Youth Soil Sampling and Analysis Skills: Unlocked

37 student interns from Makilala Institute of Science and Technology have enhanced their skills in soil sampling and analysis. The training is part of the Coconut Resiliency Project 1, supported by Mars, Franklin Baker, and Livelihood Funds, which aims to raise awareness of soil health and instill a stronger sense of commitment in young people and coconut farmers toward regenerative agriculture.

The interns are being mentored by the IRDF team as they collect soil samples from the farms of the coconut farmer partners. They analyze soil samples and determine the pH, N, K, and P levels using a soil test kit. They also provided suggestions on how to enhance soil nutrients under the direction of the Department of Agriculture Soils Laboratory 12 Team, led by Reynan H. Dumaraog – Senior Agriculturist, Sheryl Lou N. Leonida – Agriculturist II, Mike E. Macapintal – Agriculturist I, Katherine May V. Morandante – Agriculturist II, and Maria Lina C. Cantamayor – Administrative Assistant.

As the next generation of farmers, they are tasked to assist more coconut farmers in conducting soil sampling and analysis in their respective municipalities.