PROSUCO FRN: Yapuchiri climate monitoring
This solution addresses Planting times, predicting rain and wind in Andes for Farmers, researchers
Problem Description
National forecasts are based on limited weather station data and not relevant to farmers' micro-climates. This is especially true in mountainous environments. In much of the Andes there is a long tradition of using biotic and abiotic indicators including stars and plant blooming, to predict planting dates. However, some of this traditional knowledge is not adapted to current changes due to climate change. Thus a group of Yapuchiris (farmer or sower in Aymara), in collaboration with the Bolivian NGO Prosuco, have been monitoring climatic effects, bioindicators and crop information for over 3 years using a novel tool called the "pachagrama". Data from individual farmers gets aggregated on a centralized database where patterns can be detected and used much like an almanac, which is then returned to the farmers.Building Blocks
Story
This project suggests that not everyone is cut out to be a Yapuchiri. There were many skilled farmers who don't like to share their knowledge or visit with other farmers. It entails a big time commitment, although it also has its own rewards (such as prestige and gifts of potatoes, for example). Observations also show that "no one is a prophet in their own land" and that in general Yapuchiris are more valued in other communities than in their home community.
Sustainable Development Goals
On September 25th 2015, countries adopted a set of goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new sustainable development agenda. Each goal has specific targets to be achieved over the next 15 years. This solution covers the following goals:


Photos
Resources
Organisations Involved
Contributed By
- Maria Quispe, Prosuco
Solution Stage
One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn moreSTAGE | SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED | EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES | RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING | FINANCE REQUIRED | KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED | GOAL |
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Developing and implementing5 | Strong leadership, management, implementation skills |
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MEDIUM |
HIGH | A robust and detailed case developed through formal evaluation and evidence gathering – use of a control group to isolate impact | An implemented and sustainable innovation |