These Guidelines, of global nature, are aimed at developing and implementing FFS for better management and conservation practices on ISNM, with a view to sustaining the natural resource iv base (mainly soil and plant nutrients) and enhancing productivity and income of small-scale farmers.

These guidelines provide a basic conceptual framework and supporting reference material which it is believed will assist in the development and implementation of effective FFS. They are intended for use by FFS facilitators; with an agricultural extension, agronomy, soil science, plant nutrition, soil conservation or land husbandry disciplinary background; for the production of country or local specific manuals and curricula. These should be adapted to the agro-ecological environment, the cropping/farming systems, and the socio-economic conditions and educational level of the farmers in the areas where the FFS are to be implemented.