Terraced Field Reform

Work

The project is co-organized by VolTra and Wing Lung Agriculture Center (WLAC).  WLAC is one of the 75 registered eco-farms in Hong Kong.  Workcampers will mainly work in the agriculture center, which was once the terraced field (ladder field) in Hong Kong.  To reflect the significant historical value of the terraced field, WLAC would like to reform the terraced field eco-farming.  Workcampers will help to reform the terraced field, cultivate herbs and fruits, and conserve the environment through renovation work. 

Aim:

1. Reform the terraced field for organic farming in order to rebuild the traditional farming in Sai Kung
2. Participate in harvesting and ecological monitoring work to beautify and conserve the environment
3. Learn and appreciate the importance of local agriculture and its relationship with ecology

Voluntary work:

1. Terraced field reform and weed removal work
2. Organic herbs and fruits harvesting work
3. Renovation of camp base and taking care of guard dogs
4. Wildlife monitoring work

Accommodation

Workcampers are accommodated in the farming hut located in the agriculture center.  The living environment is very simple and basic but in a very peaceful rural living style.  Male and female workcampers will share the same living area and there is no partition in the accommodation space.  Workcampers are required to sleep on the floor and carry their sleeping bags.  Bed, pillow and mattress will not be provided.  Toilet, tap water, electricity, refrigerator and fans will be provided at the farming hut. Except community visits or group shopping, workcampers are expected to stay inside the camp site during working days.

Location

Sai Kung comprises the southern half of Sai Kung Peninsula and Clear Water Bay Peninsula in the New Territories plus a strip to the east of Kowloon in Hong Kong.  In contrast to the densely populated areas of Hong Kong Island and Kowloon, Sai Kung’s heartland is a coastal area characterised by beautiful scenery, charming small villages and stunning seascapes.  Located in Sai Kung, WLAC has an organic herbs field, fruit field, terraced field area, a farming hut and a big front yield.

Terminal

Hong Kong International Airport

Remark

1. Workcampers are responsible for carrying out cooking and cleaning duties by turns.  Budget for food will be provided and food materials will be shopped by workcampers or consumed directly from the fields. All meals during the workcamp will be “low carbon meals”. “Dark meat” will not be served.
2. A basic but clean toilet cum bathroom is available at the farming hut. Workcampers are recommended not to use cleaning chemicals in order to prevent pollution.  Natural or biodegradable detergent prefers.
3. For summer project, it is the hottest and wettest period in Hong Kong.  The average temperature ranges from 27°C to 32°C.  The average humidity is around 80%.  Typhoon and thunderstorm are sometimes frequent, which may cause heavy rainfall.  Workcampers are therefore advised to drink enough water to prevent heat stroke during their work, and should keep a close eye on health condition as well as avoid working outdoor under extreme weather without instruction.
4. For winter project, it is the coldest and driest period in Hong Kong.  The average temperature ranges from 14°C to 20°C but lower temperature is expected in Long Valley.  Below 10°C is expected under cold front period.  Workcampers should carry suitable clothing for the cold weather.
5. Please remember to bring mosquito repellent.  Organic or natural one is recommended.
6. You will need to take some hike before getting to the camp site, so backpack may be the best choice for your luggage.
7. There is only dim lighting along the walkway to the agriculture center at night time.  Please bring your torch!
8. There are 6 dogs and 2 cats in the agriculture center.

Local Organizer

Wing Lung Agriculture Center (WLAC) was jointly developed by James Lung International Art and Cultural Exchange Association and the Hong Kong Community Development Network.  It is one of the 75 registered eco-farms in Hong Kong.  The agriculture center covers an area of ​​2,000 square feet.  WLAC was once the terraced field in Hong Kong.  To reflect the significant historical value of the terraced field, WLAC would like to reform the terraced field eco-farming. 

Since December 2009, James Lung International Art and Cultural Exchange Association has been operating the Yau Tsim Mong Food Bank. The food bank collects vegetables from WLAC on a regular basis.  The food is provided not only for ethnic minorities, but also for local Chinese who are in need.