What is the contribution of local knowledge to re-direct the research about the effect of roots in control of erosion, carbon sequestration, and re-distribution of water in the soil?

Résumé

To include the logic of producers in research and knowledge transfer is key for the adoption of good practices for agroecosistem´s management. In order to know the producer´s perception about the traits of roots and the management practives to reduce soil erosion, sequester carbon, and re-distribute water in the soil we did a rural rapid appraisal in two coffee areas of Costa Rica, as part of the project Ecosfix (Ecosystem Services of root, soil and carbon fixation).The main practices linked with the reduction of erosion in the soil were: weeds management(25%), drainage (21%), and reforestation (21%); with carbon sequestration: incorporation of crop and trees residues (46%), incorporation of organica matter (22%) y trees management for organic matter (14%); and, with the re-distribution of water in the soil:reforestation (18%), drainage (17%) and alive barriers (13%). It is clear the importance of the soil to produce, but not for carbon sequestration. The soil erosion´s control is perceived clearly, but not the water redistribution in the soil by the roots. It must re-use the practices already adopted and make the corresponding link with ecosystemic services not yet perceived, to provide training and financial support in order to get a better adoption of good practices of agroecosystem management.