Ugesa-Christ Luth., CVP Report Oct 13-2011

2011CVP
Companion Village Project
2nd Visit, Year One
October 13, 2011

Village Ugesa
Pastor John Mhekwa
Companion Christ Lutheran
Attendees 10
Weather for the past month Dry
Reporters Gabriel, Rev. Mang’ulisa and Pongolani

Purpose of the visit
• Measuring demonstration plots
• Delivering rain gauge
Topics
1. Review of the handouts
Together with them we went through the handouts
• 2nd Visit Instructions
• Plot Management FAQs
2. Demonstrations
• Rain gauge
We told them we need to know the annual rainfall record of their area. We instructed them on how to record rain using a rain gauge. One set of rain gauge was handed to the Pastor.
• Plots
We went outside of the church and together we measured the 1acre plot using miter tape. We measured two ½ acres plots, one for corn and another one for beans.

Questions/ Comments from Audience
 Can we use both corn manure and synthetic fertilizers?
Cow manure adds nutrients, organic matter and help in moisture retention. Yes, you can use both cow manure and synthetic fertilizers. Remember to follow recommendation on plying and amount required.
 Why should we plant only one seed per hole?
It is recommended to plant one seed per hole because this way of planting will minimize nutrients, water and light competition among the plants. One seed is necessary in the farm where by spacing from one plant to another is too close.
 Crop residues may attract pests like termites and rodents, why do you encourage it?
Close residues add organic matter and nutrients in the soil. Moreover they help in moisture retention. Crop residues should not be burn but left in the soil to decay and add nutrients in the soil

Conclusions/Recommendations
We told them to clear the land where the plot is location. Preparations should start as soon as possible so that to reduce the weeding frequency when the season starts.