We are small farm owners located in the town of Río Colorado. This was reused by a former caretaker in cahoots with a niece in 2015. That same year a Police Criminal Investigation confirmed preparatory works for a subdivision on our property. In addition to intervening in criminal justice and civil action, the case was applied in a documented manner to the then community representative. Seeing that the distribution tasks were progressing illegally, without the Judge being able to stop this criminal behavior despite precautionary measures from the civil jurisdiction, we made many presentations in the Commune. The Secretariat of Municipalities and Communes is aware of all this. It was only in 2020 that the Society was ordered to present the omitted documents, which would have governed the subdivision, saying that the works should not proceed, and that lots should not be sold. At our insistence, in August 2021 the subdivision was closed. The lots continued to be sold, however, and so did the builds. In June of cte. year we argued before the current community representative, urging him to make the closure of the subdivision effective, and to apply legal sanctions. He demanded documentation from us, which was provided. Due to his inaction, we informed him by CD dated 06/14/24 and 09/17/24. The situation is still the same, even more serious. They continue to sell a lot and build. Given the worthy attitude of the governor to fight – from the area of his jurisdiction – the illegal occupation of lands, we make this case public. We will provide evidence at the Government Secretariat.
What are the main benefits of small-scale farming for local communities?
Sure! Below is an imagined interview between a Time.news editor and an expert in small-scale farming based on the snippet of information you’ve provided.
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Maria Gonzalez, an expert in sustainable agriculture and community-based farming initiatives. Dr. Gonzalez, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Maria Gonzalez (MG): Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here.
TNE: Let’s dive right in. We recently came across an inspiring story about small farmers in Río Colorado who are navigating the challenges of modern agriculture. Can you tell us more about the significance of small-scale farming in today’s economy?
MG: Absolutely! Small-scale farming is vital for local economies. These farmers often emphasize sustainable practices and can directly respond to community needs. In places like Río Colorado, they not only provide fresh produce but also create jobs and foster community relationships.
TNE: That’s really interesting. What challenges do these small farmers face, especially in the context of larger agricultural enterprises?
MG: Small farm owners often struggle with access to financial resources, technology, and market competition. Unlike larger corporations, they may not have the capital to invest in advanced technologies or the clout to negotiate better prices, which makes it difficult to sustain their livelihoods.
TNE: It sounds like community support is crucial. What role does local government or NGOs play in supporting these small farmers?
MG: Local governments and NGOs can play a critical role by providing education, resources, and financial aid. Initiatives such as cooperative purchasing or shared marketing can help small farmers increase their visibility and access to markets. Policies that encourage sustainable practices can also bolster their efforts and protect the environment.
TNE: Speaking of sustainability, how are these farmers implementing sustainable practices, and what effects does it have on their community?
MG: Many small farmers are adopting organic farming methods, crop rotation, and intercropping to enhance biodiversity. These practices not only improve the health of the soil but also create resilient ecosystems. As a result, communities become more self-sufficient, which can lead to better food security and healthier lifestyles.
TNE: That’s so encouraging to hear. What advice would you give to emerging small-scale farmers who are just starting out?
MG: I would advise them to connect with local farming networks and engage in education programs that focus on sustainable practices. Building a community around farming is essential. Sharing resources and knowledge can make a substantial difference in their success. Also, embracing technology—such as social media for marketing or mobile apps for farm management—can help them reach wider audiences.
TNE: Those are invaluable insights! Before we wrap up, what do you envision for the future of small-scale farming in regions like Río Colorado?
MG: I believe that if small farmers continue to receive support and embrace innovative practices, they can thrive alongside larger farms. As consumers become more conscious about where their food comes from, the demand for locally produced goods will only increase. This shift could lead to a renaissance in small-scale farming, enriching communities and improving food systems overall.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Gonzalez! Your expertise sheds light on the resilience and importance of small farmers. We appreciate your time and insights today.
MG: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure sharing my thoughts on such an important topic.
This interview emphasizes the key issues facing small-scale farmers while celebrating their impact on local communities. Let me know if you need any adjustments or further information!