Overview
This lecture details Miss Cathy Martinez's early experiences as an information officer for the Azolla as Fertilizer Project, highlighting both technical aspects of azolla and her immersion in rural communities.
Introduction to Azolla and the Project
- Cathy Martinez began her job as information officer for the Department of Agriculture's Azolla as Fertilizer Project on October 1, 1980.
- She was tasked with reading about azolla, using books, journals, clippings, and the project's newsletter, Azolla News.
- Cathy is in charge of managing and producing the project newsletter.
Uses and Benefits of Azolla
- Azolla is a flexible fern used as green manure for rice and compost for crops, vegetables, and ornamentals.
- It can be applied fresh or as "enzaldozola" (enzyme azolla) and serves as a protein source for ducks, fish, swine, and chickens.
- Research suggests more uses, including mosquito population control and water purification.
- Azolla helps farmers save on chemical fertilizers by serving as a natural alternative.
Challenges and Field Observations
- Field workers report that farmers find cultivating azolla laborious, affecting its adoption.
- Cathy intends to investigate farmer attitudes during her field visit to Bangar.
Field Visit Experience
- On October 7, 1980, Cathy and colleagues traveled by public transportation due to lack of project vehicles.
- Jeep rides were uncomfortable but memorable, exposing Cathy to rural life and local customs.
- The group was warmly welcomed by locals, experienced local language and culture, and shared meals such as chicken tinola and rice wine (pasi).
Key Terms & Definitions
- Azolla — A small aquatic fern used in agriculture as green manure and animal feed.
- Green manure — Crop grown to be incorporated into soil to increase fertility.
- Enzaldozola — Fermented or enzyme-treated azolla used as animal feed.
- Barangay — The smallest administrative division in the Philippines, similar to a village.
- Chicken Tinola — A traditional Filipino chicken soup with vegetables.
- Pasi — Local term for rice wine.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Continue reading and collecting information on azolla's applications.
- Prepare and manage content for the upcoming issues of the Azolla newsletter.
- Visit field sites to better understand farmer experiences and barriers to azolla use.