Adapting to salinity in coastal rice farming: integrating farmer perceptions with empirical field evidence

Bridging the gap between farmers’ local knowledge and scientific evidence, we examine adaptation strategies of smallholder rice farmers in coastal areas, where salinity intrusion increasingly threatens food security. Drawing on surveys of 200 farmers and 60 field trials in four salinity-prone regions, research highlights a strong alignment between farmers’ perceptions and scientific evidence. Most farmers (58.5%) reported rising salinity, largely due to shrimp farming, and 93% cited salinity and freshwater scarcity as major constraints during the Boro season. In response, farmers adopted salt-tolerant varieties, freshwater irrigation, and adjusted transplanting times. Early transplanting emerged as the most effective, reducing salinity stress during reproductive stage and improving yields. Field data confirmed its advantage over mid and late transplanting. Findings underscore the value of integrating local knowledge into adaptation research and policy, promoting cost-effective strategies. Strengthening such approaches through targeted extension and support can build resilience and contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals.