Ubay, Bohol - February 18, 2024 – The Agricultural Training Institute - Regional Training Center 7 (ATI-7) led a successful Information Caravan aimed at informing local farmers and stakeholders about the Carood Watershed Model Forest (CWMF) project. The event, held at the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) office in San Pascual, Ubay, gathered 22 members of the Malingin Hills Farmers Association, providing them with insights into sustainable agricultural practices and watershed management.

ATI-7, an active member of the Regional Convergence Initiative (RCI), took the lead in organizing the event to ensure that farmers from the Carood Watershed region were well-informed about the benefits of the CWMF project. The session was designed to engage participants in the discussion of new technologies, including the innovative SALT (Sloping Agricultural Land Technology) farming system and the introduction of the Young Innovators for Organic Agriculture (YIPOA) program.

Andrew Macaambac, the Alternate Organic Agriculture (OA) Coordinator of ATI-7, served as the main resource person during the session. His expert knowledge on organic farming practices helped participants better understand how they could integrate these techniques into their daily farming practices. He was joined by Doris Isabel Racho, ATI's representative to RCI and the Project Officer for the event, as well as Noreen Darunday, who assisted with the facilitation. Jansie Aton, a staff member of the CWMF project, represented the initiative and provided valuable insights into the model forest project.

The discussions focused on the importance of sustainable agriculture in the region, with special emphasis on soil conservation, water management, and the benefits of organic farming in the Carood Watershed. Participants also learned about the ongoing efforts to protect the watershed through the CWMF program and how they could contribute to these environmental goals.

The event not only highlighted the role of ATI-7 in supporting local farmers but also emphasized the collaborative efforts of various government agencies and organizations in promoting sustainable agriculture in the region.

Through such initiatives, ATI-7 continues to lead the way in advancing agricultural knowledge and helping communities adopt environmentally sustainable practices, ensuring the long-term health of both the land and the farmers who rely on it.