An Indian woman making the base of a small decorative basket in the Salasaca region. - - Integrated Rural Development. A UNDP/FAO project is helping the government develop its agricultural sector through the training of rural populations in modern techniques with regard to the reforestation of barren hillsides, marketing agricultural and agri-based products, and improviing rural handicrafts. Reforestation is being tackled in several regions, including that of Ambato in central Ecuador where the denuding of forests some 50 years ago has resulted in adverse climatic conditions and erosions. Local farmers have been encouraged to work under the ancient "mingus" self-help system in the planting of pine trees. Another component of the project is helping Indians in the Salasaca region to rediscover ancient handicrafts such as weaving, for which there is a growing market.