System of Rice Intensification (SRI): Volunteer Handbook

System of Rice Intensification, or SRI, is an agroecological methodology which is particularly well suited for the realities for smallholder farmers. SRI is a dynamic and adaptive agroecological approach to increasing rice production while decreasing purchased inputs and allowing farmers to better utilize existing resources. While many agricultural development models rely on synthetic inputs, often in combination with modern crop varieties, SRI is primarily a knowledge-management system, which can be used with any variety of rice.

This handbook was designed primarily for Peace Corps Volunteers in West Africa and their communities, but is intended to be applicable to other audiences as well – both outside of Peace Corps and outside of West Africa. The methodology it covers, SRI, is an adaptable strategy for ecologically increasing rice production while decreasing inputs, and with some local adaptation can be used in a wide variety of circumstances.