This paper outlines an agent-based modeling application of shifting cultivation for an upland village in Vietnam, which was developed to improve the management of shifting cultivation and aid forest protection. The model consists of household and land agents situated in a dynamic social, economic and political environment. Adaptation of the agents to changes in policy is incorporated through a trade-off between economic gains and social responsibility, which affect the subsequent decision-making process. The basics of the model are described including the validation process and the results in a business as usual scenario.