Growing Trees with the Rural Poor
Dominican Republic, Haiti, Mexico, Tanzania & Thailand
Deforestation is among the major causes of poverty and human suffering around the world. Desperate to feed their families, poor farmers cut down trees for immediate survival, despite the horrible disasters that result from deforestation. Farms become wasteland, springs dry up, flooding and landslides ensue, and the land is utterly depleted for future generations.
FLORESTA’s program of environmental and agricultural education teaches farmers how to care for and restore their land and improve their ability to provide for their families. Water sources and trees are the greatest needs in each of these countries. The simple act of planting new trees reduces erosion, but improves soil quality, contributes to a cleaner, more plentiful water supply, and helps restore and renew regional ecosystems. Farmers increased crop yields provide better income by growing the foods that are in demand. By establishing new tree nurseries and learning innovative agricultural techniques, poor farmers can transform their own economic situation while preserving their land for future generations. In one year, more than 25,000 people can benefit from the work of this agency.
This Caribbean farmer’s nursery is not just a hobby—
it is a precious asset.