A rigorous four-phase approach, grounded in the field and statistically validated across 9 sites.
How We Work
MIP does not merely observe — it experiments, co-builds and measures. A rigorous four-phase approach ensures every result is reliable, reproducible and directly transferable to farmers.
Analysis of crop water requirements, physiological responses to water stress, and efficiency thresholds for each cultivated species.
Design of low-cost localised systems — drip kits, micro-sprinklers, tensiometers — and development of simple decision-support tools.
Comparative evaluation across varied environments using rigorous factorial design (complete randomised blocks, 3–4 replicates).
Joint protocol development with farmers, social validation through Local Steering Committees, and knowledge transfer via relay farmers.
| Data type | Key indicators & measurements |
|---|---|
| 🌿 Agronomic | Commercial yields (kg/ha), yield components, aerial and root biomass, phenology and plant growth |
| 💧 Hydric | Soil moisture (capacitive sensors), AET, irrigation volumes, water use efficiency (Water Productivity) |
| 🏔 Pedological | Physico-chemical properties, infiltration rates, water retention capacity, soil fertility and organic matter |
| 📊 Socio-economic | Production costs, gross and net margins, labour time, social acceptability and technology adoption rates |
Digital database, demonstration videos in Malagasy, illustrated comic-strip technical guides, and training modules for farmer field schools. Statistical analyses use mixed models (ANOVA, REML) accounting for Site › Block › Plot hierarchy.