REPORT ON TRAVEL TO CAMBODIA APRIL 2008 BY …ccpmp.pbworks.com/f/Travel+Report+No+1+Apr+08.pdfSavy...

Cambodia Crop Production and Marketing Project (CCPMP)

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REPORT ON TRAVEL TO CAMBODIA APRIL 2008 BY BOB MARTIN

ACIAR Project ASEM/2006/130 “Enhancing production and marketing of maize and soybean in north-western

Cambodia and production of summer crops in north-eastern Australia”

Savy Orm (left) and Chhom Dariya doing the tissue blot immunoassay (TBIA) test for soybean mosaic virus at MJP

headquarters in Battambang.


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ACIAR Project ASEM/2006/130 “Enhancing production and marketing of maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia

and production of summer crops in north-eastern Australia”

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. OBJECTIVES OF THE VISIT.......................................................................................3

2. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY..............................................................................................3

3. PROJECT PLANNING FOR MJP/CARE.....................................................................4

4. STAFF ORGANIZATIONAL CHARTS.......................................................................10

5. MEETINGS.................................................................................................................12

6. SURVEY OF VIRUSES OF SOYBEAN IN CAMBODIA ............................................14

7. MJP ANNUAL WORKPLAN BUDGETS....................................................................19

8. THE MERCK RQEASY RAPID SOIL NITRATE TEST ..............................................21

9. DRAFT JOB DESCRIPTIONS FOR MJP/CARE PROJECT STAFF.........................24


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ACIAR Project ASEM/2006/130 “Enhancing production and marketing of maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia

and production of summer crops in north-eastern Australia”

1. Objectives of the visit

1. Prepare position descriptions, duty statements and organisational charts for integration of project staff in Samlaut (MJP) and Pailin (CARE).

2. Collect soybean seed and test for soybean mosaic virus (SMV) using tissue blot immunoassay (TBIA).

3. Deliver nitrate meters to MJP and CARE and provide training on their use to Lex Freeman.

2. Executive summary

Take-home message: The Australian team members need to “work as one” in Caroline Lemerle’s words when working with the team at the Cambodian end. We must coordinate our visits and activities in Cambodia to avoid causing unnecessary work loads and inconvenience to the Cambodia-based partners. To make this happen, I will schedule 2-montghly teleconferences over the next 6 months. Thereafter we can probably get by with quarterly teleconferences. Position descriptions and duty statements were prepared for a Project Officer and a Subject Matter Specialist for advertisement in Cambodia by MJP. A third position will be negotiated with the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Battambang to be located in Samlaut. Position descriptions and duty statements were also prepared for CARE: two Community Development Officers (CDOs) for crop production and one for marketing and value chains. Organisational charts were drawn up to show where the project positions fit in the respective MJP and CARE structures at Samlaut and Pailin. Annual Work Plan Budgets (AWPBs) were also developed for these activities as well as Field Log-Books for each trial. Project planning at MJP also involved the design of the trials and demonstrations for the Main Wet Season (MWS) in Samlaut: 1. ICRISAT drought resistance groundnut varietal trial (2 sites) 2. ICRISAT short duration groundnut varietal trial (2 sites) 3. ICRISAT foliar diseases resistance varietal trial (2 sites) 4. Legume rhizobium inoculation demonstrations (2 sites) 5. Maize nitrogen nutrition demonstration (2 sites) 6. CIRAD soybean mosaic resistance evaluation (1 site) 7. Long-term tillage and rotation experiment (site selection and establishment) On 17th April, Bob Martin, Lex Freeman, Miech Phalla, Voan Sam El met with Mr Seang Chhoeurth (Deputy Director) and Mr Phon Oudom of the Provincial Department of Agriculture (PDA), Battambang. The purpose of the meeting was to: discuss ways of engagement of Battambang PDA staff on the project; and the possibility of seconding PDA staff to project positions at MJP. The PDA has 2 staff in Samlaut district: Mr Ty Pong Li and Mr Chim Choeurn. These staff have previously been engaged in project work but are both currently available for engagement with ASEM/2006/130. Engagement of PDA staff was discussed and Mr Chhoeurth will discuss with his colleagues. A contract rather than salary support was preferred.


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Lex Freeman and Bob Martin met with Joseph Kodamanchaly and Sharon Alder (CARE) to provide an update on project commencement activities completed for MJP during the past week. The CARE organizational structure for the project staff was sorted out and the budget revised to align with salaries for CDO level rather than Field Officer. The number of motorbikes was reduced from 3 to 2 because of the increase in price from $1,200 to $1,700US. We were also advised that Mr Touch Vann was highly qualified and very keen to pursue post-graduate studies in Australia. Bob Martin will investigate the possibility of Vann applying for a John Allwright Fellowship and also to discuss subject of studies with Vann. The draft duty statements for the CARE project positions were reviewed and changed to align them more closely with the CARE program in Pailin. Lex Freeman and Bob Martin met with Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) Deputy Director Dr Mak Soeun and Mr Khieu Borin (GRM – CamConsult). Dr Soeun provided a copy of the MAFF “Framework for mass media and broadcasting of agricultural technology in Cambodia” prepared by the Working Group on Agricultural Extension Technology Project Support Unit (ASDP). A formal institutional structure has been set up and an Advisory Panel for Mass Media and Broadcasting has been set up. This panel includes the relevant technical departments under MAFF including CARDI. Mr Ty Channa represents CARDI on the Panel. The advisory panel meets every 6 months. Dr Soeun advised that ADB funding could be available for publication. It was agreed at the meeting that Bob Martin will write to the Director DAE (copy to Mak Soeun, Chan Phaloeun) with details of the proposed publications arising from the ACIAR project ASEM/200/109. Seed of soybean was collected for Tissue Blot Immunoassay for SMV and test for soybean mosaic virus (SMV) using tissue blot immunoassay (TBIA). Mr Stephane Boulakia provided seed from 30 soybean lines grown in a varietal trial in Kampong cham in 2007. We collected a further 15 samples from varietal trials and farmers in Samlaut. The seed was germinated at MJP Battambang and tissue blots on nitrocellulose membranes obtained. The membranes are being sent to ICARDI, Syria for completion of the analysis. Nitrate meters (RQeasy model) were donated to MJP and CARE and training was provided to Lex Freeman and MJP staff on the use of the new meter. Problems were experienced in getting the strip in the correct position and this resulted in a number of false readings. The instruments are also delicate so it is suggested that one person be responsible for their maintenance and use.

3. Project planning for MJP/CARE

Early wet season peanut and mungbean rhizobium demonstration The MJP Integrated Family Nutrition Program (INFP) is targeting the poorest families in the Samlaut Millenium Village. In the EWS, this program included distribution of peanut and mungbean seed to 120 families. Families received either 25 kg of peanut seed or 15 kg of mungbean. In total, 2,000 kg of peanut and 600 kg of mungbean seed were distributed. ASEM/2006/130 – Cambodia Crop Production and Marketing Project (CCPMP) left sufficient rhizobium to inoculate 1,200 kg peanut and 800 kg mungbean. Unfortunately, the work plan was not followed and the rhizobium was not distributed with the seed. DAP should also have been applied but was not available in Battambang. The price of DAP has increased to $50 per 50 kg bag and was considered too expensive. The Technology Implementation Procedures (TIPs) have been reviewed and the problem should not occur again. Another 80 INFP families are targeted for distribution of seed, rhizobium and fertilizer in the MWS and it may be possible to use the rhizobium in that program.


ICRISAT peanut variety evaluation Lex Freeman advised that the ICRISAT peanut seed requested by Stephanie Belfield arrived at MJP in early April with protocols included. MJP prepared and planted a plot (one replicate) of 16 treatments for each of the three varietal selections. According to Lex, they did well considering most farmers had already utilised their land following the rather sparse early rains in Samlaut. Rhizobium group P was applied however no basal fertiliser was applied as DAP is currently not available in the NW region. Prices for a 50 kg bag of DAP have been quoted up to $60 in Phnom Penh. There are alternative fertilizers but the N:P ratio is not suitable for legumes. MJP Subject Matter Specialist (SMS) agronomy staff have a busy program and will not be able to diligently collect all crop data required by CCPMP and ICRISAT. They will however maintain the three EWS sites. The MJP AWPB for the ICRISAT trial is shown in Section 6. On 16th April, Bob Martin, Lex Freeman, Mike Clarke and Miech Phalla travelled to Samlaut to inspect the peanut trials and to collect soybean seed for virus testing. We stopped at Sdau market to check the prices and local availability of fertilisers. There was no DAP in stock. This is a problem for the legumes because there is no cost-effective alternative to DAP. Table 1. Fertiliser prices at Sdau market

Price per unit of N, P ($US) Fertiliser Price per 50 kg bag ($US) N P Urea (46:0:0) 32.50 1.41 N/A 20:20:15:1.5 + TE 40.00 4.00 4.00 16:16:0 + TE 40.00 5.00 5.00 16:20:0:7.4 40.00 5.00 4.00 15:15:15:0 40.00 5.33 5.33 DAP (18:46:0:0) 50.00 5.56 2.17

Figure 1. ICRISAT peanut variety trials in Samlaut. The drought tolerance and early maturity trials had good establishment and few weeds (left) but the disease resistance trial (left) was weedy and had poor peanut establishment.

MJP Demonstrations and trials for MWS The trials and demonstrations planned for the MWS in Samlaut are:

1. ICRISAT drought resistance groundnut varietal trial (2 sites) 2. ICRISAT short duration groundnut varietal trial(2 sites) 3. ICRISAT foliar diseases resistance varietal trial (2 sites) 4. Legume rhizobium inoculation demonstrations (2 sites) 5. Maize nitrogen nutrition demonstration (2 sites) 6. CIRAD soybean mosaic resistance evaluation (1 site) 7. Long-term tillage and rotation experiment (site selection and establishment)

Lex and Bob developed AWPBs (Section 6) for these activities as well as Field Log-Books for each trial. 5


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Rhizobium inoculation of soybean, mungbean and peanut demonstration (Legume RH)

Objectives 1. To demonstrate the value of rhizobium inoculation of soybean, mungbean and peanut to

small-scale farmers in Cambodia; 2. To obtain feed-back from farmers about their interest and feasibility of adoption of

rhizobium inoculation. Treatments Treatment No. Crop Rhizobium 1 Soybean Nil rhizobium 2 Soybean Plus rhizobium 3 Soybean Urea 50 kg/ha 4 Mungbean Nil rhizobium 5 Mungbean Plus rhizobium 6 Mungbean Urea 50 kg/ha 7 Peanut Nil rhizobium 8 Peanut Plus rhizobium 9 Peanut Urea 50 kg/ha

Experimental details Treatments: 9 Design: Un-replicated, randomised Plot size: 5.0 * 5.0 m (15 rows of 5 metre length) Spacing: 30 * 20 cm (3 seeds per hole)


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Nitrogen nutrition of maize demonstration (Maize NT)

Objectives 1. To demonstrate the importance of nitrogen nutrition of maize to small-scale farmers in

Cambodia; 2. To obtain feed-back from farmers about the feasibility of fertiliser application; 3. Generate farmer awareness about soil fertility decline and alternatives to chemical fertiliser

application such as growing maize in rotation with soybean, mungbean or peanut. Treatments Treatment No. 1st topdressing1 2nd topdressing2

1 Nil Nil 2 12.5 Nil 3 25.0 Nil 4 37.5 Nil 5 50.0 Nil 6 Nil 12.5 7 12.5 12.5 8 25.0 25.0 9 37.5 37.5 10 Nil 50.0

Experimental details Treatments: 10 Design: Un-replicated, randomised Plot size: 5.0 * 5.0 m (7 rows of 5 metre length) Spacing: 70 * 50 cm (2 seeds per hill)

1 The first top-dressing of Urea is applied when the maize is at the 5 to 7 leaf stage 2 The second top-dressing is applied at late vegetative stage – 12 to 16 leaves.


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Evaluation of 30 soybean varieties from CIRAD (Soybean IV)

Objectives 1. To evaluate 30 soybean varieties from the collection of Stephane Boulakia (CIRAD) for

yield, processing quality and adaptation to upland conditions in north-western Cambodia; 2. To obtain feed-back from farmers about their preference for soybean varieties and feasibility

of adoption of improved varieties. Treatments Trt No. Variety Trt. No. Variety Trt. No. Variety 1 98 C 81 11 Kaiabi 21 Rosa 2 Bonobono 12 Monsoy 6101 22 Sambaiba 3 Carrera 13 Monsoy 8550 23 Santa Cruz 4 CD 204 14 Monsoy 8866 24 Siriema 5 CD 211 15 Monsoy 8870 25 Splendor 6 CD 217 16 Monsoy 9030 26 Tabarana 7 Conquista 17 Mutum 27 Tocantins 8 Emgopa 316 18 Nina 28 Tucunare 9 Flora 19 Perdiz 29 DT 84 10 Jatai 20 Pintado 30 Sbank Lauk Experimental details Treatments: 30 Design: Un-replicated, randomised Plot size: 5.0 * 1.2 m (4 rows of 5 metre length) Spacing: 30 * 20 cm (5 seeds per hole)3

3 Higher than usual planting rate because some of the seed has poor germination % and vigour


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Cropping systems for upland crops demonstration (Systems LT) - Main Wet Season - 2008

Background It is proposed that long-term tillage-rotation demonstrations be set up in Samlaut and Pailin. The sites would be selected during MWS 2008 (see LWPB for details). The experiments would run for 2 years from October 2008. Objectives 1) In upland cropping areas of north-western Cambodia, demonstrate the importance of:

a) Reduced tillage and crop residue retention for preventing soil erosion, improving rainfall infiltration and prevention of soil degradation;

b) Crop rotations for maintaining soil fertility and plant disease breaks; 2) To obtain feed-back from farmers about the value and feasibility of crop rotations in upland

areas of north-western Cambodia; 3) Generate farmer awareness about:

a) The effect of tillage on soil degradation, soil structural decline and soil erosion; b) Factors affecting soil fertility decline and alternatives to chemical fertiliser application such

as growing maize in rotation with soybean, mungbean or peanut. Treatments Treatment No. Tillage Rotation Rhizobium / Urea4

1 Zero tillage Peanut - Maize Nil 2 Zero tillage Peanut - Maize Plus 3 Zero tillage Maize – Soybean Nil 4 Zero tillage Maize - Soybean Plus 5 Zero tillage Mungbean - Peanut Nil 6 Zero tillage Mungbean - Peanut Plus 7 Zero tillage Maize - Maize Nil 8 Zero tillage Maize - Maize Plus 9 Farmer practice5

Peanut - Maize Nil 10 Farmer practice Peanut - Maize Plus 11 Farmer practice Maize – Soybean Nil 12 Farmer practice Maize - Soybean Plus 13 Farmer practice Mungbean - Peanut Nil 14 Farmer practice Mungbean - Peanut Plus 15 Farmer practice Maize - Maize Nil 16 Farmer practice Maize - Maize Plus

Experimental details Treatments: 16 Design: Un-replicated, randomised Plot size: 25 * 25 m (Total area = 1 hectare) Spacing: Maize: 70 * 50 cm (2 seeds per hill) Peanut, Soybean, mungbean (30 * 20 cm (3 seeds per hill)

4 The plus treatment for peanut, soybean and mungbean is rhizobium inoculation. The plus treatment for maize-maize is 40 kg N/ha. 5 Farmer practice is burning, primary tillage, secondary tillage and harrowing.


4. Staff organizational charts

Staff organizational chart - MJP Samlaut

Agriculture Coordinator (Miech Phalla)

Program management

Agriculture AssistantTheav

Governance support Community liaison IFNP coordination

SMS (Phousa) Poultry

SMS (Si Meng)

IFNP coordinator

SMS ( Sohkom)

Pigs

Assistant (Vuthy)

Nursery, tree planting

SMS (Kim Koy)

Nursery, tree planting

SMS (Vandy)

Pulse crops

Project Officer ACIAR

Implementation of ACIAR CCPMP

SMS ACIAR

ITP Cropping Systems

SMS PDA District

Office Samlaut ITP Cropping

Systems

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Staff organizational chart -CARE Pailin Program Manager

(Nem Phal) Program management

Australian Volunteer (Greg Secomb)

CDO

CDO

CDO

CDO

CDO

(Mr Touch Vann) 25% - Implementation of

ACIAR CCPMP

CDO ACIAR

Market, Value Chain

CDO ACIAR

Crop Production

CDO ACIAR

Crop Production


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5. Meetings

Engagement of Battambang PDA On 17th April, Bob Martin, Lex Freeman, Miech Phalla, Voan Sam El met with Mr Seang Chhoeurth (Deputy Director) and Mr Phon Oudom of the Provincial Department of Agriculture, Battambang. The purpose of the meeting was to:

− Discuss ways of engagement of Battambang PDA staff on the project; − Possibility of seconding PDA staff to project positions at MJP.

The PDA has 2 staff in Samlaut district: Mr Ty Pong Li and Mr Chim Choeurn but no office building. These staff have previously been engaged in project work on IPM but are both currently available for engagement with ASEM/2006/130. Engagement of PDA staff was discussed and Mr Chhoeurth will discuss with his colleagues. A contract rather than salary support was preferred. It was suggested that the PDA could implement 4 demonstrations in EWS and 4 in the MWS each year. It was also suggested that MJP project staff focus on the area of Samlaut district covered by the Millenium Village and that the PDA focus their activities in Sung and Ta Sanh communes. The rate of payment was discussed and the European Union ECOSORN project used as an example where PDA staff are paid a flat €12 ($16.80) per day. Full-time engagement would be$336/month or $168/month for 10 days per month. This amount covers everything including motorbike and motorbike running costs. ECOSORN is working in Ratanak Mondul on socio-economics, and agricultural development with 24 contractors and 24 farmer clusters. We were advised that Mr Kath Borin was available and interested in the MJP Project Officer position. Borin has worked with JICA and has experience in project management at the Kompingpouy rice research station. We had a follow-up discussion with Mr Borin on 18th. He is currently working on a JICA project (2007-2010). There is no contract. The project is called BRAND (Battambang Rural Network Development) and involves JICA and PDA. There are three groups: agricultural production, farmer management and farmer organization. BRAND operates in four districts: Thma Kol, Sangke, Battambang and Ec Phnom. BRAND staff have a $50/month full-time government salary and receive overtime ($3/h) and travel allowance from the project. These people could receive up to $300/month. ECOSORN pays €180/month ($286US. A MJP SMS is paid $350/month. Borin said he wants a change but was not happy with the travel arrangements to Samlaut by motor bike. It is not likely that Borin will apply for the position.

Joseph Kodamanchaly and Sharon Alder – CARE On 21st Lex and Bob met with Joseph and Sharon to provide an update on project commencement activities completed for MJP during the past week. We discussed the CARE organizational structure for the project staff, revised the budget to align with salaries for Community development Officer (CDO) level rather than Field Officer. The number of motorbikes was reduced from 3 to 2 because of the increase in price from $1,200 to $1,700US. Sharon Alder thought that the project was going to focus too much on research which would benefit the rich farmers. Many farmers in Pailin cannot afford to purchase land titles. Only 30% of farmers have land titles. There was also concern about demonstration of N fertilizer responses because farmers cannot afford to use fertilizer. However farmers wish to continue to double-crop maize and grow cassava which demand high levels of soil nutrients.. There is an element of catch-22 here


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because the farmers also believe they have fertile soils that will never need fertilizer. We argued that the N fertilizer demonstrations are necessary to draw attention to fertility decline. This then provides the opportunity to demonstrate the value of legumes in rotation with maize to maintain N fertility. These demonstrations go hand-in-hand to provide a clear message to farmers that if they don’t change their practices, their land will become unproductive for cropping. The original CARE proposal was to employ project staff as Field Officers (FO), however, the duties outlined by Bob and Lex are at a higher level and are in line with CDO rather than FO. FOs are paid around $260 per month and CDOs $372. Therefore it was necessary to revise the budget to provide more salary. This arrangement should result in greater capacity development for local community development staff and a greater chance for sustained effort after the ACIAR/CARE programs are wound up in Pailin. An organizational chart was created to show where the project staff will fit into the CARE structure at Pailin. The project staff would report to Mr Touch Vann who has also been allocated 25% of his time on the project. Australian volunteer Mr Greg Secomb would also be involved in activities – mainly through integrating project outputs into the extension programs by updating TIPs. We were also advised that Mr Touch Vann was highly qualified and very keen to pursue post-graduate studies in Australia. Bob Martin will investigate the possibility of Vann applying for a John Allwright Fellowship and also to discuss subject of studies with Vann. The draft duty statements for the CARE project positions were reviewed and changed to align them more closely with the CARE program in Pailin. The revised job descriptions are in Section 8 of the report.

Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) – publications On 21st April, Lex and Bob met with DAE Deputy Director Dr Mak Soeun and Mr Khieu Borin (GRM – CamConsult). Dr Soeun provided a copy of the MAFF “Framework for mass media and broadcasting of agricultural technology in Cambodia” prepared by the Working Group on Agricultural Extension Technology Project Support Unit (ASDP). The following quote is from the above publication: “The development of extension materials for Mass Media Broadcasting is generally an ad-hoc activity. In theory relevant MAFF Departments, POAEs and PDAs are supposed to provide the AEEO with extension materials which are then tailored to relevant broadcast media. However, the AEEO has struggled in the past to obtain information and extension material from technical departments. In most cases AEEO staff have to visit each department and PDA requesting from them the extension materials. These materials which are provided are often technical manuals and reports not suited to extension dissemination and the AEEO has to expend considerable time and resources to create extension messages from the raw technical material”. A formal institutional structure has been set up and an Advisory Panel for Mass Media and Broadcasting has been set up. This panel includes the relevant technical departments under MAFF including CARDI. Mr Ty Channa represents CARDI on the Panel. The advisory panel meets every 6 months. Dr Soeun advised that ADB funding could be available for publication. We left Soeun with a copy of the Field Crop Manual – Maize. Soeun and Borin were very impressed with the quality. They would be interested in producing Khmer edition as well as using the document as a resource for creating other extension materials. It was agreed at the meeting that Bob Martin will write to the Director DAE (copy to Mak Soeun, Chan Phaloeun) with details of the proposed publications arising from the ACIAR project ASEM/200/109.


6. Survey of viruses of soybean in Cambodia

Figure 2. Virus symptoms in soybean in Kampong Cham. Introduction A mosaic virus appears to be becoming more prevalent in soybean crops in upland areas of Cambodia (Boulakia pers. comm.). It is suspected that the virus is Soybean Mosaic Virus (SMV) but this has not been confirmed (Figure 2). SMV is a potyvirus and is believed to occur wherever soybean is grown around the World. It is also the most common viral disease of soybean worldwide and is transmitted by aphids and through infected seed (Figure 3). Virus-infected plants may produce fewer, smaller, and often mottled seed. Infection in the early growth stages has the greatest potential to reduce yield and seed quality compared to infection later in the season. Yield losses of up to 90% have been reported in the United States and the extent of losses depends on the variety, incidence of primary inoculum (in seed), and aphid activity. The symptoms of SMV on leaves are a mosaic pattern of light and dark green areas, yellowing, rough leaves, and curling of leaves. The youngest and most rapidly growing leaves show the most symptoms. SMV may also cause stunting, reduced pod numbers and discoloration of seeds. Infected seed is the most important way that SMV is introduced into a soybean field. Seed transmission of SMV depends on variety and usually ranges from 0-5%. Resistance to SMV has been identified in some soybean genotypes and varieties. Once the virus is in the field, aphids can spread it from plant to plant as they feed. Over 30 species of aphids transmit SMV worldwide. The soybean aphid, (Aphis glycines) which occurs in Cambodia is a vector of soybean mosaic virus. Seeds saved from the previous season should be checked for virus infection especially if seeds from an aphid-infested field are discoloured. Insecticides are not considered to be effective in reducing

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transmission of SMV by aphids. Aphids present at spraying are killed, but the field is quickly recolonised by winged aphids and virus transmission can resume.

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Figure 3. SMV (suspected) symptoms on soybean leaves and seeds and the vector Aphis glycene.

A B

An exploratory survey of soybean seed kept for sowing in Cambodia was carried out in April 2008. The purpose of the survey was to (a) determine if the cause of the mosaic symptoms is SMV, (b) determine if the disease is being transmitted by seed, (c) determine the level of infection in seed and (d) determine if varieties differ in their level of susceptibility. Methods Extension co-operators and affiliates of the ACIAR project ASEM/2006/130 were asked to provide 200g samples of seed kept from on-farm trials carried out in the district of Samlaut, Battambang and in the municipality of Pailin in 2007. Samples were also provided by Mr Stephane Boulakia of 30 soybean varieties that were grown at the same site in Kampong Cham province in 2007.

Thirty three soybean seeds from each sample were placed on folded germination paper in plastic containers. Purified water was added to wet the paper and free water drained off (Figure 4). The containers were sealed and stored at room temperature for 3-4 days or until the radicle was 3-5 cm long. The tissue-blot immunoassay (TBIA) method was used to test seedlings germinated from the samples. TBIA is a simple and cheap method for testing large numbers of individual samples (Makkouk and Kumari (1996). The test involves five steps that can be completed in three hours:

1. The radicle of a sprouted seedling is cut with a razor blade and immediately blotted onto a nitrocellulose membrane. If the plant is infected, the virus will attach to the tiny pores on the membrane.

2. The membrane is soaked in polyvinyl alcohol for one second to prevent the antibody reagent used in step 3 from attaching to the membrane.

3. The membrane is soaked with specific antibody agent for 45 minutes. The specific antibody will attach to the virus on the membrane.

4. Non-specific antibody conjugated to the enzyme alkaline phosphatase is added for 45 minutes. The conjugate will attach to the specific antibody.

5. The enzyme substrate is added and spots on the membrane that contain virus will turn blue.


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Figure 4. Germination container and germinated seedlings. This test is suitable for remote testing because the first step of the test can be done on site. The blotted membranes can then be mailed to the laboratory for completion of the test (Makkouk and Kumari 2008). The nitrocellulose membrane is cut into 5*10 cm strips. Duplicate strips are marked with the sample identifier. Care must be taken not to touch the membrane with hands.

B A

Figure 5. The radicles of the sprouted seedlings are cut with a razor blade (a). Cut roots are immediately blotted on to the surface of a nitrocellulose membrane. A small segment of the radicle was cut and blotted onto a duplicate membrane (b).


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A B

Figure 6. Rulers are placed over the membranes to avoid contact between the hands and the membrane (a). Membranes after completion of the TBIA showing blots with virus present (b). Table 2. Germination % an vigour of 30 lines of soybean grown in Kampong Cham in MWS 2007. No. Variety Germination (%) Vigour6

1 98 C 81 100 g 2 Bonobono 88 g 3 Carrera 76 p 4 CD 204 55 p 5 CD 211 70 f 6 CD 217 76 f 7 Conquista 61 f 8 Emgopa 316 70 f 9 Flora 58 p 10 Jatai 94 g 1 Kaiabi 97 g 12 Monsoy 6101 88 g 13 Monsoy 8550 70 p 14 Monsoy 8866 58 p 15 Monsoy 8870 64 p 16 Monsoy 9030 94 g 17 Mutum 91 g 18 Nina 85 g 19 Perdiz 70 p 20 Pintado 85 g 21 Rosa 70 p 22 Sambaiba 85 f 23 Santa Cruz 12 p 24 Siriema 91 g 25 Splendor 91 g 26 Tabarana 91 g 27 Tocantins 94 g 28 Tucunare 82 f 29 DT 84 33 p 30 Sbank Lauk 94 g A dot is marked with a pen on the membrane after each 5 blots are done (Figure 6). Where seeds did not germinate, an X is marked on the membrane. At the end of the sample of 33, a backslash is marked on the membrane and a line ruled beneath. 6 Germination vigour rating: g=good, f=fair, p=poor.


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Results Mr Stephane Boulakia (CIRAD) left samples of 30 soybean varieties at the Goldiana Hotel on 11 April. Germination of these seeds for SMV TBIA was commenced at MJP in Battambang on 12 April and tissue blots carried out on 15 April. Germination results of this seed are shown in Table 2. There was a lot of variation in germination % and vigour between the varieties. Four duplicate sheets of nitrocellulose were used for the CIRAD tests:

− Sheet 1, vars 1-12 − Sheet 2, vars 13-20 − Sheet 3, vars 21-26 − Sheet 4, vars 27-30

On 16 April, soybean seed was collected for SMV virus testing from 5 farmers as well as seed kept from variety trials in MWS 2007 in Samlaut. TBIA blots were done on 19 April. The A duplicates were mailed to Dr Safara Kumara at ICARDA. Table 3. Germination % and seedling vigour of 15 soybean samples from Samlaut MWS 2007. No. Farmer Village Variety Germ. (%) Vigour 1 Svay Phat Boung Run Hungary 97% g 2 Touch Kim Hung Kantout Local 97% g 3 MJP Mom 3 Asca 82% g 4 MJP Svay Phat 5 88% g 5 MJP PH 5 97% g 6 MJP Mum 6 97% g 7 MJP B3039 91% g 8 MJP B3039 100% g 9 MJP DT84 73% p 10 MJP DT84 64% p 11 MJP Phan Pheak DT84 91% g 12 MJP Mom Red E. 91% g 13 Srey Lim Hungary 94% g 14 Sockha Hungary 88% g 15 Bong Nhiep Hungary 91% g References Anon (2007). Iowa State University Soybean Research and Extension Program. http://extension.agron.iastate.edu/soybean/smv.html Bao S, Wang X, Zhu Z, Zong X, Kumari S, Freeman A and van Leur J (2007). Survey of faba bean and field pea viruses in Yunnan Province, China. Australian Plant Pathology, 36, 347-353. Makkouk KM and Kumari SG (1996). Detection of ten viruses by the tissue blot immunoassay (TBIA). Arab Journal of Plant Protection. 14, 3-9. Makkouk K and Kumari S (2008). In the fight against viruses, knowing the enemy is half the battle. http://www.icarda.org/Publications/Caravan/caravan15/FIGHT/fight.html. USDA (). Soybean Mosaic Virus. http://psi081.ba.ars.usda.gov/SGMD/Collaborators/soybean_mosaic_virus.htm


7. MJP Annual Workplan Budgets

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8. The Merck RQeasy Rapid Soil Nitrate Test

Introduction

Rapid field testing kits such as the Merck RQeasy hand-held instrument and Reflectoquant nitrate test strips now make it possible for soil nitrate tests to be done by the farmer or extension worker in the field or locally in the District or Provincial Office. This opens up the possibility of testing the soil immediately prior to planting the crop and more accurately determining the crop’s nitrogen fertiliser requirements. This procedure can also be used to identify low - and high-fertility sites for location of experiments and for characterisation of experimental sites.

The RQeasy reflectometer is an easy way to measure soil nitrate levels. The instrument can be used with test strips for measurement of different ranges of nitrate levels. We are using test strips that measure nitrate in the range 3-90 mg/L. The code for this strip is 777. It is essential that this code is entered on the machine.

Display

On/Off button

Buttons for operating the instrument

Set button

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Figure 1. Operating elements of RQeasy Nitrat

Taking the soil sample from the field 1. Select a field which is planned for a trial.

2. Fill out the field data sheet with the sample number, date, farmer, location and soil details. Complete the farmer questionnaire about cropping history, soil fertility, fertiliser use etc.

3. Label a plastic bag with the sample number or identifier.

4. You need to take at least 5 soil samples in the field. The best way to do this is to take samples in a W pattern across the field. Choose a starting point a few metres in from the edge of the field and take a sample. Make sure the samples are at least 10 metres apart and that the W covers most of the area of the field.

5. Tie the bag and keep in a cool dry place until time of soil analysis. Each field requires a new bag which should be labelled with the sample number and date. Thoroughly mix the soil in the bucket and ensure there are no clods remaining.

Preparing the soil sample for analysis 1. Using an electronic balance weigh 50 g of the soil into a plastic jar with lid. Alternatively

measure a 50 mL volume of soil.

Strip adapter

Test-strip zone Instrument cover

Measurement optics

Battery


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2. Add 100ml of distilled water.

3. Ensuring that the lids are firmly in place, vigorously shake jars intermittently for 5 minutes.

4. Allow jars to sit for approximately half an hour to allow soil to settle from suspension.

5. Using syringe draw up approximately 10-15 ml of the soil solution.

Measurement if nitrate 1. Press the On/Off button to switch the RQeasy Nitrat instrument on. The instrument runs a

display test for approx. 2 seconds; all symbols appear on the display.

2. After 2 seconds the three-digit code number (777) appears. If (---) appears, the code will need to be re-entered (see instruction manual page 28).

3. When the test-strip symbol begins to flash on the screen, take an unused test-strip from the tube and re-close the tube.

4. Gently press the part of the strip adapter facing the display and insert the test-strip into the adapter with the reaction pads facing down. Don’t move the test strip during the measurement.

5. The instrument measures the blank value and the reaction time of 60 seconds appears on the display.

6. When the flashing drop symbol appears on the display, remove the test-strip from the display press either the or arrow button to start the reaction time.

7. At the same time dispense 3-4 drops of the clear soil solution from the syringe and leave for 2 seconds. Shake the strip to remove excess liquid and immediately insert the test strip all the way into the strip adapter with the reaction zone face-down. Don’t move the strip during the measurement.

8. Once the measurement is completed the result is shown on the display as mg/L nitrate and is automatically stored.

9. Record the result then discard strip and filter.

10. Remove the test-strip from the meter and press the On/Off button to switch the instrument off.

11. The next measurement is started by switching the instrument on again.

12. Wash syringe by drawing up distilled water and discarding rinsate. Repeat this 2-3 times.

13. Using syringe draw up approximately 10-15 ml of solution from soil solution and repeat the process with the next sample.

Saving results

Always write down the result on a data sheet after reading.

The RQeasy also automatically stores the result together with the date and time of measurement. Up to 250 results can be stored.

Results can be displayed as follows: 1. Press the On/Off button to switch the instrument on. The instrument runs a display test

for approx. 2 seconds.

2. Press the arrow button and keep it depressed. The display shows the MEM symbol, the last result stored and the number of the memory position 001.

3. By releasing the arrow button the display changes and now shows the result together with the date and time.


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4. By pressing either the or arrow button again the display changes to the next memory position. By keeping the arrow button depressed the display moves from one memory position to the next in sequence. Releasing the arrow button shows the corresponding result, always together with the date and time.

Keeping the instrument clean

The test strip zone should be cleaned regularly with water using a fluff-free cloth. This should be done at the end of the set of readings and before commencement of a new set of readings. Also clean the test-strip zone after unusually high or suspect readings. Please follow the following cleaning procedure:

1. Always remove the cover of the instrument before cleaning.

2. Clean the instrument cover, especially the window over the measurement optics, with water and a fluff-free cloth.

3. Completely dry the cover, replace it on the instrument and close it by gently clicking it in place.

4. Don’t ever touch the measurement optics with bare fingers. Take care to prevent the optics being scratched.

Important: Take care to prevent moisture entering the instrument. Don’t expose the instrument to excessive heat, cold or air humidity – store in a dry place.

Demonstration of the RQeasy Rapid Soil Nitrate Test

Two RQeasy nitrate meters were purchased in Australia and donated to MJP and CARE. A protocol for use of the new RQeasy units was prepared (Section 7). On 18th April, Bob Martin demonstrated the RQeasy rapid soil nitrate test to MJP staff. Mr Kath Borin translated and facilitated the training. The three soil samples collected from the peanut trial sites in Samlaut were used and results are presented in Table 4. Table 4. Soil nitrate and pH at the Samlaut ICRISAT peanut trial sites in Kantaut village

Farmer NO3 (mg/L) pH

Mr Touch Kim Heung 86 6.0

Ms Suny Phat 130 6.5

Mr Chet Sokha 86 6.5

We had trouble getting the strips in the right position in the meter and this could have been the cause of numerous false readings. It is recommended that one person at MJP/CARE be responsible for use of the meters to ensure accurate readings and to avoid damage to the instruments.


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9. Draft job descriptions for MJP/CARE project staff

POSITION STATEMENT

TITLE

Subject Matter Specialist (Cropping Systems)

LOCATION

Samlaut district, Battambang

TYPE OF CONTRACT

Full time 3 years subject to review after 3 months and satisfactory performance.

DESCRIPTION The Maddox Jolie Pitt Foundation (MJP) is dedicated to eradicating extreme rural poverty, protecting natural resources and conserving wildlife. MJP promotes sustainable rural economies that directly contribute to the health and vitality of communities, wildlife and forests. MJP’s primary focus is on protection of the Samlaut National Park (Samlaut Protected Area), an area that contains most of the region’s biodiversity: forests, freshwater ecosystems, and endangered species. MJP’s operations have expanded into reforestation, community protection, park management and integrated rural development (UN Millennium Development Goals). MJP is a partner in the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Cambodia Crop Production & Marketing Project (CCPMP). The aim of the project is to improve the functioning of the production – marketing system for maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia as a key to increasing cash income, sustainable growth and poverty reduction for smallholder farmers. Specific objectives of the project are:

1. To enhance the adoption of improved technologies and practices for production of upland crops by integrating agronomic, economic, environmental and social factors.

2. To improve post-harvest management, communications along the value chain for maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia.

In order to implement the above programs, MJP is looking for a dynamic qualified Cambodian national to fill the position of Subject Matter Specialist (Cropping Systems) based in Samlaut district Battambang.

DUTIES − Provide technical assistance for the implementation of on-farm trials, farmer field days and

workshops to validate and adapt improved technologies and practices for production of upland crops.

− Collate information for inclusion in Technology Implementation Procedures (TIPs) regarding local best-practice production of upland crops (maize, soybean, peanut, mungbean).

− Provide assistance to the CCPMP Project Officer on the procurement of inputs (eg certified seed, rhizobium inoculum, starter fertiliser) for inclusion in crop production TIPs and prepare crop demonstration kits for distribution to farmers.

− Provide technical support to Department of Agriculture (PDA) staff in the Samlaut district.

− Assist with the production of education, training and extension resource materials in Khmer language.

− Provide support to the CCPMP socio-economic and value chain teams.


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REQUIREMENTS − Diploma in agriculture or similar field or at least 3 years experience in technical support for

projects in rural and agricultural development environments.

− Demonstrated knowledge of agronomy of upland crops, production methods and farming systems.

− Ability to implement field experiments including data collection, recording and management.

− Good communication, documentation and training skills.

− Demonstrated command of English and Khmer languages.

− Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving skills.

− Ability to work in a team, experience in teamwork desired.

− Experience working for multi-partner, multi-donor projects is preferred.

APPLICATION INFORMATION

Interested candidates are requested to submit a covering letter and a detailed CV to the address below or send via e-mail. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview. MJP Asia is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates will be selected based on merit. Women and persons with an ethnic minority background are encouraged to apply.

CLOSING DATE 5:00 pm Friday, May 30th, 2008 CONTACT DETAILS

Maddox Jolie Pitt (MJP) Group #02, Rumcheck4 Village, Rotanak Commune, Battambang, Kingdom of Cambodia. Phone: +855 53 730 171 Fax: +855 53 730 171 Email: [email protected]


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POSITION STATEMENT

TITLE

Community Development

LOCATION

Municipality of Pailin

TYPE OF CONTRACT


DESCRIPTION CARE is one of the world’s largest emergency relief and development organizations, currently operating in more than 80 countries. CARE is non-political and non-sectarian. CARE is currently implementing projects in Pailin with a focus on farming systems and is a partner in the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Cambodia Crop Production & Marketing Project (CCPMP). The aim of the project is to improve the functioning of the production – marketing system for maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia as a key to increasing cash income, sustainable growth and poverty reduction for smallholder farmers. Specific objectives of the project are:



In order to implement the above programs, CARE is looking for dynamic qualified Cambodian nationals to fill 2 positions of Subject Matter Specialist based in the municipality of Pailin.

DUTIES − Implement on-farm demonstrations, farmer field days and workshops to validate and adapt

improved technologies and practices for production of upland crops.

− Provide advice to farmer associations and commune councils on improved varieties, rhizobium inoculation, tillage and soil management for upland crop production.

− Provide advice to farmer associations and commune councils on local best-practice production of upland crops (maize, soybean, peanut, mungbean).

− Provide technical support to CARE and Department of Agriculture staff in the municipality of Pailin.

− Collate information for inclusion in Technology Implementation Procedures (TIPs

− Assist with the production of education, training and extension resource materials in Khmer language.


− Work with Pailin farmer associations to evaluate options and alternative technologies for better access by farmers to marketing information.

REQUIREMENTS − Degree or Diploma in agriculture or rural development.

− At least 2 years experience in working for rural development.


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− Demonstrated knowledge of agronomy of upland crops, production methods and farming systems.

− Ability to implement field experiments including data collection, recording and management.

− Proven understanding of the participatory process.

− Good planning, supervisory, communication, and interpersonal skills.


− Good English language & computer skills (MS word & Excel).



Applicants must supply a CV and a statement addressing each selection criterion. The statement must demonstrate the applicant’s experience and knowledge of each criterion, be concise, and not exceed two (2) pages. This statement is not a cover letter. Applicants that do not provide a statement addressing the selection criteria described above will not be considered. Interested candidates should submit the documentation outlined above to the address below.

CARE Cambodia is an equal opportunity employer and the successful candidate will be selected based on merit. Only short- listed candidates will be contacted for interview. Women are encouraged to apply. Detailed job descriptions of the positions are available at the CARE Cambodia office (see below).

CLOSING DATE 5:00 pm Friday, May 30th, 2008 SUBMIT APPLICATION TO

RDP Recruitment CARE Cambodia House 52, Street 352, Beng Keng Kang I, Khan Chamkar Mon

Tel: 023 215 267, Fax: 023 426 233, or E-mail: [email protected]


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POSITION STATEMENT

TITLE

Community Development Officer (Marketing)

LOCATION

Municipality of Pailin

TYPE OF CONTRACT


DESCRIPTION CARE is one of the world’s largest emergency relief and development organizations, currently operating in more than 80 countries. CARE is non-political and non-sectarian. CARE is currently implementing projects in Pailin with a focus on farming systems and is a partner in the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Cambodia Crop Production & Marketing Project (CCPMP). The aim of the project is to improve the functioning of the production – marketing system for maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia as a key to increasing cash income, sustainable growth and poverty reduction for smallholder farmers. Specific objectives of the project are:



In order to implement the above programs, CARE is looking for a dynamic qualified Cambodian national to fill the position of Community Development Officer (Marketing) (1 position) based in the municipality of Pailin.

DUTIES − Work with Pailin farmer associations to evaluate options and alternative technologies for

better access by farmers to marketing information.

− Facilitate linkages between farmer associations and appropriate financial services such as savings and access to micro-credit groups.

− Provide feed-back to farmer associations and commune councils on processing quality standards.

− Provide advice to farmer associations and commune councils on on-farm and post harvest management to achieve processing standards.

− Provide advice to farmers through the farmer associations and commune councils on purchase, selection and storage of quality seed for sowing

− Provide technical support to CARE and Department of Agriculture staff in the municipality of Pailin.

− Assist with the development of education, training and extension resource materials in Khmer language.


REQUIREMENTS − Degree or Diploma in agriculture, engineering or rural development.

− At least 2 years experience in working for rural development.


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− Demonstrated knowledge of factors affecting post-harvest quality of cash crops.

− Demonstrated knowledge of crop management options to reduce post-harvest losses.

− Ability to implement field demonstrations including data collection, recording and management.

− Proven understanding of the project cycle and participatory process.

− Good planning, supervisory, communication, and interpersonal skills.


− Good English language & computer skills (MS word & Excel).



Applicants must supply a CV and a statement addressing each selection criterion. The statement must demonstrate the applicant’s experience and knowledge of each criterion, be concise, and not exceed two (2) pages. This statement is not a cover letter. Applicants that do not provide a statement addressing the selection criteria described above will not be considered. Interested candidates should submit the documentation outlined above to the address below.

CARE Cambodia is an equal opportunity employer and the successful candidate will be selected based on merit. Only short- listed candidates will be contacted for interview. Women are encouraged to apply. Detailed job descriptions of the positions are available at the CARE Cambodia office (see below).

CLOSING DATE 5:00 pm Friday, May 30th, 2008 SUBMIT APPLICATION TO

RDP Recruitment CARE Cambodia House 52, Street 352, Beng Keng Kang I, Khan Chamkar Mon

Tel: 023 215 267, Fax: 023 426 233, or E-mail: [email protected]


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POSITION STATEMENT

TITLE

Project Officer (Crop Production & Marketing)

LOCATION

Samlaut district, Battambang

TYPE OF CONTRACT


DESCRIPTION The Maddox Jolie Pitt Foundation (MJP) is dedicated to eradicating extreme rural poverty, protecting natural resources and conserving wildlife. MJP promotes sustainable rural economies that directly contribute to the health and vitality of communities, wildlife and forests. MJP’s primary focus is on protection of the Samlaut National Park (Samlaut Protected Area), an area that contains most of the region’s biodiversity: forests, freshwater ecosystems, and endangered species. MJP’s operations have expanded into reforestation, community protection, park management and integrated rural development (UN Millennium Development Goals). MJP is a partner in the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) Cambodia Crop Production & Marketing Project (CCPMP). The aim of the project is to improve the functioning of the production – marketing system for maize and soybean in north-western Cambodia as a key to increasing cash income, sustainable growth and poverty reduction for smallholder farmers. Specific objectives of the project are:



In order to implement the above programs, MJP is looking for a dynamic qualified Cambodian national to fill the position of Project Officer for CCPMP based in Samlaut district Battambang.

DUTIES − Implementation of on-farm trials, farmer field days and workshops to validate and adapt

improved technologies and practices for production of upland crops.

− Design of field experiments, data collection, data management, statistical analysis, writing reports and publication of results.

− Provide information for inclusion in Technology Implementation Procedures (TIPs) regarding local best-practice production of upland crops (maize, soybean, peanut, mungbean).

− Provide advice to the Agriculture Coordinator on the procurement of inputs (eg certified seed, rhizobium inoculum, starter fertiliser) for inclusion in crop production TIPs and prepare crop demonstration kits for distribution to farmers.

− Supervision of project support staff and negotiation of contracts with Department of Agriculture (PDA) staff in the Samlaut district.

− Production of education, training and extension resource materials in Khmer language.



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REQUIREMENTS − University degree in agricultural science or similar field or at least 5 years experience in

managing a similar position for projects in rural and agricultural development.

− Detailed extensive knowledge of agronomy of upland crops, production methods and farming systems.

− Ability to design and implement field experiments including data management and statistical analysis.

− Good communication, documentation and training skills.

− Demonstrated command of English and Khmer languages.



− Experience working for multi-partner, multi-donor projects is preferred.


Interested candidates are requested to submit a covering letter, a detailed CV and relevant technical reports to the address below or send via e-mail. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview. MJP Asia is an equal opportunity employer. Candidates will be selected based on merit. Women and persons with an ethnic minority background are encouraged to apply.

CLOSING DATE 5:00 pm Friday, May 30th, 2008 CONTACT DETAILS

Maddox Jolie Pitt (MJP) Group #02, Rumcheck4 Village, Rotanak Commune, Battambang, Kingdom of Cambodia. Phone: +855 53 730 171 Fax: +855 53 730 171 Email: [email protected]


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