The importance of animals in rural family agroecological farms

Abstract

It was examined the animal integration in family agroecological farms from research projects that interface with the extension. To assess the impacts of the changes was used participatory assessments, household surveys, monitoring of prodution, interviews with key informants and content analysis. It was concluded that the initial goal of improving animal aimed at production of animal manure sparked different ideas, projects and perspectives both for farmers and researchers. The activities promoted greater agroecological awareness, especially in relation to the importance of production diversification and the interrelationship of the activities, as well as the respect to nature. It also improved the self-esteem of women, through orchards and processing of milk, and improved the living conditions of families through diversity and food quality, health aspects and knowledge of rent increase.