From Farmers to Stewards: A Qualitative Study of the NEDF Swath Project Experience

Abstract

Smallholder farmers in climate-vulnerable areas face interconnected ecological, production, and livelihood pressures that require integrated responses. This qualitative study documented the lived experiences of farmer-beneficiaries participating in the Negros Economic Development Foundation Inc. (NEDF) Sustaining Watershed Health (SWATH) Project in Negros Occidental, Philippines. Using a phenomenological approach, data were generated from 13 participants through a focus group discussion and unstructured in-depth interviews. The accounts were analysed using Lichtman’s 3Cs framework of coding, categorising, and concepts, with data collection continuing until thematic saturation. Five themes described the participants’ experiences: transformation into environmental stewards; adoption of sustainable and resilient farming systems; enhanced livelihood and financial empowerment; institutional development and community solidarity; and roles as mentors and learning hubs. Participants described the use of swales and infiltration canals, diversified farming, organic inputs, value-added products, collective savings, market consolidation, organisational strengthening, and farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing. Their accounts indicate that the project was experienced not as a single technical intervention but as an integrated combination of ecological, livelihood, financial, organisational, and learning-related support. The findings suggest that this integrated approach can strengthen local capacity for watershed stewardship and climate-resilient farming while supporting livelihood stability and collective action among participating farmers within the specific social and environmental setting examined in this study.