DA-10 trains field personnel on soil analysis for region-wide testing

 

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Under the leadership of Regional Executive Director Jose Apollo Y. Pacamalan, the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) is stepping up its efforts to assist farmers in adopting strategic fertilization methods for the upcoming planting seasons.

In line with this move, the DA-10 convened its personnel from the Field Operations Division (FOD) for a “Technical Briefing on Soil Sampling Activity” on March 3 at El Garaje, within the agency’s compound.

The briefing featured a hands-on demonstration on soil sampling and analysis, with personnel directed to conduct soil testing in farm areas before May.

Senior Agriculturist Karl Roman O. Wong of the Regional Soils Laboratory (RSL) of the DA-10’s Integrated Laboratories Division (ILD) led the discussion on proper soil sampling, collecting, and processing.

He also emphasized the importance of not only involving agency personnel to conduct soil testing activities, but also optimizing the role of agricultural extension workers (AEW) from the local government units (LGU) to ensure simultaneous soil testing across the region, within the given two-month timeframe.

To further reinforce technical competencies, Bureau of Soils and Water Management Science Research Specialist I Rochelle P. Estrella supervised a practical demonstration, focusing on qualitative soil analysis to assess pH levels, as well as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents.

By mobilizing its personnel and maximizing the roles of LGU AEWs for data-driven fertilization strategies, DA-10 ensures that soil sampling and analysis is readily available and accessible to farmers to help enhance soil fertility and improve crop yields in the next harvests.# (BJCE)