The project, "Heterogeneous valuation and eco-efficiency of Laser Land Leveling in paddy production in the Mekong Delta," studied farmers' adoption of this innovative technology and its impact on productivity. EfD researchers introduced cutting-edge precision agriculture techniques to help farmers adapt to climate change. The method reduces water, seed, fertilizer, and pesticide use while increasing yields by flattening fields with laser-guided technology.
Secured government funds
First, the research team selected communes that didn’t use Laser Land Leveling (LLL) technology in their paddy production in 2020. They conducted ten workshops for 500 farmers in Giang Thanh (Kien Giang Province) and Chau Phu (An Giang Province). 303 were interviewed to assess their willingness to adopt the technology.
The project offered technical assistance and subsidies, enabling smallholders to adopt the technology at reduced costs. In addition to EfD funding, the research team collaborated with local officials to secure approval for government funds. This enabled farmers to implement LLL services on up to 5 hectares, with support of up to $450 per household.
They connected local farmers with LLL providers from other provinces and arranged for experts to repair old LLL machines in the study provinces. Experts provided consultancy to farmers during the implementation phase, covering approximately 50 treatment plots and 50 control plots in the first implementation in 2021.
“Has been a game-changer”
Mr. Nguyen Thanh Duoc, Head of Giang Thanh's Agriculture and Rural Development Office, highlighted: "Over three years, over 1,000 hectares in Giang Thanh have been laser-leveled. This method reduces irrigation costs by 15–17%, fertilizer expenses by 15–20%, and seed use. It boosts productivity and income, helping farmers escape poverty and build sustainable rural communities."
Local farmer Hoang Huy Thang shared his experience: "With 15 hectares of rice fields, laser leveling has saved seeds, reduced labor, and improved yields by 20%. This technology has been a game-changer."
Scaling up for sustainability
Since its launch, the project has grown from pilot testing to broader adoption. The Giang Thanh district now plans to extend the practice to over 2,000 hectares, contributing to larger, climate-resilient rice fields.
Dr. Le Thanh Loan, project leader, emphasized the broader impact: "This project connects farmers, researchers, local authorities, and service providers, creating a network that promotes sustainable practices. By reducing greenhouse gas emissions and conserving water, it showcases the economic and environmental feasibility of laser-assisted leveling."
A sustainable path forward.
“Individual farmers, as well as farm cooperatives, are now independently investing in the equipment with credits from local banks,” says Le Thanh Loan.
This initiative demonstrates the potential of precision agriculture in Vietnam. It not only enhances farmers' livelihoods but also addresses challenges like water scarcity and climate change, paving the way for sustainable rice farming in the Mekong Delta.
