Value adding and processing of rice farm waste: enhancing productivity and profitability of rain-fed rice farms in Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines

摘要

Integrated farming systems in the rain-fed rice farms of Villaverde, Nueva Vizcaya, focusing on farm waste processing, were developed to enhance productivity and profitability of farms. Rice straws were utilised for mushroom (Pleurotus) production andprocessing, and vermicompost production. Nineteen farmers were selected as farmer-co-operators in barangays Ibung, Pieza and Sawmill. After rice harvest, rice straws were collected and consolidated for mushroom and vermicompost production. Procedures for mushroom production and processing were followed. Farmer-co-operators, together with their spouses, were trained on how to prepare fruiting bags. Vermicompost beds were constructed and Eudrilus eugeniae (known as the African Night Crawler) was used asthe vermiworms. Production and economic data were gathered and analysed to determine impacts on farmer income. Results showed that through value added processing of farm waste, productivity and profitability of farms were enhanced. An average total mushroom production of 139.53 kg was recorded with a net income of PHP12.238.98. Value added processed products from mushroom included embulido, burger, siomai and dinakdakan, all elements of Filipino cuisine. A total of 350 kg of vermicompost was recorded with a net income of PHP4.805. Aside from cash income generated by the sale of vermicompost, the product was used as an organic fertiliser in rice and vegetable cultivation, thereby saving farmers costs on inputs and reducing dependence on chemical fertilisers. Therefore, farm waste processing systems utilising the rice straws from rain-fed rice farms are strongly recommended to increase crop yield and income of farmers.