Developing a New Paradigm for Agricultural Development:
Case Study from Auksuciai Foundation in Lithuania.
(A06-qualset676553-oral)
Authors:
C.O. Qualset* - Univ. of California and Auksuciai Foundation L. Clement - Univ. of California/Auksuciai Foundation
J. Chiles - Auksuciai Foundation L. Ruth - Auksuciai Foundation H. White - Auksuciai Foundation V. Sliupas - Auksuciai Foundation L. Kuklierute - Auksuciai Foundation R. Karosas - Auksuciai Foundation
Abstract:
Lithuania gained independence in 1991 and has made rapid adjustments toward democratic government and market economy. This has caused massive structural changes throughout the country, including agriculture, but the recent election into the EU is a statement to significant progress. Small farms dominate the agricultural landscape and, for the most part, these are minimally viable economic units.
With independence came opportunity for repatriation of family farms to their original owners. This report is about the conversion of a recovered farm to research, demonstration, and educational purposes targeting improved quality of life and economic status for farmers with limited land holdings.
We will attempt to show in this presentation the conceptual and practical aspects of establishing a new paradigm for agricultural development. A US-based nonprofit foundation was established to provide the guidance and resources needed to develop programs that are carried out by a Lithuanian organization, the Auksuciai Farm and Forest Center. Assessment of the potential for such a project was done in 1997 and operations began in 1999. We will elaborate the goals, operational management, and
progress made in the first four years. In addition, we will discuss some of the difficulties encountered as these operations were being done within the context of Lithuanian social ethos and law.
Speaker Information: Calvin O. Qualset, Univ. of California and Auksuciai Foundation, Genetic Resources Conservation Program, Davis, CA 95616; Phone: 5307548502; E-mail: [email protected]
Session Information: Monday, November 3, 2003, 7:55 AM-10:00 AM Presentation Start: 8:15 AM
Keywords: Lithuania; Sustainable Agriculture; Economic Development; Agricultural Development
