Farmers and Fertilizers: A Socio-ecological Exploration of the Alternative Agriculture Movement in Northeastern Thailand

Abstract

Despite the urgency of reducing the environmental impacts of food production, the public
and private sector continues to promote intensive agriculture methods. Studies show that input
substitution strategies have led small-scale farmers into a cycle of debt and degraded soil
fertility. In Thailand, non-governmental organizations have assisted farmers through organic
extension programs. This research examined the socio-ecological benefits of organic
production to rice farmers through a mixed methods approach. Coding and categorizing of
semi-structured interviews with 50 Northeastern Thai organic farmers’ sheds light on shared
values, perceptions, and actions towards nature. Through grounded theory I discovered the
salience of fertilizing practices as a medium of associations between farmers and nature. A
subsequent phase of structured interviews with 75 members of organic farmer groups
investigated the ways that informants improved soil fertility. Organic farmers perceived
bountiful rice and good health as externalities of nurturing the soil. By engaging in organic
fertilizer practices respondents came to see themselves as part of an extended community of life.
Data analysis reveals that participation in fertilizer groups contributes to improved health, wellbeing,
and the long-term sustainability of organic farms.