Montevista, Davao de Oro — Framers in Brgy. Linaon are now better equipped to manage land and water resources sustainably after completing a two-day intensive training on June 10-11, 2025. The training provided practical solutions to combat soil degradation and improve farm productivity. This initiative led by the DA-Bureau of Soils and Water Management (DA-BSWM) through its Soil Conservation and Management Division (SCMD), with support from DA–Regional Field Office XI and Local Government Unit of Montevista and Davao de Oro, the initiative brings real benefits to communities by mainstreaming Sustainable Land Management (SLM) practices.

The training was actively participated in by the members of both the Linoan Farmers Integrated Cooperative (LIFICO) and the Linoan Farmers Association (LFA), which underscored the community’s commitment to adopt SLM practices. The program commenced with a warm welcome delivered by Ms. Sunshine Gordo, speaking on behalf of Dr. Victoria B. Jubane, Montevista’s Municipal Agriculturist. Engr Brian Butt also extended messages of encouragement and support. Brian Butt, Engineer III of the Provincial Agricultural Office, and Mr. Joel Hara, Chairman of the Linoan Farmers Association, on the other hand, highlighted the collaborative spirit behind the initiative.

The core of the Training comprised a series of comprehensive lectures delivered by experts from the DA-BSWM. Engr. Josephroel C. Guillermo outlined the Training and provided a comprehensive discussion on Watershed Development and Management of Small Water Impounding Projects (SWIP), along with the current status of land and water resources in the country. He also highlighted the critical threats posed by land conversion and soil erosion to agricultural lands, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

Engr. Aliza Nicole B. Andes followed with a lecture on Soil Erosion, explaining its various types, the factors that accelerate it, its impacts on agricultural productivity, and effective mitigation strategies. Engr. Guillermo continued on discussing SLM Approaches and Technologies. He highlighted diverse SLM techniques that farmers can directly apply to their land, alongside successful exemplar sites designed to inspire farmers to embrace these sustainable methods for long-term productivity and environmental health.

Theoretical and practical skills were followed with a lecture conducted by Ms. Mariecar F. Gumafelix on How to Make A-Frame and T-Frame and Contouring, offering a comprehensive discussion on how these simple tools are essential for preventing soil erosion on sloping lands. Meanwhile, Engr. Jethro M. Miñano provided detailed discussions on Soil Sampling, outlining the steps for collecting accurate soil samples and the existing Regional Soil laboratories where farmers can submit their samples for analysis. Engr. Miñano also emphasized the importance of Farm Record Keeping, detailing its uses and how analyzing farm expenses and income can facilitate better financial planning for farmers. Concluding the lecture series, Engr. Aliza Nicole B. Andes discussed Farm Planning, guiding farmers through the essential elements of strategic agricultural development.

Beyond the theoretical discussions, the Program emphasized hands-on learning through various practical activities. In the Layout and Contouring the Field Using A-Frame and t-Frame session, farmers actively participated in constructing and calibrating their own A-Frame and t-Frame tools. They, then, successfully utilized these tools to lay out contours in a designated field, demonstrating a clear understanding of how to prevent soil erosion on sloping terrains.

During the Soil Sampling activity, participants gained direct experience in the process of collecting and preparing soil samples. They experienced the vital technique of quartering the soil samples they obtained, ensuring that the samples were representative and suitable for accurate laboratory analysis.

The Training culminated in a highly engaging Workshop on Farm Planning. Farmers were divided into two groups, each tasked with developing a comprehensive Farm Plan. Both groups rose to the challenge, creating farm plans that were not only well-thought-out but also exceptionally creative and excellently executed. This workshop underscored the farmers’ newfound capacity for strategic thinking and sustainable agricultural development.

This Farmer’s Training on Watershed Management for Small Water Impounding Systems exemplifies the DA-BSWM’s unwavering dedication, under the visionary leadership of Director Gina Parde-Nilo, Ph.D., and Assistant Director Denise A. Solano, to conserve the nation’s precious soil and water resources. By fostering strong partnerships and empowering local communities with essential knowledge and skills, DA-BSWM continues to pave the way for a more resilient and sustainable agricultural landscape in the Philippines.

(Engr. Jethro M. Miñano, PDO I; and Ms. Mariecar F. Gumafelix, PDO I; SCMD)

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