Carlos José Recinos’ Journey in Sustainable Agriculture
In Ahuachapán, El Salvador, Carlos José Recinos is more than just a farmer; he is a beacon of change in his community. At 31, Carlos serves as an agricultural promoter at the Tierra Saludable Ameyalli (TSA) training center, where he has been making a significant impact since 2021. His dedication and commitment to sustainable agriculture have not only transformed his own farming practices but are also inspiring those around him.
A Passion for Learning and Teaching
Carlos joined TSA with a strong desire to learn and share his knowledge about good agricultural practices. Despite facing initial skepticism from local farmers, he remained steadfast in his mission. “For some people, leaving crop residues or planting cover crops means being a dirty farmer,” Carlos explains. Many were unaware that these practices improve soil quality and can lead to better yields and higher income.
During his first year as an agricultural promoter, Carlos managed to gather a small group of six farmers willing to adopt these practices. Through field schools and hands-on training sessions at TSA, Carlos deepened his understanding and application of sustainable techniques. He tirelessly worked alongside his group, demonstrating the tangible benefits of implementing good practices on their plots.
Proving the Power of Sustainable Practices
Carlos's dedication paid off. Within a year, the results were undeniable. The farmers saw increased production on their plots, which served as a compelling demonstration for the effectiveness of sustainable farming. “It wasn’t words that motivated farmers to join the program; it was the harvests. Our promoters' plots have to be a beacon. The evidence was clear: production increased,” Carlos affirms.
This success helped change the perception of sustainable agriculture in his community. More farmers began to take notice and were motivated to join the movement towards agricultural transformation. Carlos’s plots became a living example of how embracing good practices can lead to significant improvements in yield and income.
A Family Affair
Carlos’s commitment to agriculture extends beyond his role at TSA. He not only cultivates basic grains like corn but also maintains a coffee nursery. This venture is a family effort, with his children and father actively involved in its upkeep. Together, they ensure the nursery is well-cared-for and thriving.
For Carlos, his family is the driving force behind his work. Their support and involvement provide him with the motivation to continue advocating for responsible farming. “My family is my motivation to keep working and inspiring others to farm responsibly,” he says.
Looking Ahead
Carlos José Recinos’s journey is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge and perseverance. Through his efforts, he has not only improved his own farming practices but also sparked a wave of change within his community. His story highlights the importance of learning, sharing, and demonstrating the benefits of sustainable agriculture.
As Carlos looks to the future, his commitment to fostering a sustainable and prosperous farming community in Ahuachapán remains unwavering. He continues to inspire others to embrace change, showing that with dedication and hard work, it’s possible to cultivate both the land and a better future.
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