Making the most of available water is key to the survival of farms during an extended drought. Through the centuries indigenous people of the Southwest have developed methods to raise their crops with a limited source of water.
New Mexico State University College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences researchers are also seeking ways for agricultural producers to prosper during drought.
The Western Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education New Mexico committee is sponsoring a free farm walk at a Tesuque Pueblo farm from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Aug. 15 for farmers and agricultural educators to see how blending traditional methods with the latest research can make the most of available water.
The Tesuque farm is combining the use of heirloom seeds from the Tesuque Pueblo Seed Bank with innovative agricultural practices that increase the farm’s resilience, including high tunnel fruit production, water harvesting, solar heating system for greenhouses and vermicomposting.
“Farmers can always learn a lot by seeing how fellow farmers handle questions like water catchment,” said Stephanie Walker, NMSU Extension vegetable specialist.
“The farm walk event will provide a richer experience, as participants see practices unfold in a farm environment,” said John Idowu, NMSU Extension agronomist. “This will be a great opportunity for all farmers who are interested in increasing their resilience.”
Walker and Idowu are co-chairs of the professional development program of the New Mexico WSARE.
Following the free lunch, there will be a community service weeding project for those wishing to participate.
Pre-registration for the walk is required. Register online at rsvp.nmsu.edu/rsvp/farmwalk2018. Individuals with a disability and who need auxiliary aid or service, contact Laurie Novak at 575-646-1715 to make arrangements.