Nurturing Agricultural Resilience Amid Climate Challenges
As Nepal grapples with the intricate challenges of climate change, New Growth takes proactive measures to ensure agricultural resilience. Their approach involves a deep understanding of Nepal’s diverse climates, anticipating the impact on staple crops such as maize and wheat. To mitigate risks, New Growth diversifies crop production and focuses on income-generating crops like cardamom and ginger, contributing to both food security and economic stability.
Recognizing the importance of fruit and nut trees, well-adapted to the region, New Growth actively promotes their role in enhancing ecological diversity and establishing robust ecosystems capable of withstanding the challenges of a changing climate. In addition, the organization initiates orchard creation programs, donating fruit and nut trees to local farmers through a cooperative framework. This not only aids in landslide prevention and biodiversity restoration but also serves as a sustainable source for future income.
Beyond crops, the organization advocates for diversified income streams, encouraging practices like micro forest enterprises and cultivating high-value crops. This multifaceted approach ensures sustained livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable farmers, even in the face of disruptions caused by extreme weather events.
New Growth places a strong emphasis on organic practices, fostering a commitment to eco-friendly farming. They advocate for the adoption of simple technologies that not only ease the workload for farmers but also contribute to sustainable and climate-resilient agricultural practices. By supporting resilient crop varieties and investing in research and development, the organization actively engages in planting trials, aiming to identify crops that can thrive in evolving climatic conditions.
Educational outreach and farmer training are central to New Growth’s strategy, providing farmers with essential knowledge and tools to navigate evolving agricultural landscapes. Infrastructure enhancements, encompassing the adoption of organic methods, bio-pest control, and improved growing systems, underscore their dedication to constructing a robust agricultural foundation resilient to change.
In summary, New Growth’s comprehensive and diversified approach, including orchard creation, offers hope to Simthali in the face of climate challenges. By addressing climate change through strategic crop choices, diversified income sources, organic practices, and community involvement, they pave the way for a resilient and prosperous agricultural landscape.
The lack of infrastructure, particularly roads, poses a significant obstacle to commercializing fruit and nut trees and supporting incomes in Simthali.
New Growth, in collaboration with partners like Planta mi Arbol, guides farmers away from daily wages toward market confidence, providing essential training for resilience in the face of evolving markets and climate change affecting subsistence farming.
The collection of 5000 wild walnuts marks the beginning of their planting program in 2024 sponsored by Planta mi Arbol, serving as a cornerstone of a biodiversity replanting initiative. This effort fosters environmental sustainability and nurtures local community resources, contributing to both people and nature. These trees not only support the community’s nutrition but also provide avenues for sustainable income.
Planta mi Arbol expands this impact by donating 300 softer walnut trees, creating opportunities for small farmers to secure substantial future income. This contribution is complemented by training programs, ensuring farmers are well-equipped to navigate the changing landscape of local agriculture.
Collaborative efforts are underway to explore the potential of walnut oil for future markets, with plans to integrate walnuts into all community forest schemes. As Nepal shapes its development vision, the integration of rural populations into a productive economy takes precedence. The story of walnuts in Simthali mirrors the broader challenges and opportunities in rural Nepal. With strategic investments, infrastructure development, climate-resilient agriculture, and a commitment to diversified, sustainable practices, Simthali unlocks its true potential—one walnut at a time.