KANANGA, Leyte - On March 18-22, 2024, ATI-RTC 8 conducted a training on Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) with Emphasis on Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS) in Rice Farming. Integrated Nutrient Management is a holistic approach to managing soil fertility and crop nutrition, aiming to optimize nutrient use efficiency, reduce environmental impacts, and improve crop productivity. In the context of rice production, INM plays a crucial role in sustaining soil health, enhancing nutrient availability, and promoting balanced fertilization strategies.
The week-long training aimed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills on the balanced fertilization strategy in rice farming. Through discussions and various workshops, participants, mostly AEWs and ESPs from different rice producing areas in the region, appreciated the concept of the Balanced Fertilization Strategy as presented and discussed by resource persons from DA-attached agencies such as ATI-RTC8, FPA8, RFO8, and PhilRice.
The participants actively performed and properly demonstrated the standard procedure in soil sampling and collection for MOET set-up and soil analysis. They also conducted actual Soil Testing Kit (STK) analysis. Farm visit to Trophy Farms was also conducted where participants learned about organic fertilizer production, and calculated the amounts of N, P2O5, and K2O in available fertilizers in the market to be applied based on the results of the STK analysis.
“When my Municipal Agriculturist informed me about the communication from ATI inviting us to join the training. I immediately volunteered” explained Alexander Yape, an AEW from Paranas, Samar. Alexander recognized the significance of proper nutrient management in rice production, especially considering the challenges posed by problematic soils that directly impact our yields. “This training provided by ATI has offered valuable insights into optimizing nutrient management to enhance rice productivity, reduce production costs, and minimize environmental impact. It underscores the importance of adopting a holistic approach to agriculture, particularly in rice farming, by integrating nutrient management and climate-smart practices for a sustainable and resilient future.” he added.
As an Irrigator Development Officer (IDO), Ms. Filma Sadoguio promised to impart the knowledge she gained from the training to the farmers and teach them the importance and advantages of adopting the Balanced Fertilization Strategy (BFS). “As an IDO/IDP implementer, I have the direct influence over the farmers for them to adopt BFS.”
With their re-entry plans, the thirty (30) AEWs and ESPs who attended the training are set to implement Integrated Nutrient Management and the Balance Fertilization Strategies in their respective municipalities.
