Champassak bans planting of soil-degrading crops in Pakxong
A new directive issued by Champassak authorities has banned the cultivation of crops and trees that are likely to deteriorate soil quality in the coffee-rich Pakxong district, part of the Bolaven Plateau. The banned crops include cassava, large bananas (kuay hom), Jatropha, and eucalyptus.
A 12-page Decision signed by the Governor of Champassak province, Dr Vilayvong Bouddakham, spells out the action to be taken to prevent crops that degrade the quality of soil from being grown in the district.
Pakxong is part of the 497,199-hectare Bolaven Plateau that was formed following the eruption of a volcano millions of years ago. The plateau has fertile and productive soil along with a relatively cooler climate that is perfect for growing organic crops and aromatic coffee. Ranging from 1,000 to 1,350 metres in elevation, a US media channel (CNN) described the Bolaven Plateau as one of the world’s best coffee-growing regions.
Times Reporters
