Lessons learned from El Nino

EDITORIAL

It may not yet be too late but there are lessons learned worth pushing for in the agricultural sector as a result of the El Nino phenomenon being experienced not only in northern Luzon but the whole country.

In Benguet, provincial agriculturist Lolita Bentres said there is a need to change plans in the planting calendars of farmers. Cropping calendar is unpredictable, she says, hence planting patterns are disrupted.

Farmers are advised to delay the planting of regular crops should there be prolonged drought. Buckwheat which thrives in the province could be cultivated during the dry period. Potatoes and carrots could still be planted during the dry season but not leafy vegetables as these easily wilt.

As always La Nina takes place after El Nino according to the Philippine Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration thus small water impounding facilities should be in place in storing water supply in time for the dry season.

As budget for 2010 has already been appropriated, Bentres said part of the supplemental budget for 2010 will be allotted for the construction of small water impounding project (SWIP).

Planting of trees, a part of good agricultural practice, needs to be advocated according to Bentres. Agriculture co-exists with environmental protection and conservation such as planting of trees which helps in minimizing effects of climate change.

Beekeeping in forested areas should also be encouraged which indirectly helps in conserving the forest according to Bentres. This is currently being encouraged as livelihood activities within the San Roque Dam. Cattle raising should be discouraged, reason forest fires are started among cattle raisers since razed areas are used as ranches.

These are mitigating measures that could be adapted in preparation for the next cycle of the El Nino phenomenon according to Bentres. It is good news for farmers in the northern part of the province even as downpour of rains set in last week allowing them to immediately plant vegetables. El Nino need not be a bane all the time but a time to learn from so proper measures could be set in place before the phenomenon repeats itself.