Empowering farmers and improving soil management through video tutorials
As part of the transformation towards more sustainable agrifood systems, knowledge dissemination and practical training are essential to ensure effective management of soil resources. The Global Soil Doctors Programme, implemented by the FAO Global Soil Partnership, is an outstanding example of farmer-to-farmer education, providing scientific knowledge for improving soil management practices worldwide. Among its many training materials, video tutorials play a crucial role in enabling farmers and soil doctors to acquire the skills needed to assess and improve soil health.
Evaluating soil parameters
A critical aspect of soil management is the evaluation of chemical, physical, and biological characteristics. The video tutorials offered by the Global Soil Doctors Programme cover essential evaluation techniques that help in this comprehensive assessment:
Video Tutorial: "How to measure soil ph using indicator strips"
Languages available: EN | FR | ES | RU
This tutorial guides users through the process of using indicator strips to determine soil pH, a vital chemical parameter that influences nutrient availability and microbial activity in the soil.
Texture: ring method
Video Tutorial: "How to evaluate soil texture using the ring method"
Languages available: EN | FR | ES | RU
This tutorial demonstrates the ring method for assessing soil texture by touch. Soil texture is a key physical parameter that affects water and nutrient retention and cycling, as well as root penetration.
By mastering these techniques, farmers can gain a clear understanding of their soil's health and make informed decisions to enhance its productivity.
From evaluation to action
The real value of these video tutorials lies in their practical application. They can be used as stand-alone tools or integrated into broader training modules to provide practical demonstrations that complement theoretical knowledge. Once farmers and soil doctors have completed the assessment of at least one chemical, one physical, and one biological soil parameter, they can use this data to identify the best practices to improve soil productivity. This holistic approach ensures that all aspects of soil health are considered, leading to more effective and sustainable soil management strategies.
The Global Soil Doctors Programme: a collaborative effort
The Global Soil Doctors Programme exemplifies a collaborative approach to agricultural education. As a farmer-to-farmer training initiative, it not only builds the capacity of individual farmers but also supports national governments, academia and the private sector in addressing the needs of rural communities. This programme provides a robust online platform that caters to a diverse group of users, including policymakers, development planners, agricultural extension workers, NGOs, and private sector entities. By promoting the importance of soil as a vital resource, the programme fosters a collective effort towards sustainable soil management.