Xebangfai:Stakeholders in Xebangfai district recently gathered to discuss new weeding techniques for rice fields, in an event co-chaired by Mr. Choumsy Xayavong, Deputy Head of the Xebangfai District Agriculture and Environment Office, and Ms. Khamtai Vongxaya, Deputy Head of the Rice and Economic Crop Research Centre under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment. The meeting saw participation from representatives of target villages across Xebangfai district, Nongbok district, and Thakhek district.
According to Lao News Agency, the discussions centered on lessons learned from the recent application of Integrated Weed Management (IWM) techniques in local rice paddies. Farmers shared their experiences, highlighting ongoing challenges with past practices and evaluating strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement in current methods. The farmers also emphasized the need for continued financial and technical support from authorities to ensure the initiative's long-term success.
The event concluded with a visit to a demonstration plot where participants observed specific weed management methods in action. A notable highlight was the practice of sowing green beans alongside dry direct seeding as a strategy to control weed growth.