Climate change adaptation measures in a highly productive maize area (Mexico): Are practices aligned with science?

Abstract

As the center of origin and diversification of maize, Mexico heavily depends on its production, making climate change a significant risk to food security. Implementing adaptive measures is essential to mitigate production losses. To evaluate farmers’ perspectives on climate change and the alignment between adaptive measures in practice, those proposed in scientific literature, and public policy, we conducted 30 semi-structured interviews in a highly productive area in Mexico (between August 2022 and January 2023) where rainfed and irrigated agriculture coexist (La Piedad). We then reviewed the scientific literature and analyzed all applicable policy instruments for the area. Our findings indicate that farmers recognize climate change as a significant threat and implement adaptive measures empirically. While scientific literature and public policies promote specific strategies, these are rarely implemented. Instead, practices such as leasing land to agave producers (which is not a good climate change adaptation measure) are becoming more common. The most widespread practice to retain moisture is leaving crop residues, though some farmers have abandoned it due to a lack of technical support. Despite acknowledging climate change, 87% of farmers lack access to reliable climate information or early warnings for extreme events like La Niña. This difference between practices highlights the need for vigorous efforts to bridge scientific recommendations with on-field practices. In conclusion, while farmers perceive climate change as a risk, effective implementation of science-based adaptation measures requires substantial support through policy and technical assistance.