SAK Nepal

Terrace edges

Problem: Another problem faced by terrace farmers is that crops with expansive root systems such as corn show low yields on terrace edges, which comprise 10-20% of the horizontal land area.

Our Solutions:

•Many Nepalese farmers grow maize on terraces, but maize is a large plant with a very deep root system which prevents it from being grown successfully on terrace edges as the roots experience rockwall cracks, causing very low yields. To reduce wastage of terrace edges which comprise 10-20% of terrace surface area, we are working with local farmers to select and test compatible edge legumes for human consumption, livestock forage legumes and cash crops, including perennial cover crops.

•We are using the SAK picture book of best practices to scale up these concepts which are easily translated to hillside farmers in Africa and Haiti.