Agricultural extension linked to natural conditions and markets

With its diverse topography and distinct climatic zones and sub-ecological regions, Son La has significant potential for developing agriculture by diversifying crops and livestock. However, to effectively tap into this potential, the implementation of agricultural extension models must be based on meticulous research, surveys, and evaluations of natural conditions, soil, climate, and market trends.

Annually, the Son La Department of Agriculture and Rural Development leads the development of a list of provincial-level agricultural extension projects, prioritizing models with high applicability, suitability for local conditions, and scalability. Model implementation is integrated with training, technical guidance, and the transfer of scientific and technological advances, helping people improve their farming skills and adapt to climate change.

Creating a clear transformation in agricultural production

One of the most evident effects of the agricultural extension models is the shift in farmers' mindset and practices. Many households, after participating in the models, have confidently applied technical advances to their production, thereby expanding their scale, increasing productivity, and improving the quality of their agricultural products.

Agricultural cooperatives—the core force in linking production along value chains—are also more proactive in investing in machinery and applying organic farming processes, producing according to VietGAP and GlobalGAP standards. Simultaneously, they are gradually building raw material zones linked to processing and consumption, helping local agricultural products secure a stronger foothold in both domestic and export markets.

The passion fruit cultivation model.

Excellent examples include the organic fruit tree cultivation model in the Mai Son area, the bio-secure cage fish farming model in the Son La hydropower reservoir, and the greenhouse vegetable cultivation model in Moc Chau and Yen Chau. These have yielded high economic returns, helping hundreds of households prosper.

Contributing to sustainable new rural development

The effectiveness of these agricultural extension models is not limited to increasing farmers' income but also contributes to changing the rural landscape. Commodity-oriented and intensive specialized farming, along with the application of technical advances, has improved living standards and reduced fragmented, spontaneous production.

Through agricultural extension activities, the "five-house" linkage—farmers, scientists, businesses, the state, and banks—is increasingly strengthened. Businesses are participating more deeply in the agricultural value chain, from supplying inputs to ensuring market outlets, which provides stability for producers.

Furthermore, agricultural extension models are an effective tool for communicating and guiding people in implementing criteria related to income, production organization, and the environment—all crucial criteria for building advanced and model new rural areas.

Continuing to innovate agricultural extension content and methods

To ensure agricultural extension truly becomes a leverage for sustainable agricultural development, Son La province has determined it is necessary to continue innovating the content and implementation methods of these models. The focus will be on applying digital technology and smart agriculture, as well as strengthening support for cooperatives in brand building, traceability, and trade promotion.

Additionally, model selection must be linked to practical needs, scalability, and early-stage participation from businesses. In particular, it is essential to leverage the role of grassroots agricultural extension officers in monitoring, evaluating, and making timely adjustments to ensure the models achieve practical effectiveness.

Based on the results achieved, it can be affirmed that agricultural extension models in Son La are not just technical solutions but also tools for promoting a new production mindset, opening up a modern, efficient, and sustainable direction for the local agricultural sector.

Quoc Tuan

Translated by Huyen Vu