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Thesis Proposal MSc. Organic Agriculture

Development of Sustainable Organic Cropping Systems for Pineapple

Growers in Costa Rica

Student: Maria Pia Gamboa

Supervisor: Johannes Scholberg and Walter Rossing

Farming Systems Ecology (FSE) Wageningen University

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Preface Acronyms Executive Summary

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Table of Contents

1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 4 1.1. History and Distribution .......................................................................................................... 4 1.2. Characterization Farmers and Area ..................................................................................... 5 1.3. Global Markets Evolution in Costa Rica .............................................................................. 6 1.4. Developments in socio- economic development and Environmental Factors ...... 7 1.5 Possible Future Solutions ......................................................................................................... 8

2. Research components– Objectives ............................................................................. 13 3.1 General Objective ....................................................................................................................... 13 3.2 Research Questions ................................................................................................................... 13 3.3 Hypothesis .................................................................................................................................... 15

4. Materials and Methods ..................................................................................................... 15 4. 1. Knowledge and organizational Aspects ........................................................................... 15 Farm Typology/ Indicators ............................................................................................................ 15 4.2. Developing sustainability Indicators Aspect .................................................................. 17

5. Thesis Structure ................................................................................................................. 20

6. Supervision and planning ............................................................................................ 20

7. References ......................................................................................................................... 21

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1. Introduction

1.1. History and Distribution

In Costa Rica PINDECO the leading pineapple producing company triggered a pineapple boom during the early 1980s (Aravena, J. 2005). Since then, Costa Rica has become world’s number one pineapple exporter. The exponential growth of hectares led to an intensification of production, extensive use of external inputs and a shift in market orientation. Before the introduction of the white Hawaiian pineapple variety growers were planting local pineapple varieties and were mainly producing for internal market. After the introduction of white Hawaiian pineapple (Quijandría, G .1997), the sector grew from 3400 hectares in 1986 to 45.000 hectares in 2010. Moreover, exports to Europe between 2000 and 2008 increased from 0.16 to 0.67 million tons while the market share increased from 36 to 73% (EOSTA-ICCO, 2010). However, Costa Rica dominating global pineapple markets brings about high economic risks since production has become marginalized while the environmental costs are posing a major trait in terms of long-term viability.

Most of the pineapples are produced in the northern part of Costa Rica (Huetar Norte) and this region accounts for 52% of the national pineapple production (See figure 1.). In Costa Rica there are around 1300 pineapple farmers of which 1200 are small holders, 95 intermediate and 35 are big farmers. In terms of the entire production area, 35% belongs to trading companies while 65 % are independent producers that might be members of the several cooperatives and associations of small and medium producers. (CANAPEP)

Figure 1. Regional distribution of pineapple in Costa Rica, the proposed case study is located in Zona Huetar Norte (red circle) Source: Aravena, J. 2005

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In 2007 it was determined that 6 products concentrated 90 % of the total production of agricultural land in this region: pineapple, orange, cassava, sugar cane, heart palm and basic grains. When it comes to export a large diversity of products were exported, most the product were concentrated in pineapple, juices, fruit concentrates, tropical roots and ornamental plants. RHN is located at the north side of Costa Rica bordering Nicaragua at the north, Guanacaste and Alajuela at the south, Limon at the east. This region has a territorial extension of 9.803 km 2 , which represents 18% national territory. This region has a tropical climate with a rainy season extends May to January/February, and the dry season extends from March to May. Precipitations is very variable, in average form 2.000 mm/ year in the plains with temperatures of 26 °C and up to 5.000 mm/ year in the volcanic areas with 20° C. A relative humidity of 80-90% and a solar radiation of 3-5 hours daily. This region presents serious problems of erosion in the high parts, this because of the use of inadequate agricultural practices, high deforestation and lack of conciseness from local people. The current growths of productive activities have generated certain unbalances in the environment, which have provoked soil degradation, waterway contaminations and problems with solid waste management. In recent years an effort from public institution, private enterprises, municipalities, international cooperation have been trying to find rational soil use and recuperation of natural resources. The main activities are based on producing traditional products (rice, sugar cane and tropical roots) and livestock production, which is entitled to half of the employees in the area. No traditional production of pineapple, citric, macadamia, pepper among others and finally touristic industry. The biggest impact in this area as pointed out before is the large amount of pineapple being grown in the region. The livestock industry was the most affected to the expansion of these products for exporting and processing. (PROCOMER, 2008)

1.2. Characterization Farmers and Area According to the Ministry of agriculture the majority of small holders in the area dedicated to the cultivation of pineapple because of the high cost of planting 1 ha of MD2, no advantage of good prices for the fruit in at least 3 to 4 years. In 2005 the value per kilo paid to conventional farmers was on average $ 0.42 in the packing plant. At this time prices were unstable until 2007 ($ 0.30 or more) decreasing from $ 0.25 to $ 0.17 depending on the size of the pineapple, and according to the price trend prices can be lower each year. According to past president of CANAPEP, stated in an interview that small producers that sell to intermediaries are the most affected by the process. These producers are especially vulnerable to fluctuations, since packing plant and trading companies will reject fruit very easily arguing different problems with the fruit (brix, translucently, burned fruit, crown problems, etc.). It is expected to find information of the current information of price fluctuation and rejection of fruit during the past years (2012 and 2013) (MAG, 2007). Besides this the cost of production keep increasing, in 2007 in was calculated that inputs costs

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had increased in at least 25%, as also did services like transport, mechanization: building drainages, fitosanitary and fertilizers applications. Since pest problems have kept increasing producers have no other choice but to apply more often. All this activities plus the instability of prices, is perceived as a diminution in rentability compared to earlier years like the beginning of the 2000´s in which the activity was very profitable. (MAG, 2007)

As shown in Table 1, there are three types of farmers in Costa Rica by different actors(CANAPEP and EARTH University): small, medium and large scale producers. Small-scale farmers are characterized by having smaller sized farms without any packing station for pineapple. Some reports mentioned even smaller (family-based) farmers (1-2 ha), that sell only in local market and that are being characterized by producing other crops such as cassava, oranges, sweet potatoes, while to also are engaged in animal husbandry. This will be explored further to identify all clusters existent in the area. Medium scale farmers are usually bigger in terms of land ownership and have also direct access to a packing station, which may be shared among farmers. Large farmers are usually cultivate extensive areas and have their own packing station, and are typically associated with international companies, which commercialize the export of pineapple. (Kellon, 2011). However, specific characteristics of each type of farmer are not well documented nor are clear how farm size affects production efficiency and sustainability. The goal of the interviews and workshops is to identify and recognize all this characteristics. Table 1. Characteristics Producers in Costa Rica. Source:Aravena, J. 2005and Kellon,D.

2011 & MAG 2007.

Type of Producer

Hectares Yields Conventional

Infrastructure Technical Knowledge/Economical Capacity

Micro-producer

> 1 Unknown No packing station

Technical Experience and economical limitations.

Small < 50 (1-10 ha)

Unknown No packing station

Capacity to plant 600.000 pineapple plants

Medium 50-250 Unknown Access to packing station.

Capacity to plant and pack 1.000.000 Pineapple plants

Large > 250 80 -110 t/ha Private packing station.

Capacity of production/ packing and exportations of 2 to 4 containers weekly.

Transnational Unknown Unknown Private packing station.

Capacity of production/ packing and exportations of 5 containers weekly. Defined markets.

1.3. Global Markets Evolution in Costa Rica To adapt to global markets many producers had to specialize their production schemes and focus on a small number of commodities for export markets (pineapples, ornamental plants, tubers and others). This trend was partly a response to government policies that aimed to increase export at the time. As a result,

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agriculture evolved rapidly in this area and this triggered various transformations in the farms of the area. Due to the rapid expansion in pineapple production other agricultural activities were being deemphasized and often abandoned. This led to reduced food self sufficiency, internal market shortages and eventually triggered the import of essential food crops. Crisis in other agricultural activities gave drastic changes on the traditional uses of the soil (Acuña, G. 2006). Some farmers in the area continued producing commodities for the national market (beef, beans, milk, among others). Many farmers also have been also pioneering to other activities including rural agro-tourism as a complementary source of income. As farmers started focus on providing other services there was also a shift towards nature conservation, natural resource preservation including a focus on maintaining biodiversity, which increasingly is becoming integral part of farmers identity. (Faure, 2002)

At the same time international markets increased product quality standards (physical appearance, sugar content, size, among others) and logistics of production and processing became more complex. This ultimately led to pronounced modifications of the farm system in orders for producers to comply with international export regulations (HACCP, ISO, among others). The volatile economical conditions at the present time makes it also more difficult for farmers to maintain their livelihoods as is indicated by s harp decrease in the number of family-based farms in some regions (Los Chiles, Guatuso, Upala) At the same time big enterprises consolidate and expand (oranges, pineapples, banana, tree nurseries) their operations and are outcompeting smallholder farms. Regardless, the different economical results for different farm types depend on several characteristics and circumstances (farm structure, size, biodiversity, financial capacity, and access to knowledge, technologies, markets among others). Besides this, the objectives of the farmers are known to vary as well (Faure, 2002).

1.4. Developments in socio- economic development and Environmental Factors

Due to developments during the past two decades the socio-economic context was unfavorable thereby, creating uncertainty for family-based farmers. They have been forced by global market forces to specialize and intensify. This led to increased production, through increased dependence on expensive technologies, like imported agrochemicals, machinery, and fossil-fuel consumption. All this development occurred with specialized technical support which was favored by government’s policies and subsidies and large companies controlling external distribution markets, (Faure ,G. 2002) and (Aravena, J. 2005).

In Costa Rica problems have arisen with smallholder foundations or cooperatives, which aimed to stimulate family-based farms. One very known case is Proagroin. The purpose of this cooperative was to improve the productivity and viability of small and medium farms, through the provision of credit, technical assistance, training, research and business management. According to local producers, the opposite occurred, mis-management prevailed while no technical support was provided, which eventually resulted in wide-spread bankruptcy. Hundreds of small family

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producers were faced with the harsh reality of loosing their farms due to unpaid credits (Costa Rican News Teletica, March 2013). In figure 2 the national news show a time line introducing the pineapple farm troubles. According to the article published the mayor problem is affecting the communities of Pital, Upala and Guatuso all form RHN region. A study conducted by the Ministry of agriculture (MAG) indicates there are around 350 pineapple operations are present in bank loans for production, from which around 200 are up to date with payments, 100 are presenting problems and 50 have no longer any salvation.

Figure 2. Costa Rican newspaper La Nación pg 20A. Published on the 20 th of June 2013 Newspaper shows a timeline showing since 2001 when the pineapple boom took place until now a day. Translation in purple color.

Besides market and management issues producers are facing many other problems. The unprecedented expansion of pineapple has created extensive environmental impacts including deforestation, soil erosion, soil degradation, and contamination of agrochemicals of water resources (Aravena, 2005.). A study conducted by EARTH University in Costa Rica highlighted the most important concerns to small farmers: i) soil erosion, loss of inherent soil fertility and reduced crop productivity; ii) deforestation; iii) poor residue management resulting in swarms of Stomoxyscalcitrans flies that attack beef cattle on large farms and reduce weight gains; iv) sedimentation and clogging of water basins; v) contamination and degradation of water resources by high use of pesticides (Kellon, 2011).

1.5 Possible Future Solutions Based on this assessment most actors in the pineapple sector in Costa Rica, perceive

2001 This year marks the initiation of pineapple expansion. 11000 ha planted.

2003 In between 2003 & 2006 the income for exportation grows 24 -32%. The business nourishes.

2005 Water Laboratories from A&A detected Bromacil in public aqueducts near pineapple farms. Local and international complaints.

2006 Fruit is paid to producers approximately at 0.47 $/kg

2011 Producers crisis. Fruit is paid to producers approximately at 0.30$/kg 2012

Many producers in the activity 42000 ha planted in the country.

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that current production practices are not sustainable, this undermines their livelihoods which in terms jeopardizes global market supply. The information presented above highlight farmers perceptions of the main issues and provides a clear justification why they are willing to change the way they are producing pineapple. Based on the issues presented above, research is required to guide farmers in Costa Rica during the exploration process for more sustainable production systems. This involves several steps based on the DEED approach outlined by Giller et al 2007. wants to be explored as shown in Figure 2. The main focal area for the initial stages of the project takes place in the Huetar Norte region of Costa Rica, which is the main pineapple production area. During the implementation of this project we aim to address problems using an integrated approach. It is important to find sustainable strategies, which can easily be implemented and adopted by different farmers groups. To identify viable options for more sustainable development should be based on optimization of the entire farm and assessment of different farm components (Dogliotti et al 2013). This process may involve farm characterization, farm interviews, more detailed studies of selected farms during explorations and sustainability assessment . This all in the context of design and development of viable integrated management practices and production strategies based on key problems identified by farmers and researchers during the co-innovation process (Rossing et al., 2010).

Active participation of farmers and a continuous dialogue among stakeholders is essential both during the problem identification (problem tree development) and when exploring and structuring solutions. In this thesis this paradigm will be explored, and input of the different actors involved in the chain will be actively solicited. Proposed strategies may include green manures, intercropping systems, crop rotations, composting and market diversification and will include strategies identified during interviews with local producers. This integrated system approach aims to help farmers to gain more autonomy and reduce their dependency on external inputs and international markets. Diversification is essential in order to reduce risks by spreading income across different activities/commodities, thereby avoiding dependency on single commodity and the associated global price volatility. Having different products and producing for different markets appears to be preferable for producers but also requires enhanced organization. Technical support and training of farmers is essential, as is securing suitable and sustainable market outlets for their products in both international and national markets. However, this requires direct involvement and close collaboration among different actors during project conceptualization and implementation to ensure feasible solutions that farmers can readily adopt.

If farmers can manage these systems successfully and produce different products in a cost-effective manner this can help them to be more competitive in global markets. Preliminary surveys have shown that there are organic trading companies such as EOSTA (biggest importer or organic fresh products in Europe) and Ariza (buyer of organic processed juices) that are willing to invest in sustainable sourcing of organic

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commodities (HenkZoutwelle, 2013). Such companies have a vested interested in securing a continuous supply of high quality organic products from Costa Rica and are willing to support this project. Support from the local government is also pursued and it appears that the project is well-alligned with the current governmental policy to promote ecologically-sound production and carbon-neutral agriculture (MAG, 2010)

However, in order to develop the project an initial diagnosis needs to be developed with help of local stakeholders. The initial stage of the project is a socio-economic analysis of the farmer’s problems, resource endowment, production techniques, production capacity, and identifying producers interested to actively take part in pilot studies (Dogilotti, S. 2013). At a subsequent stage, funding is being requested to implement and evaluate viable alternative technologies starting with small pilots including different type of farmers (based on farm size and technical knowledge, etc.)

This project has been initiated based on different criteria’s. First of all, producers cannot change their current high input, high tillage production systems immediately, and need adequate support while adapting different production techniques where as the conversion to organic should be gradual. Secondly, when changing farms the difference in organizational and operational components should be considered and solutions should be placed in the context of resource endowment and market access. If producers aim to evolve towards more sustainable production systems they will need support or incentives to be successfully during this transition and to be able to continue implementing the required changes in their farms. Producers of intensively managed farms thus may have to invest in improved inherent soil structure and fertility, making use of a combination of different management strategies and technical interventions presented above. Farmers experiment as part of farming and are “learning by doing” and in this way farm management skills and production techniques evolve continuously through a “learning selection” mechanisms (Citation?). Nevertheless, small farmers are increasingly confronted with situations for which their experience provides limited guidance. At this point, researchers can play a role in supporting the intrinsic learning capabilities of farmers so that they can make better-informed decisions by helping them manage the complexity of their farms and adapt current practices to emerging conditions. Throughout the DEED process researchers interact closely with stakeholders and also learn by analyzing current situations and prevailing practices and actively consult with local actors when identifying desirable futures and plausible outcomes. Use of system design tools can reinforce this process by allowing researchers to analyze many farm structures and corresponding management practices that farms represent. Such innovation processes appear to be more effective when also involving actors from the wider farmer network, including government support, suppliers, retailers, and policy makers. (Rossing W., 2010) Based on this premise, it is essential to identify actors involved in organization and evaluation of the project. An outline of some of the actors that have been identified to be supportive and involved in the project is outlined in Figure 2. Meetings and workshops have to be carried out with different actors, which might be involved during the future implementation of this project.

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Figure 3. Outline of key actors and interaction among actors in the proposed sustainable pineapple production project in Costa Rica.

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An overview of different stakeholder groups and corresponding attributes is provided in Table 2.

Table 2.Overview table of stake holder groups origin, characteristics and purposes in the project.

Stake holder Groups

Pineapple Producer EOSTA Soil & More WUR-FSE / EARTH University Supermarkets /Organic Markets

Exporters Government and Public Institutions

NGO´s

Origin CR NL NL NL & CR NL &CR CR CR & NL CR & NL Description Prevailing practices

of the pineapple industry are currently degrading and eroding Costa Rica’s soils. The over-production of pineapples in Costa Rica causes an imbalance in global market of pineapple

Importer of organic goods in Europe

Subsidiary of EOSTA and aims to explore viable solutions for rendering today’s organic /conventional agriculture more sustainable.

Agricultural Universities Buyers of organic products, supporters of SPA research center. Via the “Nature and More” program of EOSTA we aim to increase the awareness of consumers to the SPA program.

Purpose Growers could shift to an integrated agricultural system thereby producing sufficient pineapple to meet global demand, while diversifying operations and producing other commodities that match the need of both local and global consumers.

Receiving all the organic products. They are supporting the initiative and have a big involvement in the organic pineapple industry in Costa Rica.

They are a key element in the project since they are the experts in compost pilots. Together with ICCO they started a compost business plan for Costa Rica and Ghana pineapple producers.

Provide knowledge, tools and training. Provided a bridge between the industry and future experts and development of required skills and knowledge. Provides scope for increased collaboration and development of joint project activities between these universities. WUR-FSE can provide a conceptual framework and system design tools and techniques while EARTH University can provide in-country support as related to lab facilities and more applied knowledge and training requirements.

It is also desirable to link it to the “Safe our Soil” campaign that is a joint effort of both EOSTA and FAO. In this manner the project can serve as a showcase demonstrating how consumers can invest in sustainable soil management and protect fragile ecosystems by buying organic pineapple.

Making the whole network of future growers work. The project envisions growers groups which will be created to generate a continuous supply of organic quality products including pineapple, ginger, and lime.

Support and recognition of growers, which directly contribute toward creating more sustainable production, should be formalized through subsidies, funding or tax benefits. Programs and incentives to promote sustainable practices at the national level are essential

Are important to give support and interest by the public sector. In the past ICCO has been instrumental during the implementation of pilot studies, other NGO’s that are interested in contributing to the implementation of the project also need to be identified. as well that wants to contribute to the implementation and success of the project.

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Based on a review of existing literature there appears to be a lack of technical assistance, poor management, excessive use of external inputs and mechanization, limited involvement of local actors resulting in a general discontent of local farmers. This master thesis project thus is structured such that it warrants active involvement of both farmer and other players in the pineapple production chain. Not only when definition of key issues but also during subsequent design and implementation of suitable production strategies and management techniques as integral part of project implementation.

2. Research components– Objectives

3.1 General Objective The aim of the research is to develop a farm typology in order to identify the different clusters of existing farm types in the case study area in Costa Rica. During this characterization, participatory approach techniques will be used such as: interviews and workshops. This will be followed by an in-depth analysis for two representative farms per cluster (organic vs non-organic) this will provide more insight of resource allocation and product management including inputs use and yields for the different clusters of producers. This to evaluate difference between actual conventional and organic systems across different farm scales programs such as the Farm design model along with principle component analysis and sustainability indicators will be used. These methods are essential to evaluate the farms performance in terms of environmental and socio-economic indicators with special reference on soil quality since this have been identified being the mayor issue. During the initial project implementation phase the main objectives are to 1) characterize local pineapple production systems; 2) Study underlying processes that govern sustainability of these systems; 3) Explore the impacts of selected management interventions using the Farm Design model in selected farms. In this manner the aim is to provide a scientific basis for subsequent system design activities during the second project phase. This project also aims to assist with the design of optimal intercropping systems for tropical production regions in Costa Rica. By identifying required changes in the system the project aims to help support the production and diversification of high quality produce thereby improving the livelihood of local farmers of all sizes. As part of this study we also aim to identify potential farmers that are committed to be actively involved in pilot and on-farm studies. Such approach has been demonstrated to be very effective during subsequent disseminating of innovative production systems and /or management techniques to other farmers (Dogliotti et al 2013).

3.2 Research Questions Knowledge and organizational-related aspects 1.) What kinds of farmers are open to change?

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2.) Why are existent organic farms having trouble to overcome current production schemes? Are all sizes having the same trouble? What are the main causes of this? Possible solutions? 3.) What type of farmers are able to work together and what is needed to streamline this process to ensure that farmer groups will pursue different production schemes? 4.) Are farmers interested in being directly involved in research activities and how may they benefit from this? 5.) Can producers easily manage new management tools and techniques and how can pilot farmers be more actively engaged during the dissemination of system innovations? 6.) Is the information that will be gathered during interviews, surveys and workshops relevant to farmers and how may it benefit different stakeholders? 7.) Does the project go beyond the transfer of technology or can it promote participatory approaches between farmers? 8.) How does market-orientation (organic vs conventional) and farm size affect the above aspects? 9.) Is it possible to organize and manage a group of farmers to produce and market certified organic products for both local and European markets ? Developing sustainability Indicators 1) What are the main problems identified by farmers regarding soils quality, inherent soil fertility, soil degradation and environmental degradation and how does farm size and market orientation affect these ? 2) Which indicators make most sense for different stakeholder groups in terms of assessing sustainability including soil quality, economic performance, labor use, among others? 3.) What are the key indicators required to measure land degradation in pineapple farms? 4) What methods and analysis techniques are most suited to assess farm sustainability based on priorities listed by local stakeholders? Designing alternative systems for future project 1.) Would farmers be able to manage an intercropping system producing quality products that can be marketed locally and internationally? Would big organic farms be willing to start pilots in their farms?

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2) What would be their main concerns, priorities and recommendations?

3.3 Hypothesis

H01: Three main clusters will be identified in the farmer’s typology: small (family labor), medium (hired labor and family labor) and large specialized farmers (only hired labor, especially companies). Characteristics of each type of farmer are not clearly identified. With the interviews and workshops this characteristics want to be clearly identified and recognizable to work better with every type of farmer.

H02: The sustainability indicators are going to asses different performances like

environmental, economical and social factors. Organic pineapple will show a better performance in farm management and in some indicators presented below. Agro ecological small holders’ farms (producing more the one commodity and integrated animal husbandry) will present a better farm performance but will have more organizational and management skills problems.

H03: Small growers are interested in going towards a more sustainable production

system, they are the cluster group which can attain and engage more actively in this kind of investigation.

H04: This approach will identify actors (NGOs, governmental institutions, among others )

that will be part of the initial pilot stages in the project and help the project and research rum smoothly. From the methodology the farmers, which might be involved in a future continuation of the project, will be identified.

H05: This analysis is a helping tool towards design of agro ecological farms with

techniques like: new farm management, soil building, intercropping, compost and animal integration, among other identifies during the process for the implementation in future pilots in the later part of the project.

H06: Different sized organic farms can have different management strategies affecting

them in different ways. By analyzing with software and indicators the different sized organic and conventional farms, deficiencies or problems can be identified, helping to find attainable solutions and strategies for different size farms.

4. Materials and Methods

4. 1. Knowledge and organizational Aspects

Farm Typology/ Indicators This methodology is created to characterize farmers in a certain area. It is necessary to identify characteristics that are representative to each group of farmers in similar clusters (characteristic mentioned below). In the hypothesis three clusters are expected

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to be identified, according to literature and personal experience in organic certification agency (BCS Oko Garantie, organic inspector). Size Family members Access to knowledge Animal production with arable land Access to road to exit products Organic /Conventional Autonomy of the farm Productivity Criteria Income Criteria Food Security Diversification (G. Faure, 2002) For this part of the methodology at least 20 farmers (rule of thumb) must be characterized and interviewed to be able to make a clearer typology. We need to identify organic farms in the clusters to make a contrast comparison of both systems. From every cluster identified at least 3 farms (organic, agro ecological and conventional) will be taken to the rest of the methodology: Farm design performance and sustainability indicators to go in depth analysis of their farm performance. Most probable only for small and medium producers this agro ecological farm can be identified. (Scholberg, J. 2013) Interviews and Workshops Farmer’s interviews are essential to understand their different visions and production strategies. To be able to attain a methodology for implementation, farmers must be involved in all stages of the process. Surveys are a guide for determining farmer’s wishes, problems and typology. Workshops will be carried out with farmers and technical research promoters of the area. Since it is a new paradigm, possible changes and adaptations might happen on the way. This methodology is a participatory approach for information gathering in order to design the best farming systems corresponding to the needs of all the actors involved in the chain.(Dogilotti, S. 2013). Farm Design Modeling Farm design is a modeling program created by Wageningen University. This program permits the integration of the whole farming system. It is a tool to evaluate the performance of the farm at many different levels: soils, economical, nutrient cycling, labor, and many other important factors. This program can permit to distinguish the differences between farmers, their main problems and success of the different types of farming: organic or conventional. (Groot, J. 2013) This to compare and contrast real improvements of either systems.

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As mentioned above at least 3 farms (organic, agro ecological and conventional) will be taken to the rest of the methodology: Farm design performance and sustainability indicators to go in depth analysis of their farm performance. For this 2 organic farms have been already selected: a big organic farm called Corsicana with approximately 400 ha, which enters in the farm typology of big producers. They share a certified packing station with the conventional area of the company and have only hired labor with specialized managers. The second organic farm id owned by Daniel Herrera, with a size of 20 ha, considered a small-medium producer. He sells his pineapple to a cooperative of producers called Agronorte. These farms have been selected to analyze deeply to rate farm performance and differences to find out how organic production can be maximized and minimizing losses as well. The other farms will be selected during the process of interviews and workshops.

Problem Trees After the stage of analyzing all the information gathered during the workshops, the project passes on to the next stage of formulating problem trees. This will be a way of analyzing the farmer’s performance and management at every farm aspect. Using these problem trees, which will be presented to the actors, discussion will be carried out to achieve consensus on the main problems that want to be addressed in the new farm designs. In the problem trees a new section wants to be included to further support the study. Farmers must contribute to finding solutions for their problems to start a mental mapping of new strategies to find solutions.

4.2. Developing sustainability Indicators Aspect Identify sustainability Indicators A sustainability evaluation can be a relevant tool in creating indicators for the area. A particular focus in this stage of the project will be towards participatory approach. By taking into account the demands of the different actors mentioned above, the projects intention is to thrive towards integration of following elements, farmers envision of sustainability, technological and environmental aspects, social and economic factors.

Soil Diagnosis of Degradation The organization supporting this project was born from the efforts of EOSTA (importing company) & a Dutch NGO (ICCO) to carry out a study on pineapple production in Costa Rica and Ghana. In 2010 a team of experts visited two farms (Corsicana in Costa Rica and Bio-exotica in Ghana). The outcome of this field study was that soil was one of the most important – yet neglected- natural resources. In order to improve sustainability, pineapple producers and farms thus are stimulated to learn more about their soils, which ultimately is their only and most valuable production asset. This is the reason why field diagnosis needs to be carried out, to identify major issues, management problems and deficiencies in the soils. Using FAO technique, USDA analysis for on field evaluation and Visual Assessment will be providing essential insight into the situation.

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(http://www.fao.org/docrep/010/i0007e/i0007e00.htm) (Soils &More: Anne Mordhorst) Other indicators are also established as social and economical factors. It is essential to understand that this methodology could change after the meetings with the different stakeholders. The interests of many people in the chain vary on different aspects, which must be taken into account. This methodology is open to changes. For gathering some of the information we will count form support from different projects and Universities. This fact can also make the indicators change through the process depending to the possibilities of help granted by EARTH University and Agro Norte Study financed by IDH (soil performance). Table 3. Indicators of sustainability: environmental, social and economical factors.

INDICATORS

Environmental

Indicators Soil Indicators

Soil degradation

SOM

Soil erosion

Wind erosion

Soil fertility

pH

Soil nutrient status/balance

Salinity

Soil suppressiveness Resistance to diseases

Environmental quality

Contamination Indicators

Nitrates

Pesticide accumulation

Social Indicators

Stability

Crop diversification

Food security

Prices and profit share

External Dependence

Economical Indicators

Economical

Performance

Productivity

Labor use and productivity

Cost/benefit ratio

Finally a diagram that fits all the components of the methodology is presented. They are all linked to gather information for the ultimate goal to design and explore new design systems.

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Table 4. Overview of Methodology aspects and methods.

Aspect Methods Citation

Knowledge and organizational

-Farm Typology -Interviews and Workshops -Farm Design Modeling - Problem Trees

Sustainability Indicators

- Identify sustainability Indicators - Soil Diagnosis of Degradation

Designing alternative systems

-Second Stage of project or possible PhD.

4.3 Limitations of the Study This study was based in the information provided by actors and producers in the northern area of Costa Rica, except for the soil analysis presented in the second face of the research for specific farms being analyzed further. For the amount of time available

Figure 4. Diagram research components. DEED Cycle Adapted. (Giller, K. E., et al. 2008.)

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for the study only --- of surveys could be carried on to form a characterization and typology of pineapple producers in Costa Rica. More accuracy would have been achieved by questioning a bigger sample. Many producers were afraid to share certain information because of the big on going competition in the market of pineapple, especially organic pineapple. Being able to lower your cost and having more production is the goal achieved by every producer or company, so sharing information like these with your competition is avoided.

4.4. Thesis Structure

Preface Summary 1. Introduction

2. Purpose of the study

2.1 Research objective

2.2 Research questions

2.3 Hypothesis

3. Materials and methods

3.1 Farm Typology/ Indicators

3.2 Interviews and Workshops

3.3 Farm Design Integration

3.4 Sustainability Indicators.

3.5 Problem Trees

4. Results

5. Discussion

6. Conclusions

7. Recommendations for pilot design – Primary designs

8. Acknowledgements

9. References

10. Appendices

4.5 Supervision and planning Supervision The work will be supervised by Dr. Johannes Scholberg and Dr. Walter Rossing,Farming Systems Group. In Costa Rica help from SPA board members: Daniel Herrera (pineapple organic farmer and soil scientist in EARTH University) and Dennis Gaughen (Manager Organic Farm Corsciana, Costa Rica). Close supervision will always continue by HenkZoutwelle, president and supervisor of thesis from SPA and EOSTA. Planning

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5. Results This section includes all the results from the farm surveys and field studies in specific farms chosen according to the typology and characterization of the pineapple producers. The most important categories taken into account were farm characteristics and resource endowment to separate farmers into a typology. Certain characteristics were identified to be able to separate farmers, included: ha, owned land or rented, credit or no, family working on farm, animals or no, planting density, own machinery or rented, temporary or fixed workers, crop rotation, packing station, cooperative or individual and price/kg.

5.1 Survey Results

The surveys were carried out to 60 farmers in the different areas of the RHN. All types of producers were included in the surveys: organic, conventional, small, big, cooperatives, individual, etc. Most interviews were carried out in the months of September and October. They basically consisted in visiting each farmer in their office or farm to carry on the questionnaires elaborated for small and big producers, presented in annex 1. According to the survey results farmers can be separated into three groups as established in the beginning of the thesis. With the results of the surveys a cluster analysis was

Summary of Survey

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For survey analysis different techniques are used One type of analysis that is useful in classifying survey respondents into groups of respondents who had similar responses is a cluster analysis. This kind of analysis consists of a method on grouping respondents into groups with similar responses to the survey. Each group might represent a particular segment of the market with unique attributes, attitudes, and characteristics. Small producers After the tours on the field-visiting farmers three main groups were identified and separated by different characteristics: small, medium and big producers. Small producers are characterized to have smaller land ownership, no fixed workers and family working on the farm (specially male sons). They work only with temporary workers for planting and harvesting pineapple. After all the interviews 2 groups could be separated between the small holders. The first group would be considered the farmers with smaller areas between 1- 8 ha, which normally have been asking for credit either in a programs like Proagroin or from the bank (Mostly national banking like Banco Nacional). These are the most fragile producers since they have no enough money income to reinvest in the farm. Besides they are still paying their debts. Besides having debts some of this farmers do not posses any machinery, which means they must rent it from other people increasing the costs even more.

The second group of small holders shares many of the characteristics mentioned in the first group like: family work, credits or others depending of the producer. Some of these farmers hire fixed workers and also count with temporary workers for harvest and planting tasks. Some differences were found like ownership of machinery (which has been bought with credit from banks). These farmers are characterized from having around 10- 50 ha; many of them have different activities in their farm besides pineapple growing. Some of the most common activity in the area is dairy farming (forming part of a Costa Rican Cooperative Dos Pinos). Many of the producers said "Dairy farming pays the bills and allows us to plant more pineapple to have extra money for higher commodities. " Some of them rented land and also planted other crops like roots and tubers (cassava and yams). This normally allows producers to have enough money returns from their harvest it increases the money they can invest to make their techniques more industrial. One of the producers was even going into the processing business of pineapple canned and ready to export, which was giving them no problems of acquisition and commodities. The national program ProAgroin is an example of a program introduced as a program to help small producers plant pineapple and have a more independent production. After the interviews and insight of the producers the program wants to be approached as an example of a failed producers program. For many of the producers this was seen as a great program which would benefit them and create a difference in their communities giving jobs and possibilities of producing to people which did not have this possibility before. When the boom of pineapple happened in Costa Rica the tendency of most producers was to start in the pineapple business.

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This program came to offer producers credits to plant pineapple with continuous assessing from engineers from the company, which at the end was having a lack of assistance according to producers. Besides getting assistance producers had a contract for selling their product with a fixed price that was not respected either. What happened in many cases was that producers were induced to plant pineapple under these conditions by which they accepted credits. Different problems were identified in the program and some of them are mentioned below. Producers were given credits and some of them mismanaged money the wrong way, which was not the case for all of them. Many producers simply suffered from a program, which was mismanaged. Also the problems of payments and fluctuating prices plus no assessing became an issue for most producers. Small holders harvested their pineapple production expecting to gain enough money to reinvest and pay their debt but at the end the opposite was happening. Many were under paid and some remain unpaid by the company, besides being convinced to take out more credits to continue planting. At the end the credits kept stacking up for producers until the moment they went bankrupt. Many of them got out of the project before going bankrupt but many stayed until they were eliminated completely. For small producers the cooperatives and producers identified the following biggest problems: 1. Technical assessing

Many producers are depending on their own knowledge or on the advice from supplying companies. Many engineers in Costa Rica sell packages of inputs to farmers without trying low input use or only preventive usage of agrochemicals. Besides environmental laws and certifications that are being demanded by buyers make it harder for farmers to produce without technical assistance.

2. Market All the intermediaries and commercial companies in the area are managing the market. Depending on the offer and demand of pineapple they fluctuate prices making it sometimes not rentable to plant pineapple. Between companies they make up prices and demand in the area, sometime make it impossible for producers to sell their pineapple. When demand is very high at the packing station almost accepting any fruit they would reject when companies are not in need of pineapple.

3. Fluctuating Prices At a moment in 2006 pineapple was being paid at 0.46$/kg which made pineapple very profitable. With production cost of 0.20-0.25 $/kg depending of the producer this price was very good. In the last couple of years the prices have gone down fluctuating from 0.23- 0.32 $ for fruit sizes 6,7 and 8. With such low prices profit is almost impossible for producers with the high cost of inputs and other tasks.

4. Difficulty to collect money payments Many of the buyers and commercial companies are not paying the producers for the pineapple. Many producers are owed thousands of dollars because the incapability of companies to pay the money of the pineapple being exported.

5. Financing: Having credits unpaid from companies like Proagroin many producers decided to leave the company and take credits with other banks to take their debt to pay

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their initial debt. This does not allow them to have the financial possibility to plant more pineapple.

6. Buyers Credibility: Producers are loosing faith in their buyers and many are loosing their farms. Many do not believe anymore their possible buyers but they have no choice, weather they sell their pineapple to whom ever takes it or they loose it all.

Medium Producers Medium Producers are characterized by having 50- 100 ha approximately. They are normally individual farmers that have enough monetary acquisition. Normally having a farm manager (either the farm manager is an engineer or the owner) and fixed workers characterize them. They are normally certified under the labels required by commercial and packing companies, like Global Gap and Tesco. They are still dependant on buyers and commercial companies to sell their pineapple. Normally they get contracts and better prices than smaller producers, they also seem to have less problems with unpaid produce. Price fluctuation is still a problem for small holders as for medium producers. Problems established by medium producers: 1. Price Fluctuation 2. Input Costs Big Producers In the case of big producers the case is very different because there are big conventional producers and organic producers (only 2 in Costa Rica). Big producers are characterized from having more than a 100 ha. These producers are characterized by having fixed workers, own machinery and packing station. Normally are characterized by exporting their own pineapple to different destinies. They are considered enterprises owned either by individuals or known companies like: Del Monte, Pindeco, Dole or Chiquita. They are using the highest planting densities compared to small producers. Big producers are not affected by international prices as small and medium producers. Big producers can play with prices more since they have much more land of production. Besides they do not have to deal with intermediaries to sell their product, they sell straight to importers in USA or Europe. Identified problems in large-scale production 1. Lower costs with new fertilization methods 2. Erosion investigation 3. Fly management and plant waste management 4. Biological management for cochineal Organic Producers are interested in 1. Fertilization Methods (Compost or new methods of managing fertilization) 2. Management of stubble to manage fusarium

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3. Generate technologies for managing dynamics of diseases with high capacity of adaptation and study their life cycles.

4. Raising awareness to final consumers – high cost of production vs low yields (20% less) and a market that makes little difference price wise.

5.2 Problem Trees The problem trees were elaborated as an important tool to have an overview of all the known causes and effect to different identifies problems, many of this that interconnects. The problem trees are used as a tool for the workshops to demonstrate part of the results to producers and shareholders. The problem trees were separated into three categories: big conventional producers, small holders, and organic producers.

Figure 5. Problem tree summarizing main problems defined by small pineapple producers of the RHN. Green boxes represent the main problems of the farmers.

In figure 5 the problem trees brought out a number of important common problems and consequences of small holders performance of their farms in the RHN. After all the meetings and interviews the main problems identified by most of the farmers are

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represented in the green boxes. In one of the meetings attended after the interviews they identified their main problems as:

1. Market and counseling 2. Commercial Companies and intermediaries 3. Prices- Uncertainty 4. Difficulty to collect payments 5. Financing 6. Credibility toward buyers- called phantoms

Copepiña, which is a cooperative of producers located in Pocosol, San Carlos created this list in one of their meetings with the producers.

Figure 6. Problem tree summarizing main problems defined by organic pineapple producers (medium to big) of the RHN. Green boxes represent the main problems of the farmers. Orange boxes represent root problems.

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Figure 7. Problem tree summarizing main problems defined by conventional pineapple producers (medium to big) of the RHN. Green boxes represent the main problems of the farmers. Orange boxes represent root problems.

5.3 Cluster Analysis 5.4 Workshops

6. References

- Aravena, J. 2005. LA EXPANSIÓN PIÑERA EN COSTA RICA LA REALIDAD DE LOS PERDEDORES DE LA AGROINDUSTRIA EXPORTADORA DE LA PIÑA. COECOCeiba. Available at: coecoceiba.org/wp-content/subidas/2010/03/pub11.pdf

- CANAPEP (CamaraNacional de Productores y Exportadores de Piña) Costa Rica. Available at: http://www.canapep.com/pina-de-costa-rica/historia

- Costa Rican News Teletica, March 2013 Available at: http://www.teletica.com/Noticias/5108-Asamblea-Legislativa-investigara-a-Proagroin-tras-denuncias-de-cientos-de-pineros.note.aspx

- Dogliotti, S. 2013. Co-innovation of family farm systems. A systems approach to sustainable agriculture. Agr. Systems incomplete!

- Giller, K. E., C. Leeuwis, J. A. Andersson, W. Andriesse, A. Brouwer, P. Frost, P. Hebinck, I.

Heitkönig, M. K. van Ittersum, N. Koning, R. Ruben, M. Slingerland, H. Udo, T. Veldkamp, C. van de Vijver, M. T. van Wijk, and P. Windmeijer. 2008. Competing claims on natural resources: what role for science?. Ecology and Society 13(2): 34. [online] URL:

http://www.ecologyandsociety.org/vol13/iss2/art34/

- Faure, G and D Meneses, 2002. The Farm in the region Huetar Norte: and evaluation

28

of actual conditions of the farms of family producers.CIRAD Francia and MAG (Ministry of agriculture Costa Rica.)

- Groot, J. 2013. Analysis and Design of Farming Systems Course, Wageningen University.

- Interview HenkZoutwelle, 2013. Manager Importer and Seller EOSTA, Netherlands.

- Interview Anne Mordhorst, 2013.Soil & More Foundation - She has developed sustainability indicators for Nature & More framework.

- Kellon ,D. et al. 2011. Perspectivas de los productores de piña e implicaciones políticas para promover la producción ecológicamente sostenible de piña en Costa Rica. Ecoagriculture Partners in cooperation with EARTH University. Available at:

http://www.pnp.cr/backend/files/catalogo/4999_Perspectivas%20de%20los%20productores%20de%20pi%C3%B1a%20e%20implicaciones%20pol%C3%ADticas%20para%20promover%20la%20producci%C3%B3n%20sostenible%20de%20pi%C3%B1a%20en%20CR-2011_bib.pdf.

- Quijandría,G ., Berroca J. & Pratt, L. Julio 1997. La Industria de la Piña en Costa Rica Análisis de Sostenibilidad. INCAE. Available in :

http://www.incae.edu/es/clacds/publicaciones/pdf/cen707.pdf

- MAG, 2010. ESTUDIO DEL ESTADO DE LA PRODUCCIÓN SOSTENIBLE Y PROPUESTA DE MECANISMOS PERMANENTES PARA EL FOMENTO DE LA PRODUCCIÓN SOSTENIBLE.GFA

Consulting Group S.A. Available at: https://www.google.nl/search?q=incentivos+para+producion+eclogica+en+costa+rica&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#

- PROAGROIN Website: http://www.procomer.com/contenido/proagroin.html

- Barrietos O. y Chves G. 2008. PROCOMER. Región Huetar Norte: Oferta Exportadora Actual y oferta Potencial de Productos Agropecuarios Alternativos.

- Rossing W., 2010 et al.Project design and management based on a co-innovationframework: towards more effective research intervention for sustainable development of farming systems. 9th European IFSA Symposium, Vienna Austria.

- EOSTA and ICCO, 2010. SUSTAINABILITY OF ORGANIC & ORGANIC –FAIRTRADE PINEAPPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT. ICCO & EOSTA Mission Report. Available at Nature and More website: http://www.natureandmore.com/search?portal_type=Blog+Item&portal_type=Grower&portal_type=Product&portal_type=Standard+Page&SearchableText=ICCO

- Aravena, J. 2005. LA EXPANSIÓN PIÑERA EN COSTA RICA LA REALIDAD DE LOS

PERDEDORES DE LA AGROINDUSTRIA EXPORTADORA DE LA PIÑA. COECOCeiba. Available at: coecoceiba.org/wp-content/subidas/2010/03/pub11.pdf

29

- CANAPEP (CamaraNacional de Productores y Exportadores de Piña) Costa Rica.

Available at: http://www.canapep.com/pina-de-costa-rica/historia

- Costa Rican News Teletica, March 2013 Available at: http://www.teletica.com/Noticias/5108-Asamblea-Legislativa-investigara-a-Proagroin-tras-denuncias-de-cientos-de-pineros.note.aspx

- Dogliotti, S. 2013. Co-innovation of family farm systems. A systems approach to sustainable agriculture. Agr. Systems incomplete!

- Giller, K. E., C. Leeuwis, J. A. Andersson, W. Andriesse, A. Brouwer, P. Frost, P. Hebinck, I.

Heitkönig, M. K. van Ittersum, N. Koning, R. Ruben, M. Slingerland, H. Udo, T. Veldkamp,

C. van de Vijver, M. T. van Wijk, and P. Windmeijer. 2008. Competing claims on natural

resources: what role for science?. Ecology and Society 13(2): 34. [online] URL: http://www.ecologyandsociety.org/vol13/iss2/art34/

- Faure, G and D Meneses, 2002. The Farm in the region Huetar Norte: and evaluation

of actual conditions of the farms of family producers.CIRAD Francia and MAG (Ministry of agriculture Costa Rica.)

- Groot, J. 2013. Analysis and Design of Farming Systems Course, Wageningen University.

- Interview HenkZoutwelle, 2013. Manager Importer and Seller EOSTA, Netherlands.

- Interview Anne Mordhorst, 2013.Soil & More Foundation - She has developed sustainability indicators for Nature & More framework.

- Kellon ,D. et al. 2011. Perspectivas de los productores de piña e implicaciones políticas para promover la producción ecológicamente sostenible de piña en Costa Rica. Ecoagriculture Partners in cooperation with EARTH University. Available at:

http://www.pnp.cr/backend/files/catalogo/4999_Perspectivas%20de%20los%20productores%20de%20pi%C3%B1a%20e%20implicaciones%20pol%C3%ADticas%20para%20promover%20la%20producci%C3%B3n%20sostenible%20de%20pi%C3%B1a%20en%20CR-2011_bib.pdf.

- Quijandría,G ., Berroca J. & Pratt, L. Julio 1997. La Industria de la Piña en Costa Rica Análisis de Sostenibilidad. INCAE. Available in :http://www.incae.edu/es/clacds/publicaciones/pdf/cen707.pdf

- MAG, 2010. ESTUDIO DEL ESTADO DE LA PRODUCCIÓN SOSTENIBLE Y PROPUESTA DE

MECANISMOS PERMANENTES PARA EL FOMENTO DE LA PRODUCCIÓN SOSTENIBLE.GFA

Consulting Group S.A. Available at: https://www.google.nl/search?q=incentivos+para+producion+eclogica+en+costa+rica&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#

- PROAGROIN Website: http://www.procomer.com/contenido/proagroin.html

- Rossing W., 2010 et al.Project design and management based on a co-innovationframework: towards more effective research intervention for sustainable development of farming systems. 9th European IFSA Symposium, Vienna Austria.

30

EOSTA and ICCO, 2010. SUSTAINABILITY OF ORGANIC & ORGANIC –FAIRTRADE PINEAPPLE GROWING FOR EXPORT. ICCO & EOSTA Mission Report. Available at Nature and More website: http://www.natureandmore.com/search?portal_type=Blog+Item&portal_type=Grower&portal_type=Product&portal_type=Standard+Page&SearchableText=ICCO

Annex

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Annex 1. Questionnaires for small producers Target group: Questionnaires for small to medium pineapple farmers (farms 1 – 80 ha, no large Corporations). Rationale: This questionnaire will be used to make an inventory of the current situation of pineapple growers in the region Huetar Norte. Information obtained will be used to structure solutions related to key focal aspects of this research. By analyzing results a farm typology will be developed which helps to learn about each type of farmers and their main issues and concerns. This questionnaire is a first step to identify representative farmers within farm groups that share common farm features. Once such farms are identified they will be used to study farm characteristics and underlying processes more in depth using simulations and other analytical programs.

Interview N° _________________________ Date:_________________ Name Interviewer: _____________________________ Location Farm: ________________________________________

A. General Information Name respondent: ______________________________ Age:_____ Gender: F or M Responsible household: Yes or No How many family members live in the farm? N° ___________________ Female _________ Ages: ___________ Work in farm : Yes or No / Hours:_______ Male ____________ Ages: ____________ Work in farm: Yes or No / Hours:_______ Do you work in another job besides the farm? Yes or No If yes how many hours: ___________ What occupation? ______________________________ Is your mayor income dependent on the farm profit? Yes or No.

B. Farm Specifications 1.) Cultivated land __________________ (ha) / Total land _____________(ha) Plant Density: _______________________________plants /ha Organic Certified / Conventional / Low Input

Crops ha Rented Owned Cost Other Characteristics

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/ha

2.) Livestock Type :__________N° _______________ Feed Source:_______________________________ Type :__________N° _______________ Feed Source:_______________________________ Type :__________N° _______________ Feed Source:_______________________________ 3.) Soils Soil Type: Clay Loam / Clay / Sandy Loam Clay / Sandy Clay Other: Have you ever done any soil test? Yes or No . If yes how often:_______________ 4.) Soil Amendments

Type* S* OA* C* Amount (kg/ha)

Cost /ha

Frequency Method of Application*

Active Ingredients

Other Information (Other application amounts)

*Type: Compost / Farm Yard Manure / Lixiviates/ Liquid Fertilizer or Granulate / Legumes *S: Synthetic Fertilizers. Mark with an X. *OA: Organic Approved fertilizers. Mark with an X. *C: Created in farm. Mark with an X. *Method: Hand Application, Tractor or Fumigation

5.) Do you prepare any compost or home made fertilizers? Yes or No If so what ingredients do you use: _________________________________________________ What kind of storage: Uncovered /Covered Stable / Outside/ Pit Ground /Cement Pile / No pile Other observations: __________________________________________________________________ 6.) Do you grow any cover crops/ legume trees/ legume crops? Yes or No . If yes what kinds: ____________________________________________________________________

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7.) What do you think of your soil fertility? Very Good Good Moderate Bad Very bad 8.) Do you see any difference from now or 10 years ago? Yes or No For: Good or Bad 9.) Since you started planting pineapple as a monoculture do you see a difference or increase in: Soil Fertility: Less / More / Same Erosion: Less / More / Same SOM: Less / More / Same Water Infiltration: Less / More / Same Cash Crops (Pineapple): Less / More / Same 10.) What kind of tillage do you use? Animal tillage / Conventional / Low tillage / No till 11.) In pineapple fields how many passes are done with the machine? Terrain preparation: Input Application: Harvest: Others: Other crops: _______________________________ Passes: _____________________________________ 12.) Application of Inputs

Type*

S* OA*

C*

Amount (kg/ha)

Frequency Method of

Application* Cost /

ha Other Information

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*Type: Herbicide / Fungicide/ Lixiviates/ Insecticide/ Other *Method: Hand Application, Tractor or Fumigation

If only produce pineapple this part can be skipped from questionnaire. 13.) Do you practice any crop rotation or intercropping system with the pineapple? Yes or No. If yes what crops are included in the crop rotation and is there a preferred sequence?

Crop Cropping System* Destiny* Frequency planted

Further Information (Preferred sequence)

*Cropping Systems: Rotated / Intercropped. Explain in further information *Destiny: National Market/ Export / Self Consumption

Do you practice any of the following techniques in your farm? If not give a reason.

Technique Yes No Reason Mulching Practices

Green Manures or compost

Integrating other crops

Crop Rotations

Agro forestry

Minimize chemical input

Create own fertilizer /bio pesticides

Producer Support Systems*

*Producer Support Systems: Working in farmer support groups to share technologies and work together for marketing products.

C. Social Aspect: Networks, Farm Resources and Training 1.) Do you hire any workers? Yes or No. Temporary ___________ / Fixed__________. Temporary For: Planting / Harvesting / Farm Chores

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If yes how many people: __________________. Price paid by hour: ___________________. What is your yield per ha:____________________________ 1st quality (export) % per ha _____________________________ price /ton___________________ 2nd quality % per ha ________________________________________price /ton___________________ What is your cost per ha:______________________________ 2.) Where do you get your technical support and information? Neighbors / Supply Companies / MAG / Other: _____________________________ Have you been part of any extension or training program? Yes or No. If yes please specify: Type of training Times Year & Duration Organized by

3.) Have you ever been part of a technical support group in your community for pineapple production or other crops? Yes or No. If yes, what kind:___________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ 4.) Do you share knowledge with your neighbors? Yes or No. Give an example: _________________________________________________________________________________________________ 5.) Do you form part of any cooperative or producers association? Yes Or No. If yes give names: ____________________________________________________________________________ If no, would you be interest in a project implementation for:

Project Yes No Reason Organic Certification

Selling to external markets like EOSTA. Selling to internal markets like fairs and supermarkets.

Integrating other crops like: lemons, cassava, sweet potato, passion fruit, ginger, and others.

Receiving technical assistance through the process. Working together to implement a new marketing strategy and producer’s

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support system. Being part of a pilot plan, created specifically for producers to convert to organic slowly.

Creating new policies of incentives for more ecological and good agricultural practices.

Supporting a new policy making involving different actors of the chain: retailers, supermarkets, importers, exporters, Government, NGO´s, etc.

New technologies like: legume integration, intercropping, compost, mulching, green manures and crops for self-consumption.

6.) What are the mayor issues you identify in your farm?

Issues Yes No Why do you think it happens Possible Solutions for the Future Soil

Diseases

Labor Intensity

Selling & Distribution

Cost: Benefit

Competition

Quality Standards

Others

D. Market and Distribution

Where do you sell your product? Internal Market or Export.

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If you sell in the internal market, where or to whom you sell your product:_______________________________________________________________________ What price do you get per/kg of pineapple: ______________________________ Other crops: How do you pack or distribute your product: Bulk distributed in your car / Packed in boxes ready for export If you export, do you own or rent a packing station? Yes or No. If you sell to a distributor, what company:_________________________________________ Do you have a contract? Yes or No. Do they give you a fixed price: Yes or No Price of kg/pineapple: ________________________ Are you happy? Yes or No. If No why?___________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________