Enhancing soil biodiversity with beneficial microorganisms for a sustainable agroecosystem

This study endeavors to support the practice of organic farming technology in the agricultural production systems. The academe has its crucial role in research, development and extension activities in line with the national organic agriculture plans and programs, anchored with Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 or RA 10068. The Nueva Vizcaya State university (NVSU) is one of the agriculture-based state universities and colleges (SUCs) in the country that can really work in the commercialization of appropriate innovative and viable organic farming technologies for its clients. One principle in ecological agriculture is through building characteristics of a strong agroecosystem, which includes the internal strengths of the soil system. Building the soil organic matter and its management are the heart of creating healthy soils through adding large quantities of plant and animal residues. NVSU began producing its bio-fertilizers enhanced with Effective Microorganisms (EM) on January 2012 with guaranteed analysis of 43.48%, 2.17%, 2.86%, and 0.66%, organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus (P2O5) and potassium (K2O), respectively. Using EM in agricultural production is a form of organic farming technique. EM was used as a fermentation starter in making organic compost and insect repellant. Microorganisms in EM can boost the population of soil beneficial microbes. Produced bio-fertilizers are now utilized in different crops: upland rice, banana and vegetables by farmer-cooperators of the university assisted projects in Nueva Vizcaya. Also, principles of organic agriculture and EM technology were integrated in Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (BSA) curriculum of the College of Agriculture. The integration would empower students in knowing the importance of organic farming with microorganisms to nature's building and conservation. Capturing the benefits of soil biological activity for sustainable and productive agriculture requires better understanding of linkages among soil life and ecosystem function and impacts of human interventions open new opportunities for more in-depth researches in the future.