HomeEnvironmentFeathered Labour for Philippines Rice Farmers

Integrated rice-duck farming has helped farmers to spend less money on harmful pesticides.

Marga Ortigas
Al Jazeera

Rice farmers in the Philippines have found an ally as they try to protect their crops from pests and the effects of global warming.

Farmers use ducks to help keep the water in their paddies fresh, and to get rid of weeds and other pests that could damage their crops.

Duck manure also works as a good organic fertiliser, which helps to decrease the amount of money farmers spend on harmful pesticides.

Integrated rice-duck farming was first introduced to the country in the early 1990s. However, it has not been easy to convince more farmers to let go of their dependence on chemicals.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2CfRqGq0fo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Un7G9vWQ5i8

 

Al Jazeera‘s Marga Ortigas reports from Bukidnon, in southern Philippines.

Source: Al Jazeera

PDF of scientific article on rice farming with ducks

 

About Dady Chery

Dr. Dady Chery is a Haitian-born poet, playwright, journalist and scientist. She is the author of the book "We Have Dared to Be Free: Haiti's Struggle Against Occupation." Her broad interests encompass science, culture, and human rights. She writes extensively about Haiti and world issues such as climate change and social justice. Her many contributions to Haitian news include the first proposal that Haiti’s cholera had been imported by the UN, and the first story that described Haiti’s mineral wealth for a popular audience.


Comments

Feathered Labour for Philippines Rice Farmers — 1 Comment

  1. Good afternoon. What is the scientific name of rice duck from the above-mentioned? How much did you buy those rice ducks? Can you please leave your email-address or phone number for me where can i give those rice ducks. Thank you for your appreciation.

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