Many countries in Asia have started to replace existing blanket fertilizer recommendations for rice, maize, or wheat with more site-specific guidelines adapted to local needs. This process was accompanied by a shift from traditional on-station research to an on-farm development and evaluation of novel practices. However, some key challenges faced by the local extension agencies related to the complex nature of factors influencing corn nutrient requirements remain. For this reason, the software Nutrient Expert® for Maize was developed to assist local experts in the development of fertilizer guidelines for maize based on the principles of site-specific nutrient management (Pampolino et al. 2012).
One way to disseminate this updated technology on corn production, ATI-RTC 8 gathered the corn program coordinators in the region to capacitate them with knowledge and skills on site-specific nutrient management for maize production and use the Nutrient Expert® for Maize application.
The following topics were discussed: Introduction to Digital Agriculture, Introduction to e-Learning, Introduction to Unified Extension System (UnExSys); Corn Seeds and Nutrient Management on Corn Production, Site-Specific Nutrient Management Principles and Results, and Nutrient Expert for Maize Philippines.
The training focused on Nutrient Expert® for Maize Philippines (NEMPh), a nutrient decision support that enables local experts to quickly formulate fertilizer recommendations for hybrid, open-pollinated, and traditional maize varieties in the Philippines. The tool provides optimal planting density and fertilizer recommendation and application following the 4R nutrient stewardship (right source, right rate, right time, and right place). It also presents a simple profit analysis comparing costs and benefits between farmer’s current practices and the recommended improved practice.
The participants were able to download the application, input data from a questionnaire, and generate the fertilizer recommendation. Aside from NEMPh, they were also taught basic agricultural applications and websites that will also aid them in their functions as extension workers. Participants who completed the training received seven (7) CPD credit units.
Mr. Dave L. Gozo, Agricultural Technician of LGU-San Miguel, shared, “I am a BS in Animal Science graduate but I was assigned by our LGU to work under the Corn Program. I don’t have much knowledge regarding this crop, so I equipped myself with research and reading. I am very thankful for ATI and for the Training on Site-Specific Nutrient Management in Maize because it will be very helpful in our municipality, especially to corn farmers. Thank you very much ATI!”
A total of 25 participants completed the Training on Site-Specific Nutrient Management (SSNM) for Maize on March 14-16, 2023 at ATI-RTC 8, VSU Campus, Baybay City, Leyte. (With written reports from Gizell Jill D. Nuñez)
