Demonstration and Training Center Update

Mock-up of Project

New Work on the Project, Feb 2013Phase 4

Construction of greenhouse to raise crops in a protected environment

For an overview of the demonstration and training center project click the following link: http://manoamano.org/blog/demonstration-and-training-center-in-el-abra/

Step 1: measuring and digging holes

Step 2: Planting treated posts

Measuring and cutting wooden beams

Step 3: Building the Greenhouse structure

Fitting and nailing the roof

Step 4: Completing the interior structure

Cutting and fitting beams and posts

Measuring and cutting the Agrofilm

Step 5: Placing and fastening the Agrofilm

Cutting protective strips from left-over plastic from ponds and recycling them for use in attaching the covering of the

green house

Extending and fastening the Agrofilm to the roof and sides

Cutting, extending and fastening the Agrofilm to the front panel

Constructing the door

Step 6: Constructing and placing the door

Installing hinges for the door

Placing the door

Step 7: Fastening the base of the green house

Completed Green House

Phase 5: Planting

• After fertilizing, plowing, raking, breaking up sod and leveling, more organic material was spread on the land in order to proceed with the plantings and transplants of various crops.

• In addition, holes were dug for the shade and fruit trees that will continue to form segments of planting.

Spreading manure

Digging holes for rows of trees among sections of plantings

Planting onions

Planting lima beans

Planting a mixture of corn, peas and squash

Seeds used

Planting carrots

First completed planting bed

Other Activities

Final Finishing of Ponds

• Beause of rain, the ponds began to accumulate water before they were completely finished.

• To finish them, a human chain was formed in which all cooperated to extract water.

• Then the rain damage to the wall was repaired and a protective plastic was installed to protect the lining.

• Next the impermeable liner was installed.• The pond was then filled to mold the plastic.• Finally, a channel was constructed to secure the liner.

Human chain to extract rain water from the pond

Repairing the walls and placing the protective plastic

Installation of the impermeable liner

Filling the pond to mold the plastic

Building the canal to secure the liner

Completed Pond

Unloading material

The construction of the perimeter wall continues

Placing support beams

Installing the siding

Plants in the shaded area

• After marking and preparing beds, various vegetables were planted including:– Cilantro– Radishes– Cabbage– Lettuce– Spinach

Watering lettuce in the semi-shaded area

Beds in the semi-shaded area 12 days after planting

Now the Agro-Ecological Training Center (CEA, by its initials in Spanish) has more to show visitors!