 16 villages have access to a road or an access track. Phonesay is one of the 10 poorest districts in the country. Of the 56 registered villages today, only five villagers are in the low poverty bracket, 10 are less poor (medium poverty) and 41 villages or 73% are classed in the severe poverty bracket. Opium addiction is common, there being 876 addicts in 53 of the 56 villages. Of the total, 674 are ethnic Khamu and 198 are ethnic Hmong. Seventeen villages have permanent clean water supplies, there are approximately 31 lower level schools, often inadequately staffed by teachers, one hospital at Phonesay, and eight permanent health centres. 3.6 District Systems Hierarchy LUANG PRABANG PROVINCE PHONESAY DISTRICT River-side flats and lowland paddy areas Upland annual rain-fed cropping areas Highland plateau and grassland areas Mountainous mixed forest areas Paddy rice Vegetables Field crops Teak planting Fish Ponds Fruit trees NTFP gathering Animal raising Upland rice Field crops Teak planting Fish Ponds Fruit trees NTFP gathering Animal raising Upland rice Cattle grazing Animal raising Field crops Vegetables Fruit trees NTFP gathering Conservation forest Shifting cultivation (upland rice, field crops) Livestock ranging Timber gathering NTFP gathering Wildlife hunting 7

12 3.7 Secondary Data Needs Agro-ecosystem analysis is largely dependent on the collation and analysis of secondary information. In the Lao PDR substantial secondary data is available at provincial, district, and village levels, including bio-physical, socio-economic, digital spatial data and numeric data. Prior to the first workshop, the types and sources of data that would be needed were considered and identified. An initial list using various headings and categories was compiled and prepared for each of the units that would be involved in the AEA. Responsibilities for data collation were identified. Examples are provided below. Table 2: Information and Data Sources Prepared for Workshop No. 1 Type of Information Information Source Format in which Data Available Format in which Data Required Socio-economic LSUAFRP Word reports Market flow diagrams Poverty World Food LECS 2 District Poverty Program; District (Expenditure & maps Authorities; PPA Consumption Excel or Access Survey 2) files Land Management and Soils Demographic Information Land Use and Forest Cover Forest Systems, Agroforestry & NTFPs Farming Systems Climatic Information LSUAFRP; NAFRI GIS Unit; Soils Survey Centre National Statistics Centre (NSC); District Authorities Forest Inventory & Planning Division (FIPD) Research Centres; LSUAFRP; NTFP Projects Research Centres; LSUAFRP Met and Hydro. Dept (MHD); NAFRI Research Division Digital ESRI format; maps Word Reports; Excel spread sheets Digital ESRI format; maps Word reports Word reports Annual statistics Digital ESRI format Excel tables; District village relocation plans Digital ESRI format; A3 and A4 size maps Tables; trialed technologies; Tables; on-shelf technologies; recommendation domains; Livelihood calendars Graphs; tables; climatic maps Group or Individuals Responsible S-E Unit S-E Unit GIS Unit; SSLCC Land Management Component; District Authorities Land Management; FIPD LSUAFRP; Forestry Research Component LSUAFRP; Farming Systems Component Met and Hydro. Dept (MHD); NAFRI Research Division These various types of information were presented at the first workshop and discussed by multi-disciplinary groups broadly comprised of persons responsible for the following five areas of responsibility: technology development, technology transfer, area characterisation, service provision, and program policy and planning. The data sheets were examined by the working groups and the data needs were refined in order that follow-up action could be undertaken to secure the information required for the Second Workshop. This was summarised into a revised list of data, data sources and data formats required and distributed to the AEA participants for 8

13 follow-up. Responsibilities and timeframes for acquiring the data were outlined and presented in the following format: Type of Information Information Source Guiding Comments Data Available (Yes - No) Format in which data Available Format in which data is required & Responsibility The following is a summary of data that was gathered. 3.8 Bio-physical Data Topographic Climatic Water Resources Geology and Soils Communications Infrastructure Land Use & District and Development Area administration boundaries; village boundaries (boriwen only); village locations (before 1999; 2004) Watershed classification Land form; elevation; land slopes Annual rainfall and distribution Annual temperature and distribution Rivers and stream locations Weirs and irrigation benefit areas Geological series and distribution Soil types and distribution Soil properties and production potential Roads and tracks Market locations Forest management categories and zones Land use zoning: forest areas, agricultural areas, grazing, cash crops, and urban areas Past land use and present land use Land suitability Optimum land use 3.9 Socio-economic Data Agriculture Agro- Forestry Ethnicity Markets Poverty Opium Annual crops and seasonal cropping calendars; labour inputs; economic inputs; commercial tree crops, livestock and grazing, fish NTFP types and collection Traditional and cultural calendars Market locations and commodities Poverty ranking and distribution (district and development area) Opium addiction and distribution (district and development area) 9

14 The following bio-physical and socio-economic maps were produced in digital format in readiness for agro-ecological zoning. District Bio-physical Maps Context map (showing surrounding Districts); Boundary; Village point (before 1999), Village point (2004); Rivers and streams; Roads and tracks; Mean annual rainfall; Mean annual temperature; Watershed classification; Slope categories ; Elevation categories ; Soils ; Geology ; Irrigation areas; Land Use and Forest Management ; Land use planning (forest & agriculture); Past land use (1992) and (2000); Land suitability; Optimum land use Socio-economic Maps District poverty status (2004) Thematic Sketch Maps (District coverage) Health Centres Permanent Clean water Schools Several of the types of maps printed from the NAFRI GIS data bases are illustrated below. 10

15 Examples of Biophysical Maps Used for Agro-ecological Zoning and Agro-systems Analysis Phonesay District Elevation Map Phonesay District Watershed Classification Map Phonesay District Slope Map Phonesay District Soil Map Phonesay District Land Use Map (2000) Phonesay District Land Use and Forest Management Map 11

16 Phonesay District Land Suitability Map Phonesay District Optimum Land Use Map Phonesay District Rivers -Streams Map Phonesay District Road Map 12

17 Phonesay District River Systems Phonesay District Road and Access Track Network Phonesay Village Point Map (1999) 13

18 4 Agro-Ecological Zoning 4.1 Required Outputs from Zoning The following outputs were required from District zoning: 1 Draft zonation of the agro-ecosystems in Phonsay District. 2 An initial description of agro-ecosystems in Phonsay District 3 An initial understanding of the major farming systems of each agro-ecological zone in the district 4 An initial list of key agricultural problems and development opportunities for each zone in the district 4.2 Zoning Tools Used The zoning tools used to facilitate boriwen agro-ecological zoning were map overlay techniques and various map sets produced from data sets held in the NAFRI GIS Unit data base Map Overlay Techniques Map overlay techniques, involving the sequential overlay of all available maps, were used to identify distinct zones with fairly homogenous biophysical and socioeconomic conditions. This was done using an overhead projector with maps of the same scale printed to fit on A4 transparencies. The maps were overlaid sequentially to elicit ideas and comments from participants about likely zones and zone boundaries. The map overlay technique used A4 maps of watershed classification, elevation, slope, soils, geology, climate (temperature and rainfall), current land use, forest cover, land suitability, optimum land use, rivers, communications, administrative boundaries, village locations, population density, poverty, etc. Some of these, particularly those for socio-economic parameters were thematic maps using village point locations as village boundary data were not available. System context maps showing areas outside but adjacent to the system of study were also produced for important parameters such as watershed classification, topography, forest cover and land use. These were used to explore issues regarding those agroecological zones that extended outside the boundary of the district. They helped to resolve land form and land cover questions and were considered extremely valuable Description of Secondary Data Used The following map sets produced from digitized spatial databases held at NAFRI were used for zoning. 14

19 A3 Size Maps: Digitised maps of the District showing system boundaries, roads, rivers (watersheds), village points, village poverty (sketch maps), watershed classification, elevation, slope, soils, geology, land use planning and forest zoning, climate (temperature and rainfall), land use, forest cover, (1992 and 2000), and land suitability/optimum land use maps. A3 System Context Maps: Digitised maps including areas outside but adjacent to the district, including watershed classification, topography, forest cover and land use. A4 Size Maps: Digitised maps of the district, including; system boundaries, roads, rivers (watersheds), village points, village poverty (sketch maps), district "context" (district and surrounding areas), watershed classification, elevation, slope, soils, geology, land use planning and forest zoning, climate (temperature and rainfall), current land use, forest cover, (1992 and 2000), and land suitability/optimum land use maps. Transparency Maps: A4 size overhead transparencies of all of the types of maps listed above for use on the overhead projector during brainstorming sessions. In addition to the spatial data, numeric attribute data sets on the socio-economic parameters of poverty, health, education, and village water (dis-aggregated to the village level) were used to produce thematic maps for these factors from data sets held by the district planning authorities in hardcopy format. Secondary data were sourced from the National Census (2000), the Agricultural Census (1998/99) which are being used for producing other thematic maps on population, ethnicity and agriculture. 4.3 Zoning Procedures The zoning activity was facilitated by a "zoning facilitator" using the overhead maps. The larger A3 size maps were posted on display boards for consultation and clarification in the brainstorming sessions. The A4 size overhead transparency maps were used on the overhead projector to project large images of the maps onto an overhead screen. This facilitated the active involvement of all participants in the zoning process. A variety of maps of various biophysical and socio-economic parameters were displayed sequentially on an overhead projector. A transparent district boundary map was overlaid on each of the maps in turn from which impressions were formed by participants on possible agro-ecoecological zone boundaries. As possible zones were identified, they were drafted onto a transparency which was overlaid once more with all the maps to check for accuracy and to refine the zone boundaries. These initial boundaries were further clarified using a number of iterations of map overlays and open discussions until a concensus was reached, following which the zone boundaries were drawn onto the transparent district boundary map. The larger A3 size maps were consulted from time to time to verify bio-physical information and to help verify agro-ecological zone boundaries. During the process of agro-ecological zoning, poster paper was used for recording key issues that arose for follow up during field work. 15

20 4.3.1 Preliminary District AE Zones Delineated The following preliminary agro-ecological zones delineated in Phonesay District are depicted on Map 1. Zone 1: Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agro-ecosystem Zone 2: National biodiversity conservation area and buffer zone agroecosystem Zone 3: Forest protection and sustainable use agro-ecosystem Zone 4: Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agro-ecosystem Zone 5: High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agro-ecosystem Map 1: Preliminary District Agro-ecological Zones Delineated Draft Zone Descriptions Initial description of the zones was undertaken during Workshop 2 using a variety of tools including: Transect tables Time lines (historical profiles) Seasonal calendars Flow diagrams Venn diagrams These zone descriptions required further elaboration using additional data that would be collected in the field by the workshop participants. The draft zone descriptions are not presented at this point in the report. Full descriptions, incorporating the initial information from workshop group work and the information from field work, are presented in Section 7 titled: District Agro-ecological Zone Descriptions". 16

21 4.3.3 Key Issues Emerging from Zoning During the process of agro-ecosystem zoning key issues regarding the performance of the zones started to emerge. For example, various Provincial Conservation Forests delineated in 1996 within the district boundary were found to be located in the "mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agro-ecosystem" and the "high elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agro-ecosystem", both of which are rather heavily populated and are characterised by upland and highland agricultural production systems. Further work was required in the field to elaborate these key issues more accurately. Table 3 provides a summary of the key issues and development opportunities identified for the district agro-ecosystem during initial zoning Table 3: Key Issues and Opportunities Identified from Initial Agro-ecosystem Zoning of the District Agroecosystem Zone Key Issues Development Opportunities Villagers still do substantial shifting Improve upland farming systems, cultivation while there is potential to incorporating conservation measures improve farming systems Expansion of paddy areas Areas with irrigation potential have not Construction of small weirs to increase been developed and irrigation irrigated production areas infrastructure needs expanding Introduce vaccination programs Improvement of cattle breeds and control of cattle disease epidemics Education levels in villages is low; only to level 5 Access tracks to and between villages are inadequate Seasonal epidemics, ie, malaria, dysentry Zone 1: Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agro-ecosystem Zone 2: National biodiversity conservation area and buffer zone agroecosystem Zone 3: Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem Zone 4: Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed Are there needs for a buffer zone or protection zone in the forest areas west of the Nam Et - Phou Loi NBCA? The proposed route of the road from the Nam Ter area passes through the NBCA, and although providing communication and transportation benefits, would result in various negative impacts on the NBCA resources. Is there an alternate route for the road? Population growth in villages adjacent to NBCA (greater impact o resources) The adjacent villages of Viengthong, Buakkham and perhaps Hat Jong gather NTFPs and hunt wildlife in the NBCA Access roads to the area will have both negative and positive results. Is boat communication and transportation using the Nam Khan River a viable alternative? Clean water, schooling and health services are inadequate, particularly in Khamu villages Is the Provincial Conservation Area located in the centre of the zone (near the 17 Eco-tourism potential in the NBCA via the Nam Khan River Investigation of need for buffer zone to the west of the NBCA to protect NBCA natural resources, involving villages that currently encroach on the NBCA Development of comprehensive Natural Resources Management Agreements with adjacent villages Eco-tourism potential in a Protected Forest Area using the Nam Khan River for transportation Sustainable harvesting of NTFPs and non-banned wildlife Road connection to Don Kham Convene discussions with the Provincial Forestry Office to discuss

22 Zone Key Issues Development Opportunities agro-ecosystem District Centre) an appropriate land classification? What is the status of the Provincial Protection Forest located in the north of this zone adjacent to the northern boundary between Phonesay and Pak Xeng Districts? Is this Protection Forest category consistent with the category in Pak Xeng District? Roads, small village hydro dams, and relocation of villagers to riverside locations are causing depletion of fish species and fish populations in the Nam Pa River NTFP collection, marketing structures may be causing unfavourable prices for villagers selling NTFPs to concessionaires the criteria and procedures used to undertake the delineation of Provincial Conservation Forests and Provincial Protection Forests in Phonesay District in 1996 Consider the re-delineation of the Provincial Forests based on the current land use situation and village livelihood systems within the agroecological zones. Consider the opportunities for delineation of alternate Protection Zone 5: High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Inadequate clean domestic water for villages Unreliable water for livestock Access roads do not reach villages in the zone except for a dry season track to Lom Yom Yai village. All households are in the severe poverty category A Provincial Conservation Forest, declared in 1996 covers the whole of this zone, (although it is clearly a village grazing and production area) There are negative social and land use impacts resulting from re-locating villagers from this zone to river-side locations, eg, Huay Man and Huay Maha; All households are in the severe poverty category. Improved large livestock production Survey to investigate the potential to improve domestic and livestock water availability (deep bores; better pondage of water) Eco-tourism potential (because it is an elevated area with an ethnic Hmong population ) Organic vegetables and maize The sustainable harvesting of NTFPs has potential An assessment of "population carrying capacity" of the area to assist planning development activities. Extending access tracks to four villages Review of the status of the Provincial Conservation Forest 4.4 Preparation for Fieldwork Additional or missing data needs were identified during the working group sessions when the secondary data list was examined by the five multi-disciplinary groups, and during the preliminary agro-ecological zoning plenary session Additional Information Needs The additional data required to complete the description of each zone were documented prior to the field work being undertaken. These data needs are summarised in Table 4. Table 4: Additional Information Needs Required from Field Work Zone Zone 1: Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agro-ecosystem Additional Data Required The boundaries of this zone are still not properly defined; further consideration is needed when in the field Diversity of NTFPs, location and NTFPs marketed, (in the areas adjacent to Sop Chia market) 18

23 Zone Zone 2: National biodiversity conservation area and buffer zone agroecosystem Zone 3: Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem Zone 4: Mountainous, recurring subwatershed agroecosystem Zone 5: High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Additional Data Required Wildlife and fishing availability and exploitation Which villagers (and populations) access the NBCA from Zone 1, and what impacts is this having, ie, on NTFPs, wildlife and fish. Are there logging impacts in the NBCA? The areas of the NBCA that are being affected by shifting cultivators from Zone 1 What are the plans for the road that has been mooted to link Phonesay District with Houa Phanh. Is there an alternate route for the road? Follow-up on information on forestry and agriculture relationships in the NBCA area; shifting cultivation etc. Possible location of the proposed buffer or protection zone for the NBCA Flow diagrams for NBCA impacts and management Demographic information on villages impacting on the forests in the zone Information on farming system and labour inputs Information on forest and agriculture relationships Exploitation and marketing of NTFPs to outside locations Information on potential for eco-tourism in the zone using the Nam Khan River for access History - Time Line for Zone 3 villages Infrastructure and services information Prepare a History or Time Line for the zone Village population data; extract and summarise data for the zone Description of the farming systems of the zone. The seasonal calendar is very basic; collect additional information to improve it. Acquire additional information on NTFP locations, species, marketing and prices Income data Number of villages with access roads No of Health Care Centres Cultural calendar for the various ethnic groups Credit systems that exist in zone 4 villages Additional NTFP market information from Sop Chia market centre Complete sample transects in two locations to provide indicative information on agroecological sub-systems or recommendation domains at varying altitudes and slopes within the zone Complete History - Time Line Gather information on re-location and merging of villages and impacts on host villages in lower-lying river side locations More information on marketing of vegetables from Zone Follow-up on Key Issues The key issues for each agro-ecological zone, as listed in Table 2, were recorded so that the groups responsible for each zone had references for follow-up during field activity in the District. The task in the field was to investigate the key issues that arose from zoning during the second workshop, ie,: verify that the issue actually existed Investigate the parameters of the issues verified and gather additional information to clarify the nature of the issues Document the additional information that would be useful in the final analysis during the third workshop 19

24 5 Fieldwork 5.1 Required Outputs from Fieldwork The outputs required from field work were: 1 Orientation and training on AEA procedures for District staff responsible for rural development activities at the boriwen and village development group (kum ban patana) levels 2 The acquisition of additional and more concise secondary information to assist with the final analysis during the 3rd AEA workshop, including; - market information, - agricultural production - villager perceptions of rural development problems and needs, - up-to-date population data, - village poverty status and poverty related problems - Provincial Protected Areas status within the District - Infrastructure and communications 4 A more detailed description of agro-ecosystems in Phonsay District 3 A clearer definition of the boundaries of the AEZs for the District 5 A more detailed understanding of the major farming systems of each agro-ecological zone in the District 6 A more complete list of key development and agricultural problems and development opportunities for each zone in the District 7 A description of the agro-ecological sub-systems, or recommendation domains, that exist within the mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agro-ecosystem (Zone 4) 9 A clearer understanding of "system properties" and preparation of information to assist system property analysis during the 3rd workshop 5.2 Logistics, Team Formation and Operation The AEA field team was based at Phonesay District and accommodated at the District Government Guesthouse during field activities. Multi-disciplinary teams of staff were formed comprising centrally based staff at NAFRI and 12 district staff members responsible for rural development activities in each of the district boriwen (development areas) and village development groups (kum ban patana). The district staff provided more depth and local knowledge to the work teams. The teams undertook focus group discussions and field excursions to gather additional data for each of the five district and two boriwen agro-ecological zones Group discussions for data gathering were undertaken at the district centre and field excursions were made to various field locations to the extent that the weather and access road conditions would allow. A list of the district staff members involved in the AEA, and their areas of responsibility, is presented as Appendix 6. These field visits focused on the mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem (District Zone 4 and Development Area Zone 2) and the high elevation 20

25 plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agro-ecosystem (District Zone 5 and Development Area Zone 1). 5.3 Field Tools Used During the field activity the teams made use of various AEA tools, such as focus groups (staff), key informants (villagers), transect walks (staff and villagers), problem census meetings (staff and villagers) and supplementary market studies (staff and villagers). These AEA tools are described below Focus Groups Four focus groups were formed with responsibilities for the five District and the two Boriwen agro-ecological zones: Group District Agro-ecological Zones Boriwen Agro-ecological Zones 1 Zone 1: Lower elevation, potentially productive Not applicable upland agro-ecosystem 2 Zone 2: National biodiversity conservation area and buffer zone agro-ecosystem Zone 3: Forest protection and sustainable use Not applicable Not applicable agro-ecosystem 3 Zone 4: Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agro-ecosystem Zone 2: Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agro- ecosystem 4 Zone 5: High elevation plateau, rolling grassland and multiple use agro-ecosystem Zone 1: High elevation plateau, rolling grassland and multiple use agro-ecosystem Each group worked with the aid of a complete set of A4 sized maps, the list of missing data, and the initial list of key questions for their particular zone to acquire additional information. The Boriwen and Village Development Group staff played a key role in providing information based on their intimate knowledge of their areas Transect Walks Two representative transects walks were undertaken in Tapo and Sop Chia villages in District Zone 4, the zone of priority importance in the District. The work was undertaken by two groups comprised of staff and land users from each village. The transect studies provided information on land uses and farming systems in five slope categories identified within the zone Key Informants District staff and farmers assisted with acquiring additional information needed. Both village men and women were consulted during the two transect walks, a problem census meeting and discussions on vegetable and NTFP marketing Problem Census A problem census meeting was conducted at Sop Chia village In AE Zone 4 to acquire a better understanding of villager perceptions on rural development 21

26 constraints and problems. Groups of men and women contributed to the discussions which provided a list of priority problems as viewed by the community Market Studies Specific market enquiries were made with village representatives as follows: District Zone 5: High elevation plateau, rolling grassland and multiple use zone District Zone 4: Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed zone Cool season vegetable production and marketing - Yom Long Yai village NTFP collection, purchasing and marketing in the eastern sector of the zone at Sop Chia village. 5.4 Information Acquired from Field Work The four multi-disciplinary focus groups acquired the following information: Areas of Focus District Agro-ecosystems: (Zones 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5) Specific Market Studies Indicative villager perceptions of rural development problems and needs Indicative agro-ecological subsystems, or recommendation domains in District Zone 4 Type of Information Acquired A more detailed and accurate description of agro-ecosystems in Phonsay District, including; agro-ecosystem context, land form, slope, soils, elevation, relative climatic conditions, land cover and trends, current land use, farming and livestock systems, fishing, wildlife and hunting, NTFPs, farming and forestry interactions, demography and ethnicity, infrastructure and communications, major livelihood problems, key poverty issues, and development opportunities. Agricultural production information Village poverty status and poverty related problems Provincial Protected Areas status within the District Up-to-date population data Infrastructure and communications A clearer definition of the boundaries of the AEZs for the District A more detailed understanding of the major farming systems of each District agro-ecological zone. A more complete list of key development and agricultural problems and development opportunities for each District zone A clearer understanding of "system properties" and preparation of information to assist system property analysis Cool season vegetable production and marketing: Yom Long Yai village Zone 5 NTFP collection, purchasing and marketing at Sop Chia village in the eastern sector of District Zone 4 Gender dis-aggregated Problem Census Sop Chia village to define and prioritise problems in a representative village of District Zone 4 1 A description of the land uses and cropping systems in Tapo and Sop Chia villages, for five sub-zones: riverside paddy land, gentle lower slopes, moderate slopes, steep slopes and highland Sub-Zones Key Issues Emerging from Fieldwork 1 The Sop Chia Problem Census, presented in Section provides full details 2 See Figure 1, Tapo Village Transect, District AE Zone 4, 19 th May,

27 In addition to the key issues identified during the initial agro-ecological zoning activity, the multi-disciplinary working groups identified additional key issues, problems and development opportunities during field work. These are presented in Tables 5. Table 5: Additional Key Issues, Problems and Development Opportunities Identified for the District Agro-ecosystem During Field Work Zone Key Issues and Problems Development Opportunities Education levels in villages is low; only to There are potential production areas level 5:lack teachers & school materials & which could absorb people from other equipment areas within the District Inadequate government services, ie Improve government services education, health, electricity, including education, health, electricity, communications,agricultural extension communications,agricultural and forestry extension and forestry Some villagers from this zone still collect Improve agricultural extension NTFPs from the NBCA (Zone 2) systems Wet season poultry disease outbreaks Develop village level credit systems Lack agricultural and livestock techniques Conduct opium consumption reduction Heavy rains (floods) cause stream programs and initiate a detoxification pollution program Villagers lack finance for production and Consider the consequences of relocation development: new paddy land, fish pond and conduct land use planning expansion, agricultural tools, & vaccines to studies before attempting re-location protect livestock A lot of opium addiction, 149 people: (women - 11, men 138) Village merging (Ban Sop Kuan & Hat Saang) and land allocation for villagers has not been done Some people still hunt prohibited wild animals Zone 1: Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agro-ecosystem Zone 2: National biodiversity conservation area and buffer zone agroecosystem Zone 3: Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem Zone 4: Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agro-ecosystem Adjacent villagers in Zone 1 graze cattle in the NBCA Lack of suitable farming land Lack funds to invest in agricultural production Lack knowledge in improved farming methods No paddy land potential Opium addiction is quite severe Village re-location and merging has caused many problems; administration, ethnic incompatibility, cultural incompatibility, confusion & lack of production land Social services are not good enough, ie, communications, health (hospitals), schools, & village water supplies The dissemination of technical information and GOL policies by officers is not consistent Village finances for production are lacking, ie, improved seed, fertilizer It is necessary to improve villager knowledge levels so they can absorb new 23 (See opportunities proposed in Section 4.3.5) Clean water supplies for Had Jong and Hat Gap villages Improved health facilities Address opium addiction; detoxification centre Permanent school buildings in Hat Jong and Hat Gap Developing a market place at Don Kham Review the impacts of the village relocation program with the aim of minimising the negative impacts of this program. Improve social services, ie, communications, health (hospitals), schools, & village water supplies Develop village level credit systems Improve agricultural extension systems to improve information flow and agricultural production knowledge at village level Awareness and education programs to mitigate the problem of declining

28 Zone Key Issues and Problems Development Opportunities technical information Not all households are willing to invest in household and village productivity stream fish species and populations There are negative social and land use impacts resulting from re-locating villagers from this zone to river-side locations, eg, Huay Man and Huay Maha Zone 5: High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Eco-tourism potential (because it is an elevated area with an ethnic Hmong population ) Organic vegetables and maize The sustainable harvesting of NTFPs has potential An assessment of "population carrying capacity" of the area to assist planning development activities. Review the plan to move more people from this zone to lower river-side locations 6 Systems Analysis Following field work and the acquisition of additional information, an analysis of each of the District and Boriwen agro-ecosystems was undertaken during the third and final workshop. 6.1 Required Outputs from Systems Analysis The required outputs from systems analysis are as follows: A final zonation of agro-ecosystems of the District agro-ecosystem Detailed agro-ecological descriptions of each of the zones of the District agroecosystem A prioritised list of key issues and development opportunities identified for each of the zones in the District An outline of proposed solutions to the key problems identified for each of the zones of the District. 6.2 Analysis Tools Used The analysis tools used in the final system analysis were as follows: Analysis Output Tools Used 1. Final Zonation A complete set of bio-physical maps of the District and Long Nam Pa Boriwen Plenary session to review of the AE Zones following enquiries in the field 2. Detailed agro- Time-line of events in each zone ecological Zone Transect of each District and Boriwen zone Descriptions Seasonal calendars for agriculture, livestock and NTFP and traditional/cultural events Flow diagrams regarding agricultural production, marketing, and use of natural resources Venn diagrams concerning administration linkages and management systems 24

29 3. Systems Property Analysis 4. Key Issues and Problems 4. Outline of Proposed Solutions Systems Properties Table to assess the four properties: productivity, stability, sustainability, and equitability Key Issue" (paden samkhan) and Problem (bunha) Explanation Table (to distinguish key questions and problems) Key Question and Problems Table Innovation Assessment Table Key Question and Problems Solution Table Available Technology Tables - Farming Systems and Agroforestry Systems 6.3 Detailed Description of District System The Phonesay District system is described using the District agro-ecological zone map, and the district agro-ecosystems transect table. (See below) Detailed descriptions for each of the five AE zones within the District are provided in Section 7: District Agro-ecological Zone Descriptions, in which are included, a transect table description, history time lines, seasonal calendars, flow diagrams, system property analysis, key questions and problem analysis, and innovation assessments Phonesay District Agro-ecological Zone Map The AE Zone map was modified slightly following discussions in the field with district staff and a closer scrutiny on the various larger sized (A3) bio-physical maps in Vientiane. The final district agro-ecological zoning map is presented below Phonesay District Agro-ecosystems Transect Table The district agro-ecosystems transect table was prepared using information recorded during the second workshop and addition information gathered in the field by the multi-disciplinary teams. The transect table includes various descriptors to provide a general description of the district agro-ecosystem. Some descriptors provide bio-physical information while others provide socio-economic information as summarised below. Bio-physical Descriptors Agro-ecosystem context Land form Elevation Slope Geology Soils Relative climatic conditions Land and Forest cover Infrastructure and communications Socio-economic Descriptors Current land use Farming systems (inc. livestock) Fish and fishing Wildlife and wildlife uses NTFPs and uses Farm and forestry inter-actions Demography and ethnicity Livelihood problems Poverty related problems Development opportunities 25

30 26

31 Figure 2 : Transect Description of Phonsay District Agro-Ecosystems High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agroecosystem National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem 1. Agro-ecosystem context An extension of a similar AE zone in neighbouring Luang Prabang District; the smallest of the five zones; ethnic Hmong population; accessible in dry season Centred on the Nam Pa and Nam Bak river systems at the western end of the District; the mostly heavily populated area; has the best infrastructure & communications systems Centred on the Nam Ter river system in the eastern end of the District; lower population than zone 4 & has potential to absorb more people; has paddy land development potential Southern-most part of Nam Et - Phou Loei NBCA; adjacent to Houa Phan Province; some upland cultivation by villages from zone 1; potential for delineation of a "buffer zone" A forested area adjacent to zone 2; bordered by the Nam Khan river; eco-tourism potential; NTFPs and wildlife resources being exploited by outsiders; very low population. 27

32 High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agroecosystem National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem 2. Landform, elevation, slope Mountainous & rolling plateau; high elevation ( masl); slopes between 2% to > 55% 3. Geology and soil types Geology: Pcl -Calcaeous series; mainly massive limestone with conspicous relief, subordinate shale and sandstone Soil types: Plinthic Alisols and Gleyic Acrisols Mountainous, mid elevation ( masl); slopes between 15% to > 55% Less mountainous; mid-elevation ( masl); slopes mostly between 8% & 20%, some areas steeper Mountainous; higher elevation ( masl); slopes mostly between 30% and 55%; some areas steeper Mountainous; higher elevation (mostly masl); slopes mostly between 30% and 55%, some areas less steep Geology: Pca - Argillite series, shale, mudstone, siltstone and fine-grained sandstone Soil types: Ferric Luvisols, about 5% of the land area: Harplic Lixisols about 95% of the land area Geology: Pca - Argillite series, shale, mudstone, siltstone and finegrained sandstone Soils: Gleyic Cambisol (Cmg), Haplic Acrisol (Ach) Haplic Luvisols (Lvh), Plinthic alvisols (Alp); good cropping land Geology: Pca - Argillite series, shale, mudstone, siltstone and fine-grained sandstone; a litle Pcl -calcaeous series Soils types: Mid-zone area : Luvisols; Surrounding the NBCA: Acrisols and Lixisols Geology: Pca - Argillite Series; shale, mudstone, siltstone and fine grained sandstone ("hin garb leung" and "hin garb dum") Soils types: Gleyic and Ferric Acrisols. 4. Relative climatic conditions Area I: Mean average Mean average temperature temperature in 14 to 22º C range: 14º C- 20º C range Average annual rainfall Estimated annual rainfall range: range: 1,600 to 1,800 mm 1,700 to 1,800 mm 5. Forest cover and future trends Mean average temperature range : C Average annual rainfall range: mm Mean average temperature range: 18º - 24º C; Average annual rainfall range: 1,600-1,800 mm Mean average temperature range: 16º - 26º C; Average annual rainfall range: about 1,700 to 1950 mm Mostly "unstocked forest" and scrub; forest cover varies between about 10 % and 60%. Grassland in the less steeply sloping land. Cattle grazing potential 6. Current land use Upland swidden cultivation; Cattle grazing on natural grasslands; Small scale vegetable Mixed forest about 30 %; bamboo forest, upland cultivation & other forest types over the remainder. Forest area decreasing as population density increases (relocation) Forest cover of various types is approx. 30 to 40%, but this is difficult to estimate from land use maps. Forest cover is decreasing in areas where village re-location has resulted in population increase. Forest cover is approximately 60%; de-forestation in some areas by upland cultivation. Wildlife and NTFPs are being exploited by outsiders. About 60 % is undisturbed forest, 30 % degraded forest, and 10 %, secondary scrub. Potential to be classified as a "Provincial Protected and Sustainable Use Forest" Provincial Protection Forest and Provincial Conservation Forest declared in the Nam Pa area; Upland cultivation, paddy rice Scattered natural forest; secondary forest in fallow agricultural systems; upland agriculture; irrigated rice Part of Nam Et - Phou Loei National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA); Shifting cultivation and Natural forest, about 60% of land area; Agricultural cultivation and other uses, about 40% of the 28

33 High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agroecosystem National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem production production, & livestock production uncontrolled cattle grazing land area. 7. Farming systems major crop/livestock enterprises Upland rain-fed rice, maize and vegetables cultivation; Cattle, buffalo, pigs, goats, poultry (chickens ducks) raising; Farming System: A rainfed upland rice farming system; other crops grown include maize and job's tear; and NTFPs Livestock System: Cattle, pigs and poultry Upland rice and mixed crops using upland cultivation (rotational swidden); wet season paddy rice production Extensive-natural cattle raising Shifting cultivation (upland rice), uncontrolled cattle and buffalo grazing in NBCA by adjacent villages in zone 1 Upland rain fed rice based farming system. Other crops planted include, job's tear, sesame and some maize. Livestock: cattle and buffaloes, pigs and poultry 8. Fish and Fishing None; no natural streams and no ponded fish 9. Wildlife Natural river fish conservation "ponds" are managed by villagers in five villages. Varieties include: Pa far; Fish ponds exist in several villages inc, Nam Bor & Thapo Natural stream fishing including pa far, tao (turtle), and others Natural stream fishing including "pa jart" and others Natural stream fishing including Pa Jart and Pa Hian Wildlife species have diminished because of deforestation and annual grassland burning; it is probable that no protected species survive in this zone Wildlife resources include: Tiger, khwang, deer (farn), khating, mia, wild pig, kahor, kua (chicken), wild chicken, tua lin, lan (iguana) and snakes (ngou luang). Non-prohibited spp are hunted, consumed and /or sold in reasonable quantities Hunting of khwang, farn, wild bear, ngeuang (like wildgoat), tiger, kathing, ngean (wild cat -civet), ga hoh (mouse, rat), wild chicken, (gai khua) and other birds species Hunting of wildlife by adjacent villages in zone 1: Kathing, tiger, deer (khuang and farn), wild pigs and monkeys. Wildlife resources include: kathing, tiger, deer (khuang and farn), wild pigs and monkeys. 10. NTFP s for subsistence and sale Villagers collect a wide range of about 50 NTFPs, including economic, medicinal, and housing products. Main ones Commercial NTFPs: Por sa, puak muak, bamboo grubs (tua mae), mak tao, khaem, rattan, & yams. Two NTFP traders NTFP collection in natural forests; mainly mai ketsana, mak neng, por sa, puak muak, and rattan. There is limited Main NTFPs harvested in the NBCA for sale are: mai ketsana, por sa, doot tiang, khaem, puak muak; sold locally The main NTFPs marketed are por sa (paper mulberry), puak muak, toot tiang, khaem, and some mai ketsana. Substantial 29

34 High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agroecosystem National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem are: Por sa, mushrooms, khaem, nor hok, dok euang, yao dong, & mai saang. operate in the zone; markets available all year. Inadequate drying of products cause price reduction and market losses commercial trading because of roads reach only 5 of the 10 villages villages in the Phonthong market (Zone 1) and in Xieng Ngeun District using Nam Khan river transportation. quantities are marketed in Xieng Ngeun District using Nam Khan river transportation 11. Farming forestry interactions Part of this zone was declared a Provincial Conservation Forest in 1996, however large areas in this zone are natural grassland which villagers use for cattle grazing. The conservation forest classification therefore needs to be re-considered 12. Demography and ethnicity Total of 5 villages in Zone Hmong 4 villages Khamu 1 village Villagers are expanding the land area for agricultural production by bringing more forest areas under cultivation. This is partly caused by in-migration, some by District; some voluntary Rotational swidden cultivation and cropping in forested areas; cattle grazing in forests; forest trees used for field fencing; NTFP collection supplements agricultural production Shifting cultivation (upland rice) and uncontrolled cattle and buffalo grazing in NBCA by villages adjacent to the NBCA located in Zone 1 Had Chong and Don Kham villages practice upland cultivation in the zone. The forest areas are also a source of NTFPs and wildlife. Some teak is planted in Don Kham village. Total families: 369 Population 2,567; Hmong 2,290, Khamu 277 Within the Zone there are five Village Development Groups, & 18 villages in which all three major ethnic groups reside. Lao Theung : 11 villages Mixed Ethnicity : 4 villages Hmong: 2 villages Lao: 1 vill. Total of 10 villages in the zone; Three ethnic groups, Lao; 70 families; Lao Theung 479 families and Lao Soong, 62 families Population is 3,722 people; 611 families No resident population in the NBCA; adjacent impact villages: Mixed Lao Theung + Lao Lum: Had Jong; Lao Lum: Pak Vang Lao Theung: Vieng Chaleon & Buakkham; Three "straddle villages" are adjacent to the NBCA: Lao Lum 125 families; Lao Theung 130 families, Total: 255 families. Total population: 1, Infrastructure and communications Walking tracks exist between all villages; a 4WD vehicular road reaches only 1 village (LomYom Yai) One school and health post Villages as far as Sop Chia have quite good road access to the main road connecting to Luang Prabang. Other villages do not have access to roads. Other services include 7 health posts, 18 basic schools & 12 permanent village water supplies Schools: non-permanent - 8; permanent - 1; VWS: Every village has a VWS Health Post: 1 health post; 9 villages have "medicine boxes" Roads: Roads reach 5 villages Radio: Radio broadcasts from Province and Vientiane An access road reaches Phonthong village in the adjacent Nam Ter River area, from where there are walking tracks into the NBCA. The Nam Khan River to the south is the main transportation system to Xieng Ngeun District and Luang Prabang. A road reaches the village of Sop Hout, west of the zone boundary. Don Kham village has a water supply and a level 3 school. 30

35 High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agroecosystem National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem 14. Major livelihood problems No clean domestic water; no reliable all weather vehicular road, low income, no toilets, limited access to schooling Soils fertility levels are being depleted; available farming land is usually quite steep; little potential for more paddy land Health levels are low Villagers still dependent on forests for survival Health levels are low Knowledge levels are low None: No resident population in the zone No road access Insufficient farming land with moderate slopes Education levels are low 15. Key issues in regard to poverty Severe poverty levels in all villages; shifting cultivation is the main form of agriculture; lack of production investment funds; development opportunities are limited until reliable access roads are built 16. Development opportunities If an access road reaches the villages the zone is very suitable for planting short season crops (organic vegetables) for sale in Luang Prabang. If domestic and livestock water facilities are improved, there is considerable potential for permanent settlement of villages, improved livestock production, fruit trees and vegetables Food production levels are low & consumption needs are high Improved crop production methods have not been adopted Production does not follow the market needs; villagers lack market information No economic production system (still subsistence rice system) Lack funds to invest in agricultural production Road system still inadequate; some villages do not have road access None: No resident population in the zone Lack moderately sloping farming land; lack capital to invest in agricultural production; low knowledge on improved farming methods; no potential paddy land available; Opium addiction is quite severe Potential to further develop livestock production systems Some areas used for cultivation - young fallow - could be regenerated to forest. Improve production by adopting new varieties and improved agricultural production methods Infrastructure could be improved through-out the zone Improving access to education Irrigation weirs; expand paddy areas; approximate 100 ha; NTFP domestication; fruit trees, commercial trees, and vegetables Animal raising: cattle,buffalo, goats and pigs Extension of the road to Houa Phanh Province Paper Mulberry growing Develop markets in Phonthong and Huay King Improve extension, management and use of NTFPs Formation of production groups Permanent primary & secondary schools & health posts Potential for eco-tourism Bio-diversity conservation (flora and fauna) and ecotourism. Detailed NTFP, wildlife and fish surveys Land use planning in adjacent villages to improve resource use in the NBCA Village Natural Resource Management Agreements to increase village co-operation in NBCA resource management. Potential to establish an NBCA protection zone) along the boundaries of the NBCA and in the mountainous and forested area to the south west of the Markets for commercial crops exist in Xieng Ngeun and Luang Prabang A road connection between Sop Hout and Don Kham to provide road access to Phonsay and the market at Don Kham. Clean water supplies & latrines in Hat Jong and Hat Gap Opium detoxification centre to treat opium addicts Improved health facilities Permanents schools in Hat Jong and Hat Gap Eco-tourism activities using the Nam Khan river to provide access for tourists. (Buddist 31

36 High elevation plateau, rolling-grassland and multiple use agroecosystem Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agroecosystem National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem Sustainable management of stream fish resources NBCA, adjacent to Phoukhoun and Phoukood Districts. images are housed in caves in Don Kham) 32

37 6.3.3 Key Issues and Important Problems Key issues and important problems identified in the district agro-ecosystem are presented in detail in two tables: Table 2: Key Issues and Opportunities Identified from Initial Agro-ecosystem Zoning of the District Agro-ecosystem Table 5: Additional Key Issues, Problems and Development Opportunities Identified for the District Agro-ecosystem During Field Work Application of Available Farming System Technologies The characterisation of specific recommendation domains for available technologies assists in targeting the replication of technologies to other areas where the technology can be used appropriately. It is possible to match the recommendation domains of improved technologies with the agro-ecological and socio-economic conditions found in any zone because AEA uses a similar set of descriptors to characterise and describe the agro-ecological zones. (Refer to the descriptions for each agro-ecological zone in the transect table above) A number of technology options were identified by the Farming System Component that could be replicated in the zones where similar agro-ecological and socioeconomic conditions match the particular recommendation domain. The recommendation domains in this case are determined by slope categories, ie, flat, moderately sloping and steeply sloping land. The list of technology options were derived by considering several factors in the AEA study areas: 1. Results of PRA 2. Results of on-station research (recommended technology options) 3. Results of on-farm research trials 4. Socio-economic Diagnostic Survey 5. Farmers preferences 6. District priorities 7. Considering agro-ecological factors versus technology sets Technologies are matched with slope categories to provide the most appropriate technology options for each category. Examples of matching technology options with different slope categories found in the District and Boriwen agro-ecological zones are provided below. Slope category Technology focus Technology Sets Technology Subsets (some examples) Flat lands - Sustainable Integrated nutrient Riverbed gardens management 33

38 Slope category Technology focus Technology Sets Technology Subsets (some examples) management of soil fertility Low external Multiple cropping annuals + annuals; annuals + perennials; intercropping, relay cropping input agriculture Increased land productivity Integrated crop-animal systems Agroforestry Animal + feed crops; fodder banks + animals Hedgerow intercropping, boundary/live Gentle slopes and Mid-slopes Steep slopes Sustainable management of pests Some degree of soil disturbance is possible but soil and water conservation measures are desirable Sustainable management of soil fertility Low external input agriculture Increased land Integrated pest management Agroforestry Soil and water conservation fence systems, Biological agents, bio pesticides, cultural practices, crop rotations Hedgerow intercropping, Boundary/live fence systems, Taungya systems, improved fallows, silvopastoral systems Minimum tillage, contour farming, mulching, strip cropping, cover cropping Green manuring, legume integration, crop residue management Biological agents, biopesticides, cultural practices Animal + feed crops; fodder banks + Integrated nutrient management Integrated pest management Integrated crop-animal systems animals productivity Multiple cropping Annuals + annuals; annuals + perennials; intercropping, relay cropping Minimal soil disturbance Soil and water conservation (essential) Forestry Agro-forestry Soil and water conservation Plantations (avoid large tracts of monoculture); Assisted natural regeneration (ANR) Multi-story intercropping, Perennial crop block planting Zero tillage, rock-walls, terracettes, check dams, vegetative contour strips These agricultural and agro-forestry technology options could be used to address a number of agricultural key issues and problems that have been identified by the AEA in each District and Boriwen zone, PRAs conducted by the Farming Systems Component and Diagnostic Studies conducted by the Socio-economic Unit in the Long Nam Pa zones. Only subsistence rice production systems used Must use steeply sloping agricultural land Insufficient moderately sloping land available Lack of knowledge on improved farming methods and technologies Lack of suitable land for paddy development Low yields and low food production Pests and diseases Agro-forestry Technologies Available Increasing population levels High land demand Declining soil fertility Accelerated soil erosion Shortened field rotations Vigorous weed growth The Forestry Research Component presented a number of forestry and agro-forestry technology options that could be considered for the agro-ecological and socioeconomic conditions described in the Tapo Village Transect. These are presented in Table 6. 34

39 Table 6: Agro-forestry Technologies Options Under Research by Forestry Research Centre (FRC) Trees and NTFPs 2. Natural Forest Management Research Trial Topic Planting techniques for Chianglom (Dendrobium pulchellum) Broom grass (khaem) planting in fallow land Khingdam (black ginger) planting in fallow land Rattan planting on sloping land Touttieng (Boemieria Sp.) plant spacing in open slope areas Red cardamom shading in natural forest Cardamom species and spacing (3 Species) (on-going) Single teak tree establishment and silviculture in upland forestry systems (on-going) Integrated tree (Sp.?) planting on steep slopes Bitter bamboo planting time during rainy season (on-going) Forest management of productive village forest Direct seeded forest enrichment planting techniques and methods Seedling forest enrichment techniques and methods using trees and NTFPs 3. Agro-forestry Integrated upland cropping system using hedge-rows, interplanted fruit trees, and annual crops Eagle wood planting in combination with fruit trees, bananas and annual crops Eagle wood planting in combination with other woody trees, NTFPs and annual crops Upland rice varieties in integrated cropping systems (on-going) The Forestry Research Component is also conducting a "tree plantation zoning" study which may provide valuable information for matching tree species to different forestry and agro-forestry recommendation domains Proposed Solutions Proposed solutions for key issues and important problems identified in the district agro-ecosystem are presented in the following tables in Section 7: Table 7: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 1 Table 8: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 2 Table 9: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 3 Table 10: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 4 Table 11: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 5 35

40 7 District Agro-ecological Zone Descriptions The descriptions of each agro-ecological zone were derived from information prepared during the second workshop and additional information gathered in the field. This information was complemented with a systems property analysis for each zone, (productivity, stability, sustainability and equitability), the documentation of key issues and problems and a problem solutions assessment (innovation assessment). The descriptions of each zone are presented below. 7.1 Zone 1- Lower elevation, potentially productive upland agro-ecosystem Spatial Analysis 1. Zone Transect Descriptor Information Land Form The land form is undulating; some areas are higher Slope In the range 8 to 30+% Elevation In range 500 to 999 masl Soils Gleyic Cambisol (Cmg), Haplic Acrisol (Ach) Haplic Luvisols (Lvh), Plinthic alvisols (Alp) These soils are fertile and suitable for cropping and livestock production Relative Climatic Temperature Range : C Conditions Average annual rainfall: In the range : mm There is heavy cloud cover and cool misty conditions every year, some years more than Forest Cover and Trends Present Land Use Major Farming and Livestock Systems Livelihood Systems NTFP Resources Wildlife and Fish Resources Farming - Forestry Interactions Population and Ethnicity others; very cold winters in 1992, and 2001 The forest cover is approximately 30 to 40%. The forest cover is decreasing each year, caused by village re-location and merging where populations have increased There are some opportunities to conserve and regenerate forests in selected areas where the "conditions are suitable" ; village LUP and forest zoning would facilitate this. Scattered natural forest; secondary forest in fallow agricultural systems; upland agriculture; bunded irrigated rice. There are opportunities to undertake permanent field cropping in selected locations where slopes are favourable Upland rice and mixed crops; wet season paddy rice Small scale pig and poultry raising; buffaloes for paddy cultivation and economic security; limited cattle raising Mostly natural (extensive) methods of upland cultivation (rotational swidden) Paddy cultivation where available NTFP collection in natural forests Extensive-natural cattle raising Mai ketsana, mak neng, Por sa, Puak Muak, rattan and others Wildlife: Khwang, farn, wild bear, ngeuang (like wildgoat), tiger, kathing, ngean (wild cat - civet), ga hoh (mouse rat), wild chicken,(gai khua) and other birds species Fish; Pa far, tao (turtle), and others Rotational swidden cultivation and cropping Large animal raising: cattle, buffaloes and goats; open grazing in forests Wood cutting (trees) for domestic use, and NTFP collection In 10 villages in the zone: Na Pieng, Sop Hout, Huay King, Kiew lay, Na Ngoui, Ban Phonthong, Na Ngiou, Ban Buakkham, Phou Samay and Vieng Chaleon. The population is 611 families and 3,722 people, Females: 1,804; Males 36

41 Descriptor Infrastructure, Communications and Information Major Livelihood Problems Poverty Related Problems Development and Conservation Opportunities Information There are 3 ethnic groups; Lao; 70 families; Lao Theung 479 families and Lao Soong, 62 families Schools: Native/natural materials - 8 locations; Permanent School: 1 location; There are 2 villages with schools that do not have teachers VWS: Every village has a semi permanent or permanent VWS Health Post: There is 1 health post in the Zone; 9 villages have only "medicine boxes" Roads: Roads reach 5 villages Wireless: There is wireless-phone "phoney" in the Zone at Phonthong owned by the Army Radio: Can receive radio broadcasts from Province and Vientiane Food: Villagers very dependent on forests for their livelihoods Health: Level of health is low Knowledge levels are low Villagers are restricted to shifting cultivation farming which limits their opportunities to overcome poverty No economic production system - still subsistence rice system Lack funds (investment) for agricultural production Lack of road access in some villages Construction of irrigation weirs Expand paddy areas; approximate 100 ha ; (a survey has been made of 30 hectares) There are areas available to expand cropping, ie, mai ketsana, fruit trees, industrial and commercial trees, and vegetables Animal raising: cattle,buffalo, goats and pigs Potential to extend the road network to reach adjacent Provinces (Xieng Khwang and Xam Neau) Mulberry growing for silk production Market places in Phonthong and Huay King Improve extension, management and use of NTFPs (mai ketsana, mak neng, por sa, puak muak, rattan and others Build "development-economic- production - technique" groups" Build permanent Mattayom school - secondary schools Build permanent health posts Potential for developing a natural tourist industry (eco-tourism) Manage and use (sustainability) stream fish (agreements) Time Analysis 1. Time Line - Historical Profile Events Period Information There were 5 villages in this zone; Ban Na Mart, Na Ngoui, Ban Poung, Ban Hian, and Ban Mun. They were located along the Nam Ter River At this time there were difficulties associated with the war There was potential for new paddy but it was not been developed, The main occupation was upland swidden The villagers fled to the forest during the war to They started a new village in 1974 Villagers started to build paddy fields The paddy rice varieties were introduced from Ban Nga, Phonesay. Equipment to undertake production came from Xieng Khwang There were some security concerns in the area. Disease epidemic "thong daeng" in the area in Sickness outbreak, 40 people died in "Mak daeng" and throat infections, outbreak in people died There was a bush fire in Ban Phon Thong in Government started to merge villages in the area Villagers started to use new higher yielding rice varieties from Xieng Khwang; "khao kai noy", "khao arnong" 37

42 2. Seasonal Calendar Activity\Month Climate/weather Wet season Cool season Hot season Cropping: Paddy Rice Upland Rice NTFP Harvest: Cardamom Por Sa Puak Muak Mai Ketsana Livestock: Cattle/Buffalo Goats/Pigs Poultry Flow Analysis 38

43 Commercial and Economic Inputs and Outputs 39

44 7.1.4 Zone 1 System Properties Analysis Positive Aspects (+) Negative Aspects (-) Productivity Suitable climate for food production High rice yield; rice sufficiency - medium to high Soils are good and there are areas available for expanding production There is potential for a variety of crops Production levels each year are fairly level The people/families that have rice shortage can find seasonal work in the zone or in adjacent zones Large areas available for agriculture and there is potential for irrigation development New areas are being developed for cropping; a small weir is planned with a benefit area of 30 hectares Moderately sloping land being cultivated therefore there is potentially less soil erosion. Longer upland fallow cycles are being maintained Most people have access to farming land Most people have access to NTFP collection areas Market access lacking Access roads lacking Agricultural production techniques need improvement Stability Produce prices are low; lack permanent and stable markets Poor road access in wet season for marketing Sustainability The natural resources are not managed well Land use planning has not been done yet (allocation of agricultural land) Forest cover is reducting Equitability Population increase from re-location Education and health levels are not good; they are lower than other zones Some families do not own or have access to paddy land Zone 1 Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions The key questions, problems and proposed solutions for the Lower Elevation, Potentially Productive Upland Agro-ecosystem are presented in Table 9 Table 7: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 1 KEY QUESTIONS PROPOSED SOLUTIONS Lower Elevation, Potentially Productive Upland Agro-ecosystem - Zone 1 Some people in the Zone in Viengthong, Buakkham, Conduct LUP-LA in the 3 villagers that utilise the forest Na Ngiou, and Phou Samay villages gather NTFPs and and land resources in the NBCA to designate the forest hunt wildlife in the Phou Khoum and Phou Sa areas of and land areas they have rights to access the Nam Et- Phou Loei NBCA Prepare Village Forest and Land Use Agreements for these villagers in consultation with NBCA staff at District and Provincial levels Delineate a buffer zone in the area between the villagers There is a lack of school teachers and school materials and equipment Villagers lack funds for family production activities and the NBCA boundary Secure funds from outside sources, international donors, NGOs, and the private sector to support school construction, school equipment and upgrade teacher skills Develop village based savings and loan groups to 40

45 KEY QUESTIONS Village merging is incomplete in some places, ie, Sop Kuan and Hat Saang. Land allocation has not been undertaken There are many disease outbreaks (epidemics) ; intestinal and "mak daeng" Road access between villages is lacking/inadequate Villagers still practise a lot of shifting cultivation Many villagers still consume a lot of opium; a total of 149 persons in the zone; males 138 and females 11 Depletion of stream fish populations PROPOSED SOLUTIONS support production inputs (GOL and Villagers); low interest rates on inputs to create incentives Assess the need for village merging before proceeding Assess the availability of land in proposed village merging locations for proposed new settlers Delineate village boundaries and land use zones before proceeding with land allocation Secure funds from outside sources, international donors, NGOs, and the private sector to support health centre construction; District Health Service undertake training on hygiene, sanitation, and disease prevention Expand the road network between villages; involve villagers in the road network expansion; also extend electricity to villagers in the future Training and demonstration of improved conservation farming methods; study tours/exchange visits to outside areas Conduct education programs on the risks/impacts of opium addiction; conduct detoxification clinics at the District centre; Prepare village agreements and management rules to help villagers manage the fish resources 7.2 Zone 2 - National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agro- ecosystem Spatial Analysis 1. Zone Transect Descriptor Information Land Form Undulating and rolling land in lower elevation areas; mostly steep land; steep rocky cliff faces adjacent to the Nam Khan River Slope Mostly in the 30% to 55% range with the steeper mountainous areas > 55% Elevation In the range: 500 to 1999 masl Soils In the middle of the zone: Luvisols; surrounding the NBCA: Acrisols and Lixisols Relative Climatic Average mean annual temperature is in the range 18º - 24º C Conditions Average annual rainfall is in the range 1,600-1,800 mm Forest Cover and Forest cover is approximately 60% of the total area; Trends Trends: there is some encroachment from adjacent villages (shifting cultivation and cattle grazing) so there is a small trend towards de-forestation in these areas. Wildlife and NTFPs are being exploited by outsiders. Future possibilities include: conserving NTFPs, watershed protection & wildlife protection Present Land Use Part of Nam Et Phou Loei National Biodiversity Conservation Area (NBCA); Shifting cultivation and seasonal cattle grazing by the "adjacent" villages of Vieng Chaleon, Buakkham and Phou Samay, in Zone 1, and Pak Vang on the boundary of the NBCA Major Farming and There are no resident enclave villages in the NBCA Livestock Systems Livelihood Systems NTFP Resources There are no "enclave" villages in the NBCA. The three "adjacent" villages open graze cattle and conduct shifting cultivation in the NBCA; villagers collect and sell NTFPs, eg, mai ketsana, wildlife (and perhaps wood) from the NBCA. Shifting cultivation is practised by villagers from Viengthong District of Houaphanh Province in the eastern part of the NBCA and from Viengkham District of LPB Province, in the north -west part of the NBCA. The main NTFPs harvested for sale are: mai ketsana, por pa, toot tiang, khaem, puak muak; 41

46 Wildlife Resources Fish Resources Farming -Forestry Interactions Population and Ethnicity Infrastructure and Communications Major Livelihood Problems Poverty Related Problems Development and Conservation Opportunities these are sold in the Phonthong market (Zone 1) and in Xieng Ngeun District using Nam Khan river transportation. Wildlife present are: kathing, tiger, deer (khuang and farn), wild pigs and monkeys. Reasonable quantities are still available in NBCA streams including, Pa Jart and Pa Hian Adjacent villagers conduct shifting cultivation and cattle grazing in the NBCA forested areas (as explained above). No resident population inside the NBCA, however there are "impact" villages, that use resources of the NBCA, ie, Had Jong; Lao Lum-Lao Theung; Pak Vang; Lao Lum; Vieng Chaleon & Buakkham; Lao Theung A basic access road reaches Don Kham and Phonthong villages in the adjacent Nam Ter River area, from which there are walking tracks into the NBCA. The adjacent villages can receive information from radio broadcasts Diseases such as malaria and stomach infections impact negatively on livelihoods of families in villages adjacent to the NBCA Opium addiction makes a significant contribution to poverty in villages adjacent to the NBCA, eg, Buakkham and Vieng Chaleon villages have 14 and 26 addicts respectively; the opium is brought in from outside. Low education and technical knowledge levels contribute to poverty. Bio-diversity conservation (flora and fauna) and eco-tourism. Opportunities exist for more detailed NTFP, wildlife and fish surveys; (see note on WCS surveys below) Land use planning in adjacent villages has potential to rationalise and improve resource use in the NBCA; Village Natural Resource Management Agreements would be useful tools in increasing village awareness and co-operation in NBCA resource management and use There is potential to establish an NBCA buffer zone (or protection zone) along the boundaries of the NBCA and in the mountainous and forested area to the south west of the NBCA, adjacent to Phoukhoun and Phoukood Districts Time Analysis 1. Timeline - Historical Profile Year Information About 80 + Pak Vang, a Lao Lum village, was established at the mouth of the Vang River in the southern part years ago of the NBCA About 50 + The villagers of Nongkhae, Vieng Chaleon, Buakkham, Na Kaew, Phonethong and Nang Oi were years ago established along the Nam Ter River to the west of the Nam Et - Phou Loei NBCA. These villagers have accessed forest areas in the western part of the NBCA for many years 1994 Nam Et - Phou Loei NBCA formed, part of which is located in the eastern end of Phonesay District. The NBCA is bounded by the Nam Ter River and catchment area to the west and the Nam Khan to the south. The Vang River flows south through the NBCA to join the Nam Khan The Nam Et - Phou Loei NBCA received support from a Danida funded Project; project influence on the part of the NBCA in Phonesay District was minimal Adjacent villagers from the Nam Ter area continue to access the western part of the NBCA to do shifting cultivation 2003 A proposal to construct a road from Xieng Khwang Province to link to the village of Phonthong in adjacent Zone 1 is under consideration WCS undertaking wildlife surveys (on-going) focusing on tiger population analysis using "camera traps" to map the tiger habitats and understand predation occurrences on livestock and wildlife; villagers are heavily involved in this activity AEA conducted, which initiated discussion about a possible "buffer zone" in the forested area west of the NBCA between the Nam Ter and Nam Khan rivers Flow Analysis 42

47 7.2.4 Zone 2 Systems Properties Analysis PRODUCTIVITY Positives (+) Negatives (-) 43

48 1. There are quality forest resources and high diversity values; ie, forests, wildlife, NTFPs Positives 1. The forests provide continuous ground cover and reduce the impact of rain on soil erosion SUSTAINABILITY Positives 1. The forest areas provide sustainable habitats for valuable wildlife and NTFPs 1. Adjacent villagers do swidden farming, cattle raising, and NTFPs in the NBCA STABILITY Negatives 1. Villager farming practices (swidden and cattle raising) increase soil erosion in the NBCA Negatives 1. Diversity and quantities of NTFPs and wildlife are being diminished by villagers exploiting the resources of the NBCA 2. If the road passes through the NBCA to Houa Phanh there will be negative impacts on the NBCA resources resulting from road side settlement and convenient access EQUITABILITY Positives Negatives 1. Villagers (3 Villagers) derive income from 1. Outsiders benefit from illegal trading in wildlife. harvesting NTFPs, catching wildlife, and food from swidden cultivation 2. If road passes through the NBCA wealthy outsiders are likely to exploit NBCA resources and Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions Table 8: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 2 KEY QUESTIONS PROPOSED SOLUTIONS National biodiversity conservation buffer zone agroecosystem - Zone 2 How can the rich forest cover and natural resource base Conduct LUP-LA in the 3 villagers that utilise the forest and of this area be maintained while simultaneously land resources in the NBCA to designate the forest and land allowing productive use by adjacent villagers that areas they may access encroach into the NBCA from AE Zone 1 Prepare Village Forest and Land Use Agreements for these villagers in consultation with NBCA staff at District and Provincial levels Delineate a buffer zone in the area between the villagers and Are there any buffer zone needs in the area abutting (adjoining) the Phou Loei NBCA?. Should the area next to Phou Loei NBCA be considered for a Protection Area or Buffer Zone for the NBCA.? The construction of a proposed of main road to link Phonesay District and Houa Phanh Province would pass through the NBCA and have large potential impacts on the NBCA resources. Is the road necessary, or is their an alternate route for the road? the NBCA boundary District and Provincial authorities hold consultations about the desirability of delineating a buffer zone. (using various maps) If agreement is reached, conduct surveys to establish the location and extent of the buffer zone using land use and forest cover maps available maps. Prepare maps indicating the buffer zone area Document an agreement describing the buffer area (including maps). Prepare a submission on the probable impact of the road, based on information that has arisen from the AEA, for consideration by District and Provincial Authorities The District and Provincial authorities consult to understand what proposals have been made for the construction of the road. If there are firm plans for a main road, ascertain if feasibility and environmental impact studies have been made, and the results of such studies Prepare a detailed submission presenting a case for 44

49 KEY QUESTIONS District Authorities do not know exactly where the NBCA boundaries are on the ground which limits the effectiveness of NBCA management. How can the boundaries of the NBCA be marked on the ground to improve staff commitment to NBCA management. Problems NBCA and Buffer Zone Area - Zone 2 Opium addiction Villagers use steep land for agricultural production Natural climate disasters Increasing population Villagers lack knowledge regarding regulations and rules regarding forest land use and management PROPOSED SOLUTIONS considering the re-alignment of the road to avoid environmental damage in the NBCA. Identify reference points on NBCA maps and locate them on the ground. Place NBCA signs where walking tracks cross the NBCA boundary. Proposed solutions Establish co-operation between Phonesay District and neighbouring Districts to reduce the trafficking of opium into the area Establish a rehabilitate centre at the District for detoxification of addicts and prepare agreements with cured addicts (not to return to opium consumption) Train cured addicts in appropriate livelihood activities Undertake appropriate extension and seed fund activities to assist cured addicts take up alternate occupations Undertake LUP-LA to introduce appropriate land and forest uses and agreements on appropriate use of land Train villagers in conservation farming systems that are appropriate to the sloping land areas, eg, no tillage, increasing ground cover, conservation strips etc Integrate agro-forestry, tree crop or fruit tree technologies into farming systems Undertake trials and demonstrations of appropriate conservation farming and agro-forestry systems No solutions proposed Introduce birth spacing education programs Encourage villagers to use birth control methods District staff undertake LUP-LA in these villages Introduce villagers to relevant regulations on forest and land management 7.3 Zone 3 - Forest protection and sustainable use agroecosystem Spatial Analysis 1. Zone Transect Descriptor Information Zone Context The northern part is adjacent to AE Zone 1; The southern part is adjacent to Phoukoon District of Xieng Khwang Province The eastern part is adjacent to Phoukhout District of Xieng Khwang Province The western part is adjacent to AE Zone 1 This area, which still has about 75% good forest cover, is an extension of the forested area that is being proposed as a buffer zone for the NBCA Land Form The land form falls into three Watershed Classes; Class 1 about 40%; Class 2 about 40% and Class 3 about 20 %. The area therefore has potential as a protected forest and sustainable forest use zone. Slope Most of the area is in the slope range %, with some areas steeper than 55%; the 45

50 Elevation Geology Soils Relative Climatic Conditions: Temperature and Rainfall Forest Cover and Trends Present Land Use Major Farming and Livestock Systems Livelihood Systems NTFP Resources Wildlife Resources Fish Resources Farming -Forestry Interactions Population and Ethnicity Infrastructure and Communications Major Livelihood Problems Poverty Related Problems remainder is moderately sloping land in the range 2-30% The zone comprises two main elevation categories: masl range, about 60 % of the land area, and the masl range, about 40% of the land area. Pca - Argillite Series; shale, mudstone, siltstone and fine grained sandstone ("hin garb leung" and "hin garb dum") The soils of the area are all of the same series, ie, Gleyic and Ferric Acrisols. The temperature map indicates three temperature ranges: Most of the area is in the 20-24º C range, probably about 70 % of the land area; some lower lying areas, about 5-10% of the land area, have slightly warmer temperatures probably in the º C range. The remaining more elevated areas, about 20% of the land area, have cooler temperatures, probably in the 16-20º C range. The rainfall map indicates that there are two average annual rainfall ranges; in the southern half of the area in the more mountainous terrain, the range is from about 1,800 to 1950 mm; while in the northern half, where it is less mountainous, the range is about 1,700 to 1,800 mm. Forest composition is as follows: About 60 % is undisturbed forest, mainly Upper Mixed Deciduous, Upper Dry Evergreen, Dry Dipterocarp, and some isolated coniferous forest (Mai Paek and Mai Hing). About 30 % is degraded forest, and the remainder, about 10 %, secondary scrub and other forest types. This forested area offers potential to be classified as a "Provincial Protected and Sustainable Use Forest" as there are both undisturbed areas and degraded forest areas that have been used for agricultural cultivation Natural forest, about 60% of land area; and agricultural cultivation and other uses, about 40% of the land area. Upland rain fed rice based farming system. Other crops planted include, job's tear, sesame and some maize. The livestock system comprises large animals, cattle and buffaloes, pigs and poultry, mainly chickens and ducks.markets for commercial crops exist in Xieng Ngeun and Luang Prabang Farming and livestock systems as described above. In addition forest products NTFPs and wildlife make quite important contributions to the livelihood system, but to what extent is not known. The main NTFPs marketed are por sa (paper mulberry) and puak muak, toot tiang, khaem, and some Mai Ketsana Wildlife resources of the zone include: kathing, tiger, deer (khuang and farn), wild pigs and monkeys. Similar to Zone 2; Pa Jart and Pa Hian inhabit the streams of the area The villages of Had Chong and Don Kham practice upland cultivation in the zone. The forest areas are also a source of NTFPs and wildlife. The villagers of Don Kham plant some teak. There are three (2) villages that straddle the north- western boundary of the zone, Don Kham (Lao Lum) and Had Chong (Lao Theung). The Lao Theung village of Had Gap is located near the southern boundary along the Nam Khan River Ethnicity: Lao Lum 125 families; Lao Theung 130 families, total 255 families. Total population is 1,446 The Nam Khan River to the south of the zone is the main transportation system, providing access to Xieng Ngeun District and Luang Prabang. A gravel road from Phonesay District Office reaches the village of Sop Hout, north of the zone boundary. Villagers can receive radio and television stations programs Don Kham has a village water supply and a Matayom 3 level school. There are simple bush material schools in Had Chong and Had Gap villages; These villages have no reticulated village water supplies, but they are planned for FY Access roads are not convenient and readily accessible, Particularly in the wet season. Insufficient farming land on moderate slopes (farming on steeper slopes) Education levels are low No telephone communication possible Lack of moderately sloping farming land Lack capital to invest in agricultural production and marketing activities Lack knowledge on improved farming methods No potential paddy land available 46

51 Development and Conservation Opportunities Opium addiction is quite severe Extend the road connection between Sop Hout and Don Kham to provide better access to Phonsay and a market at Don Kham. Clean water supplies and latrines in Had Chong and Had Gap (2005 plan) (CESVI Project may support). The building of an opium detoxification centre to treat opium addicts Improve health services in Had Chong and Had Gap; now only "medicine boxes" available. (the Red Cross may support) Construction of permanents schools in Had Chong and Had Gap Eco-tourism activities using the Nam Khan river to provide access for tourists. (Buddist images are housed in caves in Don Kham) Time Analysis 1. Time Line - Historical Profile Year Information Don Kham Village 1900 estim.) A Lao Lum village founded on the banks of the Nam Khan River (about 100 years + ago ) 1950 estim.) Established for many years as a trading post in consumer products used river transportation 1950 to 1990 to present day 1990 to 2004 Trading centre for forest products (NTFPs), timber, wildlife etc Home products such as woven products are also traded In more recent times villagers started planting commercial crops such as job's tear and sesame A permanent school established (Matayom) ; health post established; latrines still not constructed No road access to date Current population is 600 Had Gap 2002 Had Gap was formed by merging three villages; Ban Had Khoun, Ban Lang Tor and Ban Pak Pa A Lao Theung village with a population of 618 Schooling levels are very low; Patom 1 and 2 Opium addiction is high - 54 addicts ; Poverty level is severe. No clean water supply and no latrines Upland rain fed farming is the main occupation Had Chong Prior to This Lao Theung population lived in two different locations; firstly in Ban La Mart, and then in Ban Don Kham ; main occupation was upland rain fed cultivation The village moved to the present site and has since been known as Had Chong Since 1996 Main occupation continues to be upland rain fed cultivation Secondary occupation is NTFPs and wildlife trading using the Nam Khan River An animist society with a population of 228 people; Low schooling levels; (Pathom 1 and 2) Opium addiction is moderate - 13 people 47

52 2. Seasonal Calendar Activity\Month Climate/weather Wet season Cool season Hot season Cropping: Paddy Rice Upland Rice NTFP Harvest: Cardamom Por Sa Puak Muak Mai Ketsana Livestock: Cattle/Buffalo Goats/Pigs Poultry Flow Analysis 48

53 7.3.4 Zone 3 System Property Analysis Positives (+) Negatives (-) PRODUCTIVITY 1. There are quality forest resources and diversity, 1. Villagers cultivation practices reduce forest resources, ie, forests, wildlife, NTFPs NTFPs, wildlife, and wood 2. Villagers derive livelihood benefits from the 2. Opium addiction reduces villager productivity in the forest areas, ie, shifting cultivation, NTFPs, cattle area. grazing STABILITY Positives 1. The forest areas provide environmental protection for sloping land areas and contain soil erosion SUSTAINABILITY Positives 1. The forest areas provide sustainable habitats for valuable wildlife and NTFPs 2. Long swidden cycles provide sustainable rice yields 3. Low population densities reduces pressure on natural resources and the environment EQUITABILITY Positives 1. There is potential for villagers to increase income from eco-tourism activities 2. Access to the Nam Khan river provides marketing outlets for villagers in the area Negatives 1. Villager farming practices (swidden and cattle raising) increase soil erosion in the Protected Area forest Negatives 1. Diversity and quantities of NTFPs and wildlife are decreasing due to villagers encroaching on the forest area Negatives 1. Outsiders benefit from illegal trading in wildlife to a greater extent than the villagers 2. The river provides easy access to the area and therefore increases potential for exploiting resources 49

54 7.3.5 Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions Table 9: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 3 KEY QUESTIONS PROPOSED SOLUTIONS Forest Protection and Potential Eco-tourism Agro-ecosystem - Zone 3 How can the rich forest cover and natural resource Designate the area as a Provincial or District base of this area be maintained while simultaneously allowing productive and sustainable use Develop an ecotourism program involving villagers Conservation Forest. for villagers? Develop eco and social tourism and NTFP concessions or rights directly to resident villages only Develop Agreements between villages and the District and Provincial authorities regarding the management and use of land and forest resources Consider and encourage alternate occupations for What impacts on the natural resource base will the district s current road access plan have on this area, and could it be modified/adapted to allow access for sustainable uses such as ecotourism, while restricting access for non-sustainable uses such as logging and uncontrolled NTFP harvesting? villagers (instead of shifting cultivation) Development of a river/boat access strategy linked to the new road head at Don Kham to be constructed by CESVI. District cooperate with CESVI in developing a river/boat access strategy Develop management and use agreements for the sustainable management and use of NTFPs and the extraction of timber The forest in this zone is more suitable for protection purposes than the area of Conservation Forest in Zones 4 and 5; should this forest be declared a Protected Forest in lieu of the Zone 4 and Zone 5 forest conservation areas. Opium is being brought into villages in Zone 3 causing widespread opium addiction and contributing to poverty. How can co-operation with neighbouring Districts be improved to prevent opium trafficking in Phonesay District?? District consult with the Provincial Forest Office about the feasibility of this proposal based on studies of various land use, population, livelihood and poverty maps produced in the AEA If agreement reached, prepared detailed proposals for making the changes. Prepare the necessary maps and supporting documents to re-delinate the land use areas. Hold consultations with neighbouring Districts to discuss inter-district measures to control drug trafficking into this zone PROBLEMS PROPOSED SOLUTIONS Forest Protection and Potential Eco-tourism Zone - Zone 3 Access to the area is inadequate, particularly in the Implement the plan for road improvement from Ban Sop wet season Hout to other villagers including Don Kham so that villagers have access to river transportation (Nam Khan) Lack of suitable land for agricultural production Develop an eco-tourism program involving villagers Develop eco and social tourism and NTFP concessions or rights directly to resident villages only Consider and encourage alternate occupations for villagers (instead of shifting cultivation) Lack of livelihood development information Improve extension services in this area Opium addiction Establish co-operation between Phonesay District and neighbouring Districts to reduce the trafficking of opium into the area Establish a rehabilitate centre at the District for 50

55 PROBLEMS Lack funds for investment in agricultural production Lack knowledge of improved agricultural production technologies PROPOSED SOLUTIONS detoxification of addicts and prepare agreements with cured addicts (not to return to opium consumption) Train cured addicts in appropriate livelihood activities Undertake appropriate extension and seed fund activities to assist cured addicts take up alternate occupations Consider the establishment of village savings and loan groups with villagers contributing some capital Train villagers in conservation farming systems that are appropriate to the sloping land areas, eg, no tillage, increasing ground cover, conservation strips etc Integrate agro-forestry, tree crop or fruit tree technologies into farming systems Undertake trails and demonstrations of appropriate conservation farming and agro-forestry systems After technologies understood and trialed, consider the introduction of appropriate credit systems 7.4 Zone 4 - Mountainous, recurring sub-watershed agroecosystem Spatial Analysis 1. Zone Transect Descriptor Land Form Slope Elevation Soils Relative Climatic Conditions Forest Cover and Trends Present Land Use Major Farming and Livestock Systems Farming -Forestry Interactions?? Information About 68 % is steep land and about 32% is high and mountainous Slope range16-30%; about 3 % of the land area Slope range %; about 37% of the land area Slope range >55%; about 60% of the land area Range < 500 masl; about 2% of the land area Range 500 to 1,000 masl; about 48% of the land area Range > 1,000 masl; about 56% of the land area There are two main soil types: Ferric Luvisols, about 5% of the land area: Mixture of clay bottom and BS > than 50%. Harplic Lixisols about 95% of the land area: Mixture of clay bottom and SB > than 50% Temperature: Cooler than most zones in the District; Average mean temperature is in 14º C to 20º C range Rainfall: 80% of the area: estimated annual rainfall of 1,700mm; 20% of the area; estimated annual rainfall of 1,800 mm Five different forest cover categories are distinguishable: Mixed forest in the mountainous areas; about 30 % of land area; bamboo forest about 10% of land area; swidden cultivation and paddy about 50 % of land area; and other lands about 10% of the araea Regeneration of forest in some old fallow areas may be possible using village land use planning Provincial Protection Forest and Provincial Conservation Forest are declared in the Nam Pa area; there is potential, using village level LUP to classify some areas as protection forest, areas for upland cultivation, paddy areas, and areas for short season crops, wet and dry seasons, and also for livestock grazing Farming System: A rainfed upland rice farming system; other crops grown include maize and job's tear; and NTFPs Livestock System: Cattle, pigs and poultry KumNam Bor: D-S and W-S -commercial (short season) Kum Pak Nga: D-S commercial (short season) Kum Jom Chiang: Livestock raising, short WS season crops, (crops and paddy ) 51

56 Descriptor Livelihood Systems NTFP Resources Wildlife and Fish Resources Farming -Forestry Interactions Population and Ethnicity Infrastructure and Communications Major Livelihood Problems (adjacent villages only) Poverty Related Problems (adjacent villages only) Development and Conservation Opportunities Other Problems Information Kum Huay Hao; Maize (commercial), large animal raising Kum Tang Sa Leuang: Rice and large animal raising Kum Sop Chia: Short seasoc crops (WS - upland) and livestock raising (maize, sesame and Mak duay) The main livelihood systems are the rain-fed upland rice farming system and the livestock systems; Food and income is also derived from NTFPs Not reported on Not reported on Villagers collect NTFPs from the forest and they are expanding the land area for agricultural production by bringing more forest areas under cultivation All three major ethnic groups are represented; Kum Nam Bor ; 3 villages, Lao Theung?? Kum Tang Sa Leuang: 3 villages Lao Theung Kum Sop Chia: 6 villages, Lao Theung; 1 village Lao Soong Kum Pak Nga: 1 village, Lao Theung Kum Jom Jiang: 1 village, Lao Theung, 1 village Lao Soong Kum Nam Bor: 3 villages, mixed ethnic Kum Sop Chia: 1 village mixed ethnic Kum Pak Nga: 1 village, Lao Lum Villages along the Nam Pa river area as far as Sop Chia have quite good road access to the main road connecting to Luang Prabang. The more distant villages do not have access to roads. Other infrastructure is quite well developed, including including 7 health posts, 18 basic schools & 12 permanent village water supplies. Soils are not very fertile and land is usually steep; Flat land very little; the people are not industrious (kart doo mun) Health levels are low Food production levels are low while consumption needs are high Improved methods of crop production have not been adopted Production does not follow the market needs; villagers lack market informatiom There is potential to further develop livestock production systems Some areas used for cultivation - young fallow - could be regenerated to forest. Villagers could improve production by adopting new varieties and appropriate agricultural production methods Infrastructure could be improved through-out the zone Improving access to education UXO; surveys would be beneficial through-out the zone Time Analysis 1. Time Line - Historical Profile Period Information 1800's Pak Vie and Pak Nga villages migrated from Houa Phanh Province between 100 and 200 years ago and started paddy rice cultivation in the area adjacent to Phonesay District Centre 1800's to 1959 Pak Vie was the main Lao Lum population centre in the area 1959 A village fire destroyed many houses in Pak Vie and successive severe floods caused the majority of villagers to move to Pak Nga 1959 onwards Pak Nga became the main population centre and paddy land was expanded 52

57 Period Information 1988/89 The EU project constructed a permanent weir at Pak Nga which has a benefit area of 74 hectares; Pak Vie has a paddy area of 13 hectares About 1988/89 A rural access road was built to the District Centre at Phonesay 1998/99 The access road was improved by the EU project 1999 onwards Hmong villagers from the highland zone started to establish houses near Pak Nga so their children could attend school in Phonesay 2001 onwards Hmong villagers from the highland villages of Pha Toup, Phou Soong Noy and Pha Cha Norm have been migrating to Huay Maha village area as part of the GOL re-location program. Land use conflicts and confusion has occurred as a result of these the population increase 2001 onwards The LSUAFRP has been working in 5 target villages and some adjacent villages Currently Ethnic Khamu comprise about 59% of households, Hmong 29%, and ethnic Lao 12% in the zone 2. Seasonal Calendar Activity Seasonal Calendar - Agriculture and Livestock -Month Temperature Cold Hot Rainy Cold Upland Rice Site Selection Clearing Burning Post burn Clean Up Planting Weeding (1) Weeding (2) Weeding (3) Harvest Vegetables -Harvest Rice Livestock Chickens Pigs Flow Analysis 53

58 7.4.4 Zone 4 System Properties Analysis Positive Aspects (+) Negative Aspects (-) Productivity 54

59 Positive Aspects (+) Negative Aspects (-) Good quality agricultural land is available along water courses and there are upland areas and good quality grassland is available A range of local varieties are normally used in agricultural production - varietal diversity. Farmers have experience and techniques for selecting appropriate cropping areas for a range of various crops Forest resources, NTFPs, fish and wildlife are in reasonable condition and abundance The elevated areas offer opportunities for a more diverse range of crops eg, vegetables and fruit trees Two season cropping is possible in some areas with irrigation which stabilises production to some degree Some villages have good road access, both main roads and tracks which stabilises product marketing Access to forest products helps stabilise livelihood systems, both for consumption and markets Livestock raising helps stabilise production systems in years when staple crops yields are reduced by diseases and floods Markets are available for agricultural crops, NTFPs, and domestic livestock Local varieties are tolerant and adapted to local environmental conditions (weather conditions) Backyard vegetable production for consumption can be sustained all year The local areas provide villagers with herbal medicines and materials for housing, etc (self sufficiency) There is a local produce market every 10 days and NTFP market locations which encourages increased production of economic commodities There are rules and systems for managing all natural resources Most villages have access to schools (Pathom) - equal education opportunity Most villages have health posts - equal health service opportunities Division of labour between man and women is shared equally; (Lao Lum only) Most villagers can engage in raising both large and small livestock which provides broader benefits among the population Stability Sustainability Equitability Most upland has only wet season potential Upland crop yields are declining Very little paddy land available; limited potential for expanding paddy Knowledge about selection of good farming sites is not yet broadly understood. Villagers use only local knowledge for production Re-location has caused land use problems, including encroachment into forests and more exploitation of NTFPs Villagers use only "old" crop varieties - no new varieties introduced Mountainous land soils are not the most suitable and fertile for cropping, eg, Phou Hong (high and steep) Crop yields are declining because of increasing population and shortened field fallows Lack of technical knowledge causes frequent livestock epidemics and livestock mortalities Rain (& bad roads) interrupt product transportation from the field to markets Crop diseases and floods cause yield reductions from year to year NTFP resources are being over exploited in some villages and there is no conservation measures Villagers do not change local varieties for new improved varieties. There are numbers of species facing extinction, ie, orchids, stream fish and wildlife; eg, "phou lou", "pa far" (fish spp), and "lin" (lizard spp) People do not understand and practise government regulations and agreements on sustainable natural resource management In some villages the crop land is not enough for all family In some areas the land is only suitable for a few types of crops only Some villages do not have communications and access to information during the wet season Not all people can produce sufficient food In some ethnic groups, the women have too many children, labour a lot, have no time for rest, and no family planning ie, Lao Theung and Lao Soong Produce prices are not consistent between villages in the zone; some villages have fewer opportunities Lack of land for farming and land disputes because of village re-location Villagers are not able to negotiate good commodity prices because the middle men with concessions have monopolies. 55

60 7.4.5 Key Questions, Problems & Proposed Solutions The key questions, problems and proposed solutions for the Mountainous, Reoccurring Sub-watershed Agro-ecosystem are presented in Table 10 Table 10: Key Questions, Problems and Proposed Solutions - Zone 4 KEY QUESTIONS PROPOSED SOLUTIONS Mountainous, Reoccurring Sub watershed Agro-ecosystem - Zone 4 Villagers are short of agricultural land ; the amount of Land shortages are in part caused by increasing land available does not meet demand populations due to villagers being re-located and merged in this Zone, (more so than other zones), ie, concentrating populations. Make more land accessible for villagers by extending access tracks to former production areas in old village locations Curtail future plans for merging or re-locating more villages to alleviate population concentration Undertake land capability assessments to understand land carrying capacities before moving villages Calculate and compare population densities in District AE zones and prepare development strategies based on populations. Increase research and extension activities in this zone with the aim of increasing crop yield and production levels Improve infrastructure (clean water etc) in less accessible villages Unsatisfactory education of the population Improve the education levels of both adults and children Improve the knowledge of teachers so they can provide better education for children Provide better and more school materials and equipment to primary schools Provide education opportunities and funds for ethnic Insufficient funds have been used to enable/ support families to engage in agricultural production that will alleviate poverty children living in the more isolated villages Encourage villagers to use more of their own funds and resources for agricultural production and match this with funds from government or other sources Indicative Problems Zone 4 (From Problem Census - Sop Chia Village) No. Women's Group Men's Group Village Problem Priority Ranking 1 Lack funds to buy crop seeds and improved livestock breeds Lack funds for agricultural production Lack funds to buy crop seeds and improved livestock breeds 2 Families with a lot of children are poor Agricultural land is not suitable; it is mountainous and steep Our families have a lot of children which makes us poor 3 Expenditure is more than Low crop production and lack Prices of cash crops fluctuate income cash crops 4 Children do not attend school because there is a shortage of Prices of cash crops fluctuate Only one cropping season because there is no paddy land teachers 5 Lack access roads linking Shortage of land for agriculture Inadequate and poor quality access villages for marketing products Short of farming land and lack knowledge of agricultural Lack knowledge on improved cropping techniques roads Short of suitable less steep farming land and lack knowledge of 56

61 Indicative Problems Zone 4 techniques 6 Animals often die because there is no vaccinations 7 There are many illnesses and we have very little money to buy medicines 8 Women labour a lot and have no time to rest and leisure 9 There is a lack of equitability between men and women 10 Farm production areas are very isolated, portage is difficult & we carry babies to the fields 11 There is no family planning because we do not know birth control methods 12 We can not work, labour shortage because we have many children 13 Lack nutritious food and therefore health is not good (From Problem Census - Sop Chia Village) agricultural techniques We have many children which Education levels are low and makes us poor schooling inadequate; too few teachers Lack labour for agricultural Health is not good because we lack production nutritious food and we have little money to buy medicines Inadequate and poor quality There is no family planning because access roads we do not know birth control methods Education levels are low Labour shortage. Women can not Health is not good because we lack nutritious food work because they have many children Animals often die because there are no vaccinations There is a lack of equitability between men and women Farm production areas are very isolated, portage is difficult and we have to carry babies to the fields Women labour a lot and have no time to rest and take leisure Problem Summary by Sector - Sop Chia Village - Zone 4 Agriculture Production funds Lack farm land Economic Poverty Low incomes Health Social Education Infrastructure Poor nutrition Social inequity Poor education Lack good roads Lack medicines Birth control & family planning Lack teachers Agric. knowledge Family planning Many children No restleisure (women) Livestock vaccine Produce prices fluctuate Heavy work loads (women) Lack farm labour Lack cash crops Declining yields Land too steep Livestock breeds No paddy land 7.5 Zone 5 - High elevation plateau, rolling grassland & multiple use agro-ecosystem There are three distinct areas comprising this Zone, Area I, centred on Lom Yom Yai village, Area II, an extension of Phou Soong in Luang Prabang District, and Area III adjacent to the boundary between Xieng Ngeun and Phonesay District in the south west part of the Phonesay District Spatial Analysis 57

62 1. Zone Transect Descriptor Information Elevation Area 1: In the range of 800 to 1,730 masl. Area 2: In the range of 500 to 1,000 masl. Area 3: In the range of 745 to 2,130 masl Slope Varies in the ranges: 0-2%; 2-8%; 8-16%; 16-30% and 30-55%. Some mountainous areas > 55% Land Form Mountainous country in Areas 1, 2 and 3. A combination of quite flat, undulating land, and rugged terrain Watershed Class A combination of: Class 1: (steep slopes, rugged; should be protected), Class 2: (steep slopes, less susceptible to erosion; can be used for forest, agro-forestry & grazing with conservation measures), Class 3: (moderate to steep slopes, less erosive, use for trees, grazing, forest, and cropping with conservation measures) Class 4: (Gently sloping land, wide range of uses possible; conservation measures) Geology Area I: Mainly Pcl Calcaeous series, massive limestone with conspicous relief, sub-ordinate shale and sandstone Area II: Mainly Pca + Argillite series, shale, mudstone, siltstone and fine-grained sandstone Area III: Combination of Pcl and Pca series. Soils Relative Climatic Conditions Forest Cover Forest Cover Trends Present Land Use Livelihood Systems (Farming system & Animal Raising) Forest Products Wildlife and Fish Agriculture and Forestry Relationships Population and Ethnicity Infrastructure Area I: Plinthic Alisols and Acrisols; shallow A horizon overlaying rock and gravel; Area II: Acrisols; combination of heavy clay and sandy soils & other soil types Area III: Gleyic Acrisols Temperature Area I: Mean average in range 18-22º C Area II: Mean average in range 14-20º C Area III: Mean average in range 14-20º C Rainfall Areas I and II: Mean average annual in range 1,600 to 1,700 mm Area III: Mean average in range 1,700 to 1,800 mm Areas I and II: Mostly "unstocked forest" and scrub; forest cover Area 1, about 20%; Forest cover Area 2, about 10% Area III: A variety of forest types; forest cover about 60%. In Area 1, the reduction in population due to re-location, may increase the possibility that forest cover will increase. Agricultural swidden cultivation, cattle grazing on natural grasslands Upland rain-fed rice, maize and vegetables cultivation; traditional production methods - (patom patarn) Livestock raising; cattle, buffalo, pigs, goats, poultry (chickens ducks) Villagers collect a wide range of NTFPs; the NTFP survey conducted by the Land Management component, indicates there are as many as 50 NTFPs, including, economic, medicinal, and housing products. A range of wildlife species are hunted. Wildlife species have diminished because of deforestation and annual grassland burning; it is probable that no protected species survive in this zone Area 1 was declared a Provincial Conservation Forest in 1996, however large areas in this zone are natural grassland which villagers use for cattle grazing. The conservation forest classification therefore needs to be re-considered Lao Soong - 4 villages; Lao Theung 1 village Total families: 369; Lao Soong 321 families; Lao Theung 48 families; Total population 2,567; Females 1,265; Lao Soong 2,290, Female 1,132; Lao Theung 277, Females 133 Walking tracks exist between all villages; a 4WD vehicular road reaches only 1 village 58

63 Descriptor Communication Livelihood Problems Poverty Problems Development Opportunities Other Problems Information (LomYom Yai). There is no irrigation No clean domestic water; no vehicular road to all villages, low income, little sanitation Severe poverty levels in all villages; shifting cultivation remains the main form of agriculture; lack of production investment funds; communications and roads are difficult; development opportunities are limited until reliable access roads reach the villages The zone is very suitable for organic vegetables for sale in Luang Prabang. If domestic and livestock water facilities are improved, there is considerable potential for permanent settlement of villages, improved livestock production, fruit trees and vegetables. When villagers migrate from this zone to other villages, social and land use problems occur in the host villages, ie, social incompatibility and land use confusion and shortage Time Analysis 1. Time Line - Historical Profile Period Historical Information 18th -19th Villagers migrated from China and established a village at Pha Toup; villagers later divided centuries to other villagers in the area, ie, Pha Toup Neua, Pha Toup Neua, and Phou Soong Noy A village fire destroyed about 100 houses, and many cattle were killed 1970 A Tasaeng was established at Pha Toup; this village was a strong revolutionary village Little development activity took place during this period, villagers undertaking subsistence agriculture, livestock raising and opium production 2000 The EU project built a dry weather access road to Long Yom Yai from the road connecting Phonesay to Luang Prabang; also a village water supply, health post and a school An access road was also built by the EU project part of the way to Pha Toup Neua from Pak Vie village near Phonesay District centre. Some families moved to Pak Vie, so that their children could attend school at Phonesay. A village water supply was also built at Pha Toup Neua Approximately 90 families moved from Pha Toup Tai, Phou Soong Noy and Pha Cha Norm villagers to Huay Maha as part of the District's re-location plan, and others migrated to Long Yom Yai attracted by the services provided by the EU project. The movement of many families to Huay Maha has reduced land availability for both the new settlers and the original Khamu residents 2004 Solar power was installed in Long Yom Yai by the EU project Farm Activity 2. Seasonal Calendar Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Hill Rice Clear Clear Burn Prepare Plant Weed Weed Weed Harvest Job's Tear Clear Clear Burn Prepare Plant Weed Weed Weed Harvest Sesame Clear Clear Burn Prepare Plant Weed Weed Weed Harvest Por Sa Harvest Harvest Maize Clear Clear Plant Plant Weed Weed Harvest Vegetables Harvest Harvest Plant Plant Harvest Harvest Plant Plant Harvest Livestock NTFPs Khaem Por Sa Khaem Por Sa Khaem Por Sa Jandai Puak Muak Khaem Jandai Puak Muak Khaem Puak Muak Khaem Por Sa Puak Muak Por Sa Por Sa Por Sa Por Sa Khaem Por Sa Khaem 59

64 7.5.3 Flow Analysis 60