By Kenneth Marcos 
Fields in harvest season are alive with activity, but experts in the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) remind farmers: never burn rice straw.
Straw is more than crop waste—it’s a treasure trove of nutrients. Rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur, silicon, and carbon, it can naturally improve soil health and boost future harvests.
Instead of burning, farmers can turn straw into organic fertilizer or use it as a substrate for mushroom cultivation, creating extra income while keeping the land fertile. These sustainable practices help maintain productive soils, reduce air pollution, and support long-term farm profitability.
DA and BSWM continue to promote environmentally friendly farming methods, encouraging communities to adopt practices that protect the soil and contribute to a healthier agricultural landscape. By valuing what was once considered waste, Filipino farmers secure both their livelihood and the future of their farms.
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