2. Who is SRI Global?
SRI is a non-profiting organization created in January of 2011, that promotes
the System of Rice Intensification, primarily for rice farmers in developing
countries.
Their goal is to increase the productivity of irrigated rice and other crops in
these areas of need.
They set agronomic principles to manage the rice plants, soil, water and
nutrients differently than what conventional agriculture recommends.
4. Design Criteria
Easy to build
Comfortable to use
Robust
Effective in multiple applications
Cost effective
5. Specifics of design
Distance between rows are 25 cm apart for rice. Other crops such as wheat
are 15-20 cm.
The weight of this design must be in a reasonable range. The typical weight is
around 8kg.
Materials that are used must be available to the local blacksmiths to limit
cost.
6. Machine Needs
Digs up weeds
Creates a light tilling for the soil
Aerates soil
Disperses water
Creates balanced plot conditions
7. Upland vs. Lowland
Dryland
Grown in dry areas
Fed by rain
Soil is kept moist
Planting time is critical
Crops mature quickly
Wetland
Grown in flooded/marshy areas
Fed by water grown in
Soil is flooded
Can be planted just about anytime
Crops mature slower
8. Types of Dryland Weeders
Dryland Peg Weeder
All components made with mild
steel
Roller with two discs joined by a
steel rod
V shaped blade mounted on the
arms
Blade and arms can be adjusted for
convenience and depth
Wheel Hand Hoe
All components made with medium
carbon steel
Straight blade, reversible blades,
sweeps, V –blade etc. can all be
accommodated on the frame
Cut and uproot weeds in a manner
that buries the weeds
9. Questions for SRI Global
Do you have a list of generally used local materials?
Where would be a good place to look for what materials and technologies are
available in these countries?
What would seem like a reasonable production cost in U.S. currency and
Malaysian currency?
Are there other organizations which might donate supplies or parts?
Are you willing to buy our passports if we get the offer to visit these fine
folks?
10. Contact Information
Alfred State Dryland Designers-Facebook Page
Link-https://www.facebook.com/pages/Alfred-State-Dryland-
Designers/454282554670987
Find us and like us to fallow our progress and learn more about our design.
