Waking Up in an Orchard of Ripening Oranges

Trees after trees, hills after hills. Below, dew-kissed grass shimmered under the morning sun. Above, clouds enveloped the mountain peaks. The air was fresh, devoid of chemical smells. Just a short walk away, however, the pungent odor of pesticides hung heavy. Luong Van Thao, owner of this orange orchard in Ma 1 village, joined the 3T Agricultural Cooperative three years ago. He explained that the cooperative, led by his former classmate, promotes sustainable agriculture practices. Joining allowed him to reduce environmental pollution and ensured a stable market for his fresh fruit. The cooperative also helps members develop agritourism, further boosting income. Thao's wife shared their commitment to growing clean oranges, especially after her father's death from cancer linked to Agent Orange exposure. This personal tragedy spurred their transition to safer farming methods, prioritizing health over cosmetic perfection. They live in a simple hut on their land, tending to their orchard day and night. Their hard work has paid off. Last year, they harvested 13 tons of oranges, earning a good profit. They rely on natural fertilizers, minimizing pesticide use and employing traps for pest control. The cooperative fosters a collaborative spirit, with members sharing knowledge and coordinating pest control efforts.