More farmers in Ilocos Norte have continued to gain insights on soil health with the presence of a mobile soil laboratory deployed in this coastal town.

On Thursday, the mobile soil laboratory was deployed in Currimao, where farmers from here and nearby municipalities of Pinili, Badoc, and Nueva Era participated in hands-on training on soil sampling and soil test kit utilization.

In his speech during the farmers’ training held at the Agriculture building, Currimao Mayor Edward Quilala told participants that Currimao is lucky to have soil experts sharing their knowledge on soil fertility management, including a lecture and demonstration on soil sampling principles and standard procedures, as well as the application of soil test kits.

“We are so lucky that we have research specialists who are here to provide additional knowledge, particularly on soil health,” Quilala said.

Engr. Erickson Biag, the town’s agriculturist, said the mobile soil laboratory will remain in Currimao until May 27 to conduct on-site soil testing in the different villages of the town.

“Through this, farmers will be provided with soil analysis within their cropping area along with fertilizer recommendations,” Biag said.

He added that soil testing and analysis will provide them accurate information, particularly on the right amount of fertilizer required for their crops to boost productivity.

The Department of Agriculture (DA) 1 (Ilocos Region) said the results will also be used to update the regional soil fertility map and guide farmers on proper fertilizer application. (PNA)