Villa Poppy: A Success Story for Family Farming, Dominican Republic

Villa Poppy in Constanza is a model of success in family agriculture associativity and public policy application, addressing social issues and environmental challenges comprehensively.

Context of the story

In 2018, Valle Nuevo National Park in the Dominican Republic underwent a significant change with the implementation of the Rescue Action Plan, which permanently banned agricultural and livestock activities to protect its biodiversity. Given the local residents' dependence on agriculture, the Ministry of Environment relocated these families to what is now Villa Poppy in Constanza. Surrounded by fertile soils and a favorable climate for agriculture, this community has transformed into an example of sustainable agricultural development. Through a cooperative, 52 families have overcome economic and technological challenges, achieving certification as state suppliers, allowing them to participate in institutional purchases and substantially.

From Subsistence to Sustainability: The Inspiring Journey of Villa Poppy

The Implemented Initiative

The case of Villa Poppy in Constanza is a prominent example of how associativity in family agriculture and the implementation of public policies can holistically transform a community. This success has been achieved through coordinated collaboration between governmental and non-governmental institutions, which have driven sustainable and resilient development. Previously, residents of Valle Nuevo National Park relied on subsistence farming, which pressured natural resources and kept farmers in poverty. With the ban on agricultural activities in the park, Villa Poppy became a refuge for relocated families, offering new development opportunities without compromising the environmental health of the region. Cooperation has facilitated the introduction of innovations such as efficient irrigatio

Sustainable Transformation: The Success of Villa Poppy

The technological solution

The technological solution implemented in Villa Poppy has been fundamental for its sustainable development. With technical support from the FAO and the British Embassy, a weather station was installed, optimizing water use by precisely measuring crop water needs. A drip irrigation system, along with the introduction of new crop varieties, has significantly improved resource use efficiency and agricultural productivity. The formation of the Cooprovipo Cooperative has been crucial, allowing the community to collectively manage production and marketing, reducing logistical costs through the acquisition of a refrigerated truck and improving access to competitive markets. These innovations have not only enhanced the quality of life for farmers but have also established Villa Poppy as a model of advanced and sustainable agricultural development. The cooperative has achieved certification as a state supplier, expanding its reach and securing a stable market for its products, contributing to a more robust and diversified local economy.

“Everything changed when we joined the Cooprovipo cooperative.”

— Nelvin Tejeda Gerónimo

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Type of project

Bioeconomía

Bioeconomy

Results

The impact of the actions implemented in Villa Poppy has been profound, encompassing everything from the environment to the local economy and the formalization of agricultural production. The introduction of a weather station and a drip irrigation system has optimized water use, achieving 90-95% efficiency. The creation of Cooprovipo, a cooperative formed by local families, has formalized production and strengthened community cooperation. This cooperative has become a state supplier and has secured funding for infrastructure that reduces logistical costs and improves product delivery. Additionally, agricultural production has opened up new markets, such as international restaurant chains and national supermarkets, benefiting over 52 families and creating 25 jobs in the community. The support from entities like the FAO and the British Embassy has been crucial for the sustainable development of Villa Poppy, through technical assistance.

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