DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE TEST OF APPROPRIATE ON-FARM COMPOSTING PACKAGE FOR SMALL FARMERS.

Abstract

In Indonesia, the active participation of farmers is fundamental to gain the multiple benefits of org. waste treatment via composting. Currently, small farmer involvement in composting practice has still low because of limited access to appropriate technologies. Min. supply of appropriate facility increased the probability of ineffective org. waste treatment. The main aim of this research is to create appropriate on-farm composting package for small farmers by adopting NOL (non-odorous and low maintenance) principles in the whole composting process with min. input of raw materials. The composting package maximizes goat housing with raised slatted floor function to become the major device with composting bin as a complement. The research showed that composting can be done with the min. input of raw materials and maintenance. Overall, the majority of nutrient content of the composting products complied national quality std. [SNI 19-7030-2004] and decree of agricultural minister [Permentan No. 70/2011] so that it could be applied safely for the agricultural land esp. for the horticultural plant. Therefore, this package is highly recommended for small farmers to assist composting practice with effective and efficient ways in developing countries. [on SciFinder(R)]