Simplification of the Philippine soil series identification for rice and corn cultivation [in Isabela, Negros Occidental and Cotabato, Philippines]

Soil Survey Report (SSR) is the product of soil surveying that provides information related to the potential and limitations of the soil to crop growth and has been invented to help farmers in the management of soils. Soil survey is an integral part of an effective agricultural research and advisory program playing an important role in the planning of research especially in the selection and location of experimental fields (soil survey manual, 1951). Unfortunately, the use of soil surveying is seldom realized because of the problem of presentation of the report which is considered highly technical and can be too complicated to ordinary farmers. Hence, the general intension of the project is to develop a simple guide to identify soil series in the field to compliment available soil survey report. Five general steps were undertaken: collection, collation and interpretation of available secondary data on soil series; correlation and validation of the soil morphological description; classification of individual soils at series and family level; design and development of guidebooks as key to soil series identification and pre-evaluation, training and dissemination of guidebook. The 'Keys to Soil Series' is a guidebook which simplifies the identification of soils in the field. With the soil series probably recognized, a database which includes compilation of thematic information related to the use of soils especially in crop production (e.g. selection of suitable crops, fertilizer recommendation and other crop growth promoting management strategies) can be consulted by farmers, extension agents, researchers and other interested parties depending on their respective needs. The guidebook for Isabela has been prepared and validated in the field attended by the farmers, technicians and researchers from the province. Draft copy of guidebook for Negros Occidental has been completed but needs to be validated. Preparation of guidebook for North Cotabato needs soil and chemical analysis for completion.