Mobile Soil Laboratory Enhances Farming Practices
BANGUED, Abra — The Department of Agriculture (DA) in the Cordillera region has welcomed a mobile soil laboratory from the national government to aid farmers in optimizing fertilizer use and increasing crop yields. This mobile soil laboratory is a vital tool designed to improve farming efficiency and soil health.
DA-Cordillera Director Jennilyn Dawayan confirmed that the region is among the 16 recipients of the Mobile Soil Laboratory (MSL), a fully equipped 10-wheeler truck capable of analyzing 44 soil and water parameters. The introduction of this mobile soil laboratory will benefit farmers by providing free, on-site soil testing and fertilizer recommendations tailored to their specific needs.
Free On-Site Soil Testing Across Municipalities
The mobile soil laboratory will rotate through various municipalities, staying in each province for about two months. This approach allows experts to conduct detailed soil analyses and immediately advise farmers on the appropriate type, amount, and timing of fertilizer application. Such guidance helps farmers avoid unnecessary fertilizer expenses while improving crop production.
Dawayan emphasized the importance of soil testing in agriculture: “Through this, farmers can avoid spending on fertilizer that is not necessary. If they are guided, they can introduce the proper fertilizer needed so that they can have better produce.” This initiative aims to promote sustainable farming by ensuring soil nutrients are managed efficiently.
Supporting Farmers with Training and Consultations
Besides soil testing, the MSL offers consultations and training sessions focused on proper fertilizer use. It supports the national food security program by making science-based soil management accessible to farmers, especially in areas with high agricultural activity and soil testing demand.
The pilot MSL program, launched in 2024 under President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., has already covered over 300 hectares in Tarlac and Nueva Ecija, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving agricultural practices. The Bureau of Soils and Water Management oversees this program, ensuring its alignment with national goals.
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