THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY INFLUENCING THE FAMILY SUCCESSION AMONG YOUNG RURAL PRODUCERS IN ESPÍRITO SANTO

Abstract

Young farmer Hugo Celso Plaster, aiming to remain on the family farm after completing high school and the agricultural technical course at the Escola Família Agrícola (EFA) in Olivânia, proposed and executed his Youth Professional Project (PPJ) to diversify the farm, using innovative technologies to produce blueberries and strawberries. Currently, with a highly deversified production, in addition to other crops, the family cultivates 500 potted blueberry plants, with an annual yield of approximately 1,200 kg/year, and 6,000 strawberry plants in a semi-hydroponic suspended cultivation system, using inert substrates and controlled nutrient solutions for optimal plant nutrition. The irrigation system for these crops is fully automated, using drip irrigation, with pulse and scale monitoring, daily soil and water conductivity analyses. This raises the quality standards of the fruit grown, reduces labor demand, and maintains environmental sustainability and social responsibility, contributing to the preservation of the natural resources of the mountainous region of the state of Espírito Santo. The farm stands out for its extensive use of agricultural technologies, and Hugo's project serves as a reference for small producers in the community and neighboring regions, as well as for technical students, through supervised internships, in which the family opens the doors of their property and home, to welcome and teach other young people. Thus, despite the challenging scenario of succession for young people in family farming, this experience highlights the existence of opportunities in diverse rural contexts, both productive and social.