CNFR and the Agroecology Network continue the participatory assessment of plant genetic resources of forage and fruit trees with the support of ITPGRFA

This article highlights the continuation of participatory plant genetic resource assessment activities in Uruguay under the project “Regional articulation for access to and use of plant genetic resources adapted to the family production systems of Bolivia, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay.” Financed through the Fifth Cycle of the Benefit-sharing Fund of the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, the regional project is implemented by COPROFAM and five affiliated organizations. In Uruguay, the CNFR and the Agroecology Network are working with family farmers and national research institutions to evaluate and multiply improved and locally adapted varieties of forage species and deciduous fruit trees. Building on work initiated in 2019, the current phase introduces new rootstocks, white clover varieties and native forage species, including Bromus and Paspalum. Activities include establishing and monitoring evaluation plots, multiplying and harvesting seeds, producing agroecological seedlings, managing pests, restoring degraded soils and conducting training workshops and field days. The initiative promotes farmer participation, agroecological production and the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources while strengthening knowledge exchange at the local, national and regional levels.