If the species they ask for are among those that we have made available, they are given seeds. If they ask for seeds from species that we do not distribute, they are told which species are available, and may ask for any of those instead. The farmers must always make the initial contact with Eden themselves. Eden collects and distributes seeds to the farmers free of charge. The farmers are also given advice and demonstrations on how to direct seed their species along with the seeds.
Farmers sow by their own initiative.
Their incentives are the benefits the perennials give. The number of farmers direct seeding has increased dramatically over the years, starting with 9 in 1991. Many farmers are now letting natural revegetation occur in their fields as well, due to Eden. You can look at the graph over the number of farmers having direct seeded , at the yearly statistics page, and at the work accomplished page to see further details on this. Ever since Eden was formed in 1985, it has been clear to us that there is no quick fix that could instantly solve the problem of desertification.