A short visit was made to the Oksapmin area, West Sepik (Sandaun) Province, Papua New Guinea in November 1979. Detailed recordings were made in 16 food gardens between 1650 and 2100 m altitude, mostly in the Upper Tekin Basin and Bak Valley. Data is presented on male absenteeism, children’s nutritional status, mean monthly rainfall and soil analysis results. The food production system is
... [Show full abstract] described and food plants noted in food gardens are listed. Notes are given on farming systems, land use intensification, pest and disease problems and crop failures. Some suggestions are made to improve food production in the area.