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Pataxó Indians learn to grow Atlanti Forest seedlings - 04.10.03
Veracel has trained a group of Pataxó Indians of the Barra Velha village of Porto Seguro how to grow Atlantic Forest tree species. For three days, members of the tribe learned the techniques that will allow them to establish a nursery in their village for the production of native species. The idea is to produce trees destined for recovering degraded areas on their land, also ensurin the reproduction of species used in their production of handicrafts, the main economic activity of the Indians in the extreme south of Bahia.
The Indians learned procedures to collect native species seeds, process them and allow them to germinate. Also included in the training was preparation of the substrate for the production of seedlings, types of packaging to use, irrigation techniques, correct use of shade and acclimatizing of the seedlings destined for planting. Although they live in the Atlantic Forest, the participants in the training program revealed that one of the most important things they were taught was how to recognize the trees when they were still very little. “We only see big trees and never knew how to identify the seedlings,” said Antônio Alves Nascimento, known as Cuati Pataxó.
Another objective of the training course was to qualify the Indians in the production of species of juerana, caxandô and mauí, widely used by the Barra Velha community for crafting combs, plates, earrings, rings and necklaces from wood, bark, vines, seeds and fruits extracted from the forest. According to Cosme Brás dos Santos (Tixuí Pataxó), the knowledge about the production processes of these types of seedlings will help the Pataxó remain true to their cultural roots.
Bahiarte
The training offered to the Indians emerged from the Bahiarte project, being run for the past four years by Sebrae. The purpose of this project is to develop an artisan activity in communities where culture and art is reflected in their craft products and can add income in a sustainable manner. One of the stages of the effort is precisely the establishment of a seedlings nursery in the village of Barra Velha.
Enivaldo Piloto Santos, operating technician of Sebrae/Eunápolis, said “the Pataxó indigenous community of Porto Seguro was selected because its handicrafts are the most genuine, due to historical factors.” The project seeks to encourage cultural affirmation, respect for the environment, socio-economic development, enhanced quality of life and the retention of the families in the village. The Bahiarte project directly benefits some 50 indigenous families of Barra Velha.