DA CHIEF DIRECTS BSWM TO SET UP MODERN SOIL LABORATORIES

By Adones Buhayan

Through the recently approved National Soil Health Program with P523.575 million funding, Agriculture Secretary William Dar directed the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) to set up modern and efficient national and regional soil laboratories. 1) institutionalizing national soil monitoring and rejuvenation program; 2) soil health monitoring through mobile soils laboratory; 3) strengthening of partnerships with various stakeholders; and 4) production and improvement in soil analysis.

The National Soil Health Program to be implemented in 2021–2023 by the BSWM has four project components: Since his return as DA chief, Secretary Dar has been advocating for the National Soil Health Program and rainwater harvesting that will address concerns on crop productivity and water availability as soil and water are crucial elements in agriculture.

Photo by: Adones Buhayan, DA-AFID

Secretary Dar congratulated the BSWM for the 70 years of service and for taking the lead in the Asian Soil Partnership Governance for 2021-2023. He also attended the anniversary celebration of the BSWM on June 2, 2021. (DAAFID/PIA-Caraga)