The monitoring and impact assessment of mushroom production was successfully conducted from October 21 to 28, 2024. The initiative aimed to evaluate the progress and address concerns related to mushroom cultivation and production in various irrigators’ associations.
The assessment began with a visit to the Cayetano Malanog Irrigators’ Association in Dinagat Islands. Led by Ms. Shema Soliva, Institutional Development Officer of Dinagat Islands, the team conducted an evaluation at Cayetano. The IA President, Mr. Loresco, provided a tour of the mushroom cultivation and production area, including the mushroom house. The association showcased their homemade sterilizer and demonstrated their process of arranging and handling mushroom bags. The team also addressed concerns and demonstrated effective management practices for maintaining the mushroom housing. The team then proceeded to the San Roque Ayog Irrigators’ Association in Siargao, warmly welcomed by their Institutional Development Officer, Ms. Rowela Consigna. President Mr. Salvaloza presented their production setup. The team identified issues such as contaminated fruiting bags and provided solutions to improve sanitation and management. They also offered guidance on promoting their mushroom products in the local market. At the Trinidad-Km Trese Irrigators’ Association, President Ms. Revil shared their experiences. They faced challenges with mushroom bag management and moisture control. The team provided hands-on assistance and advice on optimizing their mushroom housing to reduce contamination and maintain ideal conditions for growth. The Tigbaoan Roxas Irrigators’ Association, led by President Ms. Tirasol, showcased impressive progress, with their production boasting the most colonized fruiting bags among the associations visited. They reported fewer issues, attributing their success to the training they had received and diligent implementation of recommended practices.
The series of training and monitoring sessions greatly influenced the production and management of mushroom cultivation across all beneficiary associations. Issues raised during the visits, such as proper handling and contamination prevention, were effectively addressed. The irrigators’ associations expressed their gratitude to Surigao del Norte State University (SNSU), the National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Caraga for their ongoing support and technical guidance. The collaboration between these institutions has reinforced the associations’ capacity to sustain and expand mushroom production, demonstrating the power of training and impact assessment in achieving sustainable agricultural development.
