SOCIOECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT OF FAMILY FARMING THROUGH SOIL MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES AND PRODUCTIVITY

Abstract

Family farming is one of the pillars of food production in Brazil, being responsible for a large part of the food that reaches consumers' tables. Characterized by the predominant use of family labor, family management, and productive diversification, this form of agriculture is essential for food security, income generation, and preservation of the culture of rural communities. However, despite its relevance, family farmers face considerable challenges, especially with regard to soil fertility and inadequate use of agricultural inputs, factors that can directly compromise crop productivity and sustainability. The extension project reported in this work, entitled Socioeconomic development of family farming through soil management and productivity techniques, was developed with the objective of contributing to overcoming these challenges, seeking to promote free technical assistance to small producers, with the help of chemical soil analysis and personalized management recommendations.  promoting at the same time a practical experience for students of the Agronomy course, integrating teaching, research and extension. The selection of producers was carried out through registrations, prioritizing properties with less access to specialized technical services. In total, 22 properties were served. Soil samples were collected in the cultivation areas, whose samples underwent complete chemical analysis, carried out by a laboratory in the region. The parameters evaluated included pH, organic matter, cation exchange capacity (CEC), base saturation, in addition to the contents of essential macro and micronutrients. The results indicated that most of the soils in the region have a sandy texture, which limits water and nutrient retention and favors leaching processes. In addition, significant deficiencies of phosphorus (77.27% of the samples), potassium (55%) and organic matter (100%) were identified, as well as low base saturation values in 37% of the farms. These factors indicate the need for corrections, such as the application of limestone, organic and mineral fertilization, in addition to the adoption of conservation practices, such as green manure, soil cover and crop rotation. On the other hand, high levels of calcium, copper, iron and manganese have been observed, which can cause nutritional imbalances and even toxicity under certain conditions. Based on these data, the students, with the guidance of the professors, developed specific management plans for each property, due to the crops grown, the available resources and the level of technological knowledge of the farmers. In addition, during the technical visits, phytosanitary diagnoses were also carried out, which allowed the identification of pests and diseases and the proposal of specific integrated control measures for each property. In view of this, the extension project had a strong social and educational impact, contributing directly to the improvement of productivity in the properties served. This is because the farmers received qualified technical assistance in an accessible way, while the students lived an enriching practical experience, which brought them closer to the reality of the field and prepared them to act responsibly and efficiently in rural technical assistance. The data analyzed reinforce the importance of using soil analysis as an essential tool for agricultural management. The low fertility observed in most properties demonstrates the lack of specific technical actions for soil correction, which, if implemented correctly, can generate significant improvements in the production and sustainability of family crops. It is concluded that the project fulfilled its role by promoting the efficient use of inputs, adequate soil management and the strengthening of family farming. In addition, it has consolidated itself as an effective strategy for academic training, integration between university and productive sector and promotion of sustainable rural development. Initiatives like this reveal the transformative potential of university extension in building a more productive, fair, and environmentally balanced agriculture, directly contributing to the achievement of SDG 2 (Zero hunger and sustainable agriculture) of the UN 2030 Agenda.