DESIGN AND PERFORMANCE TEST OF APPROPRIATE ON-FARM COMPOSTING PACKAGE FOR SMALL FARMERS

In Indonesia, the active participation of farmers is fundamental to gain the multiple benefits of organic waste treatment via composting. Currently, small farmer involvement in composting practice has still low because of limited access to appropriate technologies. Minimum supply of appropriate facility increased the probability of ineffective organic waste treatment. The main aim of this research is to create appropriate on-farm composting package for small farmers by adopting NOL (non-odorous and low maintenance) principles in the whole composting process with minimum input of raw materials. The composting package maximizes goat housing with raised slatted floor function to become the major device with composting bin as a complement. The research showed that composting can be done with the minimum input of raw materials and maintenance. Overall, the majority of nutrient content of the composting products complied national quality standard [SNI 19-7030-2004] and decree of agricultural minister [Permentan No. 70/2011] so that it could be applied safely for the agricultural land especially for the horticultural plant. Therefore, this package is highly recommended for small farmers to assist composting practice with effective and efficient ways in developing countries.