Organic Compost Fertilizer: Agricultural Transformation in Tebo Farmers Union

Tebo Farmers Union (STT) is a farmer organization in Lubuk Mandarsah Ulu Village, Tengah Ilir District, Tebo Regency, Jambi. STT seeks to improve the welfare of its members through advocacy for agrarian reform, independent resource management, and the implementation of sustainable production models. One of their main initiatives is the Desa Maju Reforma Agraria (DaMaRA) program, which focuses on composting and mapping Priority Locations for Agrarian Reform (LPRA), supported by the Nusantara Fund Direct Funding.

The program began with a working meeting involving members of four farmer groups. The discussion aimed to develop a technical plan, distribute roles, and ensure that all members understand the implementation strategy. After planning, LPRA mapping was carried out in Dusun Kelapa Kembar using a participatory method, involving the community and supported by the National LPRA Team from the Agrarian Reform Consortium (KPA). This activity also consolidates LPRA subject and object data. Land ownership data and plot mapping are carried out in detail to support the advocacy process and resolution of agrarian conflicts. This data strengthens STT's position in fighting for land rights and ensuring equitable land management.

Compost making training is also the core of the program. STT members are trained to choose the right organic materials, process them with the right techniques, and maintain the quality of the compost. With this expertise, STT member farmers can reduce their dependence on chemical fertilizers that have a negative impact on the environment. Independent compost production also allows for cost savings and increased yields in a more environmentally friendly way.

After the training, the community built a compost house by working together. STT members also assembled a fertilizer production machine with guidance from those with technical expertise. This machine speeds up the process and capacity of compost production.

Once the compost house and equipment are ready, fertilizer production begins. The compost produced comes from plant residues and organic waste, reducing waste and creating a sustainable production cycle. This fertilizer also improves soil structure and increases the soil's ability to retain water, which ultimately reduces the risk of erosion and drought. The production results are distributed to STT members to be used on agricultural land, while the rest is sold to the surrounding community. Profits from sales are used to support STT's strategic activities and additional capital for the compost house.

In the midst of the struggle for agrarian justice, STT continues to strive to build an independent and sustainable production model. This initiative not only strengthens the economic independence of farmers, but is also part of a long-term strategy in the agrarian reform movement, ensuring that communities can manage their own resources fairly and sustainably.