Transição produtiva para implantação de sistemas agroflorestais na agricultura familiar em Tomé-Açu: estudo de caso na comunidade de Santa Luzia – PA

Abstract

The traditional use of slash and burn by family farmers in the Amazon, especially in Tomé-Açu between 1947 and 1968, was boosted by the introduction of large-scale cultivation of black pepper (Piper nigrum) with the arrival of Japanese immigrants in the 1930s, transforming the region into a production center for export. However, global competition and fusarium wilt (Fusarium spp) caused a financial crisis, affecting family farmers dependent on this crop. In response, Japanese producers had to modify their forms of production, and Agroforestry Systems (SAFs) were one alternative, representing a significant change in the municipality's agricultural practice towards more sustainable and diversified models. The focus of this study is to understand the productive transition process of four family farmers in Santa Luzia, Tomé- Açu, Pará, in order to understand how their properties have changed with the introduction of SAFs. To this end, questionnaires, photographic records and multitemporal analysis of the properties using QGIS software were applied. The results showed that the creation of APRAFAMTA was fundamental in disseminating knowledge about SAFs, facilitating the inclusion of farmers in public policies such as the PNAE and PAA, and expanding marketing channels. In addition, the four families studied abandoned pepper monoculture in favor of SAFs, contributing to sustainable production, with a diversity of species and productive arrangements within their systems, which makes it possible to guarantee income and food throughout the year, not just depending on a single crop. However, there are still challenges, such as difficulties with bank financing and few direct marketing channels, even with the association's introduction to the market, which makes them dependent on middlemen. The conclusion is that the transition to SAFs has been crucial in guaranteeing diversified production, food security and sovereignty for the families, promoting greater autonomy and resilience in the face of market challenges, as well as improving the quality of life and structure of the properties.