From Trash to Blessing, IPB University’s KKN-T Students Create Innovation of Compost Fertilizer Made from Hay Waste
A group of IPB University students who are currently undergoing the Thematic Community Service (KKN-T) Innovation in Cihara Village have created an innovation of compost fertilizer using hay waste as the main material. This innovation is intended to increase agricultural productivity and minimize agricultural waste in the village.
"Behind the potential that the Cihara Village hold, there are certain issues met such as an uneven distribution of fertilizer subsidies. Hay is used as animal feed, however only a few people in Cihara Village utilize it, thus the hay waste is not utilized and wasted," said Kesha, the coordinator of KKN-T Innovation in Cihara Village.
Therefore, Kesha and the team intend to assist farmers in addressing this issue by conducting a socialization program on the utilization of hay waste as the main material for producing organic compost fertilizer. The socialization event was held at the meeting hall of Kiara Mukti Farmer Group in Cipunaga Village.
Kesha explained the tools and materials used in making compost fertilizer: tarpaulin/trash bags, raffia strings, adhesive tape, water, granulated sugar/brown sugar/molasses, hay, animal manure, and EM4 liquid (optional). EM4 is a liquid containing beneficial bacteria that accelerates the decomposition of hay and enhances plant growth.
"The process of making compost fertilizer first starts with collecting hay from farmers in Cihara Village. The straw is then specially treated using composting technology with a mixture of EM4 solution, granulated sugar, and water provided by the team. After undergoing the fermentation and decomposition stage done by microorganisms, the hay transforms into nutrient-rich compost fertilizer," she explained.
Kesha hopes that after this activity, farmers will be able to independently produce compost fertilizer, hence reducing the expenses for purchasing fertilizers and improving the quality of agricultural yields.
The residents of Cihara Village are very enthusiastic about the innovation brought by the KKN-T Innovation team from IPB University. They warmly welcome the use of this compost fertilizer that is made from hay.
"Truthfully, we have been constantly instructed to make compost fertilizer on our own, but there was no direct practical guidance. For this reason, we greatly appreciate the presence of IPB University students in our village who have demonstrated the process directly firsthand," emphasized Jai, the Chairman of Kiara Mukti Farmer Group.
Dr Steven Solikin, the field supervisor (DPL) of the KKN-T Innovation students in Cihara Village, appreciates this activity. Dr Steven in addition hopes that this innovation will have a positive impact on farmers in Cihara Village and its surrounding areas.
"The innovation of making compost fertilizer using hay as the main material is highly suitable for implementation in Cihara Village. Not only is it easy to make, but this innovation also targets the majority of the population who work as farmers. It is hoped that this innovation can help address the challenges faced by farmers, especially in the issue of fertilizers," expressed Dr Steven. (KES/RAT/Rz) (IAAS/ZRT)
