Abstract only

Despite advances in software usability, data access and analytic approaches, GIS is still only utilized by a fraction of potential users. This is particularly true in developing countries. However, an increasing number of software options and data sources are becoming available, and the situation is rapidly changing. This paper highlights a selection of widely accessible GIS tools, coupled to geographic datasets. These include the Africa Maize Research Atlas (International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center-CIMMYT, incorporating ArcExplorer from ESRI Inc.), DIVA (International Potato Center-CIP /International Plant Genetic Resources Institute-IPGRI), and the Almanac Characterization Tool (Mud springs Geographers Inc.). These tools represent increasing levels of complexity in entry-level GIS systems, but all permit non-GIs experts to analyze and interpret geospatial data. The tools provide a means to improve spatial awareness amongst researchers that, in turn, can foster more efficient use of higher-level GIS resources. Additionally, such tools typically require a minimal amount of training (a maximum of two days), and represent zero or minimal cost options. To encourage GIS data access, CIMMYT has promoted the distribution of such tools, including data sets, to agricultural researchers. Climatology, soils, topography, infrastructure, demographics, and crop production data are typical inclusions. Additionally, these tools have considerable utility for the dissemination of data products arising from more advanced GIS analysis, namely, accessibility surfaces or poverty maps. Several examples are given of real world applications of these tools, including how they can assess impact. The adoption of conservation tillage (CT) technologies in the rice-wheat region of the Indo-Gangetic Plains is highlighted. Nearly two decades of research on tillage options now appear to be driving a substantial increase in the adoption of reduced tillage practices. Through the Rice Wheat Consortium; researchers are using hand-held GPs units to rapidly record field locations where farmers have adopted different CT technologies. These locations, and all associated attribute data, can then be transferred directly into a GIS to produce an accurate spatial and temporal record of technology spread across the region. This is possible in near real time, is undertaken entirely by researchers in the region, and requires an investment of less than US$200 in GIS/GPS hardware and software.

Socioeconomics Program

English

0309|R01CIMPU|AGRIS 0301|AL-Economics Program

Juan Carlos Mendieta

INT2550

CIMMYT Staff Publications Collection