Potential Role of Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) for Poverty Alleviation in the Mekong Basin: An Assessment of Farmer-Based Networks in Promoting IFS
This report examines the role of integrated farming systems (IFS) and farmer-based networks in improving livelihoods, food security and self-reliance among small-scale farmers in Northeast Thailand.
Introduction
Integrated farming systems offer an alternative approach to conventional commercial farming by combining diverse agricultural activities, making more efficient use of farm resources and reducing dependence on external inputs. For small-scale farmers, this approach can contribute to household food security, lower production costs, environmental conservation and more resilient rural livelihoods.
This Thailand country report assesses integrated farming systems and farmer-based networks across five provinces in Northeast Thailand. Drawing on household surveys and focus group discussions, the study compares integrated farming system (IFS) farmers with commercial farming system (CFS) farmers and explores the economic, social and environmental benefits of IFS, the role of farmer networks in sharing knowledge and strengthening communities, and the challenges involved in adopting and sustaining these practices.
Introduction
Integrated farming systems offer an alternative approach to conventional commercial farming by combining diverse agricultural activities, making more efficient use of farm resources and reducing dependence on external inputs. For small-scale farmers, this approach can contribute to household food security, lower production costs, environmental conservation and more resilient rural livelihoods.
This Thailand country report assesses integrated farming systems and farmer-based networks across five provinces in Northeast Thailand. Drawing on household surveys and focus group discussions, the study compares integrated farming system (IFS) farmers with commercial farming system (CFS) farmers and explores the economic, social and environmental benefits of IFS, the role of farmer networks in sharing knowledge and strengthening communities, and the challenges involved in adopting and sustaining these practices.
