We saw alfalfa powder being produced and packaged ready for sale. Production of bio-fertilisers, pest controls and soil inoculants. She claimed soya bean production was much increased with its use. These were being done on a series of one-hectare plots which we visited. Careful records have been kept showing milk production, crop production, human and animal labour required, fuel expenses etc.
Soil fertility is maintained by compost, green manures and mulch.
We were particularly taken with Juan Jose Suarez whose experimental hectare has four goats rather than cattle. He said these factors led to a high milk yield. The only inputs introduced are molasses and mineral salts. The goats are kept in pens and the remainder of the land is used for growing forage. At the end of our visit Fernando said that he would like to have more links with the UK, possibly some visits to the UK could be organised for training opportunities for the Institute staff.