Key Project Activities
The SACA project is structured around four major research programs, each comprising a series of targeted activities designed to generate evidence, build capacity, and support the inclusive scaling of Conservation Agriculture (CA) in Bangladesh. Below is a summary of the core activities:
1. Assessing Long-Term Impacts of Conservation Agriculture
1.1 Soil Health and Fertility Monitoring
Conduct soil sampling and analysis at long-term experiment (LTE) sites in Rajshahi and Mymensingh.
Measure changes in soil structure, organic carbon, nutrient availability, and acidity.
1.2 Water Balance and Hydrology Studies
Monitor infiltration rates, groundwater recharge, and irrigation needs under CA.
Use sensors and field measurements to assess seasonal water dynamics.
1.3 Weed, Pest, and Disease Surveillance
Track weed species shifts, herbicide resistance, and pest/disease outbreaks.
Evaluate biosecurity risks and develop integrated management strategies.
1.4 Productivity and Profitability Analysis
Compile and analyze 15+ years of LTE data to assess yield trends and economic returns under CA.
2. Modelling Risks of Alternative Rice Establishment Methods
2.1 Variety Screening for DSR and NPTR
Identify rice varieties suitable for Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and Non-Puddled Transplanting (NPTR).
Conduct trials across Boro, Aus, and Aman seasons.
2.2 Agronomic Trials for DSR Optimization
Test sowing dates, seed rates, irrigation timing, and weed control strategies.
Generate data for APSIM model calibration.
2.3 APSIM Modelling and Scenario Analysis
Simulate long-term impacts of CA and alternative rice establishment using 30 years of climate data.
Assess yield variability, water use, and economic outcomes.
2.4 Landscape-Scale Modelling
Use APSIM to estimate the effects of partial and full CA adoption on groundwater recharge and farm profitability.
3. Continuous Improvement of CA Practices
3.1 Bundled Service Provision Pilots
Co-design and test business models for year-round mechanized services (e.g., planting, harvesting).
Evaluate economic viability and farmer satisfaction.
3.2 Collective Action Pilots (Somoloy+CA)
Form mini-catchment groups to coordinate planting, input use, and machinery access.
Monitor group cohesion, inclusivity, and agronomic outcomes.
3.3 Machinery Trials for DSR and NPTR
Demonstrate and refine mechanized rice establishment methods using VMP and other tools.
Collect data on yield, water use, and labor savings.
4. Inclusive Scaling of CA Knowledge and Services
4.1 Strengthening CASPA as a Scaling Platform
Conduct organizational assessments of CASPA and its 224 member groups.
Develop strategic plans, business models, and capacity development strategies.
4.2 Evaluating Collective Action Models
Conduct case studies on existing Somoloy groups.
Assess inclusivity, governance, and impact on CA adoption.
5. Capacity Building and Research Training
5.1 PhD and MS Fellowships
Support 7 PhD and 4 MS students through ACIAR and KGF funding.
Research topics include soil hydrology, greenhouse gas emissions, acidification, farmer networks, and herbicide residues.
5.2 Training for Farmers and Service Providers
Deliver hands-on training in CA practices, machinery use, and business skills.
Use a whole-family approach to engage women, youth, and marginalized farmers.
5.3 Institutional Capacity Development
Build capabilities of CASPA, extension agents, and local service providers.
Facilitate peer learning, mentoring, and exposure visits.
6. Knowledge Exchange and Communication
6.1 Digital Outreach
Maintain a project website and social media channels for updates and engagement.
6.2 Conferences and Publications
Present findings at national and international forums.
Publish peer-reviewed articles, policy briefs, and training manuals.