For a small farmer the priority is to reduce risks. When one has only a small piece of land, it is crucial to avoid failures, they cannot be compensated by other incomes. Proven traditional techniques look safer than innovations proposed by an agronomist from outside the village.

Before answering any problem, the agronomist is wise to ask what techniques are used in the village. The farmers with the best results are probably a safe source of advice. Progressively these "local best practices" may be improved. Mekong Plus supports pilot farmers who, after harvest, then explain to their fellow farmers about their practical experience.

Instead of "teaching" the farmers, we prefer to encourage the best farmers to speak. Small investments, low risk options are always preferred. Seminars and meetings are organized, the Mekong Plus agronomist shows pictures taken from the fields in the area, with the help of a second had lap-top and a digital projector.