Local Knowledge in Swidden Cultivation of the Yao People in Phuc Son Commune, Chiem Hoa District, Tuyen Quang Province

Abstract

In the circumstance of industrialization and modernization of Vietnam, the local knowledge of minority ethnicities still has been very important for their socio-economic and cultural development. The studies of the knowledge in use and protection of natural resources for over last decade have recorded great achievements. This article addresses the local knowledge in swidden cultivation through the swidden cultivation calendar, cultivation cycle, and rice seeds of the Red Yao people in a commune of Tuyen Quang province. At present, although the wet-rice cultivation has played the leading role, the local knowledge of swidden cultivation still has been maintained and practiced among the Red Yao people in Phu Son commune.