Indigenous Agricultural Practices for Environmental Conservation and Food Insecurity

Puerto Rico has been facing significant challenges in agriculture due to unsustainable practices and insufficient investment. This has led to problems like soil degradation, food insecurity, and the loss of small farm systems. In this study, I investigated the potential of Indigenous agroforestry systems, particularly the Taíno conuco method, to restore ecological balance and enhance agricultural resilience. The conuco system, which involves creating organic mounds, intercropping, and methods for moisture retention, was tested to see how it affects crop growth and soil nutrients. While the conuco treatment did not influence plant growth after five months, longer-term studies with this system are recommended. Around the world, Indigenous agroforestry practices have shown their effectiveness in boosting biodiversity, improving soil health, and enhancing climate resilience. A review of different case studies demonstrates how adaptable these practices can be across regions facing similar agricultural challenges. By combining traditional knowledge with modern agroecology, Puerto Rico and other tropical regions can create sustainable solutions for food production and ecosystem healing. This research highlights the importance of further investigating Indigenous farming systems as a viable path toward recovering both agriculture and the environment.