Transforming Lives -> Agriculture

Knowing something about agriculture is essential to surviving in Nicaragua. A family that knows how to use its land wisely not only has food to eat, but a product to sell. At Chacocente, we teach both traditional and non-traditional farming, which goes hand-in-hand with marketing.

Traditional crops are corn, beans and rice. They are best grown to eat, since in season they fetch a very low price. Non-traditional crops include tomatoes, squash and melons and typically yield a profit. Non-traditional crops can also be eaten to add variety and greater nutrition to the diet. Since these crops are usually grown on a smaller tract of land, an unexpected change in climate, such as a drought, does not spell disaster. They can be watered by hand, if necessary.

We also teach land management, how to preserve seeds, marketing and money management.