THE CURRENT SITUATION OF MOUNTAIN YAM RESOURCES AND BARRIERS TO THEIR CONSERVATION AND COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT IN BAO THANG DISTRICT, LAO CAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This study aims to assess the current situation of mountain yam resources and analyse key barriers to conservation and commercial development of mountain yam varieties in Bao Thang district of Lao Cai province. A typical commune of Bao Thang district was selected for this study during March – April 2019 through interviews with leaders and extension staff of the commune, household businesses and interviews together with group discussions among representative local farmers. As a result, currently there are 3 mountain yam varieties in Gia Phu commune. However, the plants mainly scatter in nature with small reserves. Local farmers are not yet aware of medicinal values of mountain yam. Additionally, there was limited market information concerning yam products. These require urgent actions for conservation and commercial development for the indigenous mountain yam varieties. Addressing current challenges concerning propagation techniques, production and market actor linkages and/or value chain development would substantially contribute to improving household income in the research area.