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| RICE PROJECT |
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The seed program has extended its research to include the cultivation of rice. The initial objective of this program is to obtain new rice varieties to support the growing demand for improved seeds. Objectives of the Rice Project include researching the factors that reduce crop yields and to generate varieties and technologies that will be transferred to rice producers. Research and Development (R & D) activities for the first stage of this project include the following:
Thoroughly analyze the present commercial varieties available in Central America and Panama. The objective of this analysis would be to identify in the short term the superior varieties with the best agricultural characteristics, milling quality, and performance yields. FHIA has already initiated this first phase of the Rice Project, and is studying 18 commercial varieties presently available in the Central American region. This first phase is being conducted near La Lima, Cortés, and will soon be extended to include a total of three locations. Simultaneously with the second year of testing, the variety with the best results in the initial evaluation will be germinated to develop a commercial seed that will be available in the market by mid 1999.
R & D of other commercial and experimental items. This trial includes two local witnesses and 18 selected items that were recently introduced into the country (10 came from Arkansas, USA; 3 from Colombia, 3 from Nicaragua, and 2 from Panama) and which will be initiated in two places. This study will not only identify the best prototype seeds for the local market, but also will develop alternate seeds that would be made readily available should the initially selected variety demonstrate a reduced tolerance to diseases or develop visual defects during its growth process.
New items will also be introduced to the Honduran market, depending on their adaptive possibilities. The items in this group, include advanced crossed generations and other materials with adaptive characteristics. The items will be initially developed over the next few years, but since FHIA will also develop varieties that are targeted to solve specific problems, these activities will be continued indefinitely.
Agricultural techniques regarding rice. As added support to the cultivation and expansion of rice farming in Honduras (targeted mainly towards small farmers and poor farm land), this project plans to research the causes of low crop yields and determine different possible alternatives to increase them, including: crop rotation, disease control, and general techniques designed to boost production by employing better cultural and handling practices. The overall project will evolve and be shaped by the results of the ongoing basic research.
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