Family farm in north of Rio de Janeiro state: identification of traditional management

Abstract

The aim of this study is describe the techniques used in family farming and to identify the occurrence of a possible traditional management in the activity practiced in 5º District of São João da Barra, State of Rio de Janeiro. For the collection of information were carried 50 interviews ethnographic with family farmers through semi structured questionnaires with open and closed questions, participant observation and field diary. Farmers are mostly males with low education. The traditional knowledge of agriculture is taught mainly within the nucleus of family. For the family farm can be used hand tools and heavy machinery. To increment of nutrient in the soil are used fertilizing chemistry and organic and slime of sugarcane. The irrigation occurs by use of artesian wells/electric pump/pressurized hose and sprinkler. For soil rest and better cultivation of crop yields are applied crop rotation and fallow areas which were characterized the traditional management in the region.