Agricultural production in Hani Rice Terraces System and related threats — a case study of Zuofu and Mitian Villages in Honghe County, China

Research on the Hani Rice Terraces System in Honghe County, China, reveals that while agricultural practices vary between traditional and modern-influenced villages, both face threats to sustainability. The study found that Zuofu Village, with its well-preserved ecological state, primarily cultivates traditional rice, whereas Mitian Village leans toward hybrid rice due to modern influences. Both villages exhibit moderate fertilizer use, linked to unique ecological conditions, but organic fertilizer adoption and crop residue return remain limited. Pesticide usage is within normal agricultural ranges, though herbicide application differs significantly between the two villages, influenced by planting structures and labor availability. The research highlights critical challenges such as labor shortages, reduced traditional rice cultivation, and increasing chemical inputs, which require urgent attention to ensure the conservation of this globally significant agricultural heritage.

BAI, Y.-Y., LUN, F., CAO, Z., HE, L., LIU, X.-C., & LIU, M.-C. (2012). Agricultural production in Hani Rice Terraces System and related threats — a case study of Zuofu and Mitian Villages in Honghe County, China. Chinese Journal of Eco-Agriculture, 20(6), 698–702. https://doi.org/10.3724/sp.j.1011.2012.00698