Characterization of production systems in rural communities of Estelí, Madriz y Nueva Segovia, North central zone of Nicaragua

Abstract

The agricultural and forestry sector constitutes the base of the national economy, and family food security in rural communities depends on it. The present study consisted of a diagnosis of productive units in rural communities of nine municipalities from the north of Nicaragua, during the period 2017-2018. One hundred and seventy surveys handled in QUALTRICS by Santa Clara University were analyzed with this specialized software, and the variables object of descriptive, univariate, and multivariate analysis were processed. The Productive Units presented areas smaller than 3.51 ha and few larger than 281 ha. 67% of the members of the families were younger than 40 years old (48.86% men and 50.14% women). The families developed strategies to diversify crops and improve food security, and they also carry out activities to face climate change to improve resilience. Were identified 54 tree species, grouped into 25 taxonomic families and conserved in shade-grown coffee plantations. The number of animals, land ownership, water for the home and crops, coffee and forests, social and economic characteristics, problems, and climate change, were discriminating variables to relate the PUs. The families obtain some income from the commercialization of products; as well as salaried work, small businesses, and rental of plots; however, they still have difficulties in ensuring food during the months of June to August.