Gliessman, S.R. 1991. Ecological basis of traditional management of wetlands in tropical Mexico: Learning from agroecosystem models. In M.L. Oldfield and J.B. Alcorn (eds.), Biodiversity: Culture, Conservation and Ecodevelopment. Eastview Press: San Francisco.
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| Current Farming Techniques in Wetland Areas by Indigenous Populations: In Tabasco, Mexico, planting takes place on high ground around flood-prone areas in the months of June to December. As the dry season approaches, the water level drops and a second planting known as March planting (Marceņo) begins. During the wet season, a thick layer of marsh vegetation covers the fields and is quickly cut following the receding waters. Seeds are planted in this thick mat of organic material and fire is used to burn part of the organic mat, leaving seeds intact, but killing any weed seedlings or sprouts. The seeds used are from the previous year's crop, which favor fast growth, 2-3 months from planting to harvest. After 2-3 months, the mature maize is doubled over and ears are allowed to dry on the stalk before harvest. After harvest, all crop and non-crop residues are left on the soil surface, contributing nutrients to marsh vegetation the following year. Depending on seasonal rainfall, farmers in these regions are able to change their cropping strategies to guarantee maize yields. Maize yields in this system average 4 times greater than maize yields on lands in the same region that have been cleared and drained for mechanized production. |