Organic agriculture in the municipality of Alta Floresta-MT: case study on family based properties

Abstract

Family farming has distinct characteristics in their organization and reproduction, such as the use of labor, family labor, the smallest territorial dimension of the plant and crop diversity. Organic agriculture has great potential for family farms, establishing more harmonious relationships between natural ecosystems and agricultural activities. In this context, this paper aims to study five units of organic farming family based in the municipality of Alta Floresta, state of Mato Grosso, making the general characterization of it and trying to identify the reality and the difficulties faced by these farmers. Data were made from semi-structured interviews and observation. It was found that the lack of technical assistance, the lack of access to rural credit facilities and lack of family labor are limiting factors that directly interfere with the management of agroecosystems. Furthermore, the great diversity of species managed is a key success factor in seeking and maintaining the stability of agroecosystems.

Keywords

• agroecology
• family farming
• sustainable rural
• development