Agricultural Program

Livestock Program

Cows are very expensive for struggling rice farmers to purchase or rent.

Yet they help to increase the crop yield dramatically and greatly impact the rural farmer’s ability to feed his family during the drought season which lasts 4 to 5 months of the year.

Cows vary in size, and range in price from $250 to $500 USD.

Trailblazer Foundation has witnessed the enormous positive economic impact a pair of cows can have on the lives of 6 families. Following is a true story of motivation and entrepreneurialism that simply needed a 'kick start' for a successful outcome.

Mr. Chhom is a landmine victim missing half a leg below the knee.

Cambodia has no government aid program for such disadvantaged individuals.

Though it was very difficult for Mr. Chhom, he supported his family by cutting and selling firewood.

Through a $600 Trailblazer Foundation grant, Mr. Chhom received a pair of cows to help him plant and harvest rice. With these he grew and harvested
— for the first time—enough rice to feed his family for an entire year.

To make a little extra income, he also rented out his cows to five other families, who in turn enjoyed the same success. Over time, Mr. Chhom was able to upgrade his thatched home to an all wood house and have enough money to pay for two of his daughters to go to school.

Pigs are used as a food and income source as well but are also quite expensive for rural villagers. Piglets cost an average of $50 USD each. A breeding pig costs approximately $120 USD.

To read more: Got to Livestock Page

Fish Farm Program

Fish farms are a popular low cost program with rural villagers and one they are excited about. A successful fish farm can provide a year-round source of protein. This is vital in an area where many families have minimal access to food during the drought season.

Fish fingerlings can be purchased at a local fishery at 50 fingerlings for 1$ USD. For 9$ USD three rural villagers can start fish farms with an initial stock of 150 fish fingerlings for each pond.

Additional items a fish farmer may need include plastic liners for fish ponds, and netting to reduce evaporation during periods of drought.

Trailblazer Foundation helps villages establish an Agriculture Committee to assist farmers in managing their own fish farms. Selected individuals receive educational materials and are trained in sustainable techniques and maintenance for fish farms.

Drip Irrigation Systems

Once people have access to a well they often use the water to irrigate a garden. Produce from a successful garden can supplement their diet and offer an avenue for economic growth.

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