Participatory construction of agroecological knowledge: the Alternative Agriculture Center Vicente Nica case, Turmalina – MG

Abstract

The aim of this study is to report a field experience, where agroecological knowledge and
experiences were exchanged, evidencing agroecology as science, movement and practice.
Students of the Nucleus of Multidisciplinary Studies in Agroecology and Family Agriculture
(NEMAAF) of the Federal University of Lavras, learned about the work of the Alternative Agriculture
Center Vicente Nica (CAV) and the experiences of Jequitinhonha Valley’ farmers. NEMAAF
team followed up the organic certification process through the Participatory Conformity
Assessment Body (OPAC) and visited the Agroforestry System (SAF) of a farmer known to
be a biodiversity protector. It was possible to understand how CAV works on construction of
agroecological knowledge among farmers of Upper Jequitinhonha Valley region, influencing
production mode and product marketing, strengthening farmers’ articulations and environmental
protection.