More and more small producers are renting land in Plottier (Neuquén) to develop the cultivation of fruits and vegetables. However, many face infrastructure limitations, including the absence of adequate bathrooms on the leased farms.
To address this challenge, members of the El Labrador de China Muerta Cooperative, along with technicians from INTA, have developed a mobile bathroom built with recycled materials from the oil industry.
This system allows producers to access a functional bathroom with low investment, maintaining mobility to move it in case of changing farms.
## The phenomenon of agricultural leasing
Daniel Lagos, president of the cooperative, explained to LMNeuquén that in the area there is a growing demand for land by the Bolivian community, which has started producing fine fruits and vegetables in China Muerta.
“There are many small farms left with older owners who can no longer work them, so we have created a leasing system that connects producers with landowners,” detailed Lagos.
However, most of the lands are leased without basic infrastructure, leading to the search for mobile and affordable solutions.
## Design and materials of the mobile bathroom
Lagos, together with César Gutiérrez, an INTA technician, designed this alternative thinking about:
– Use of recycled materials, to reduce costs.
– Mobile structure, adapting to changes in location.
– Washable plastic, used in the transportation of chemicals in the oil industry, ensuring hygiene and stability.
– Reused toilet and pipes, reducing the initial investment.
The materials cost of the first prototype was 350,000 pesos, excluding labor.
Additionally, they plan to incorporate a shower with a solar panel, allowing hot water in the field.
## Impact on strawberry production in Plottier
According to INTA studies, strawberry cultivation in Plottier has tripled in recent years, reaching an area of 170 hectares.
The city has proven to be environmentally suitable for this type of production, favored by the presence of two key nurseries in northern Patagonia.
Much of the Bolivian community has acquired knowledge in strawberry cultivation and migrated to production, encouraged by the growth of this market.
## Regulation and commercialization of frozen products
The increase in production has driven the need for regulations on cold and freezing technology, facilitating the commercialization of strawberries out of season.
INTA, together with the Municipality and the Deliberative Council, is working on regulations that allow producers to install packaging with conservation technology.
## Innovation to strengthen local production
The development of the mobile bathroom, along with the promotion of strawberry production, reflects the advancement of agriculture in Plottier, combining sustainability, infrastructure, and strategic regulations.
This initiative not only improves the working conditions of producers but also contributes to economic growth and agricultural diversification in the region.
Cover photo: Omar Novoa
