NEGROS Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson led the ceremonial turnover of the P6.9-million Myrianne Solar Powered Irrigation System in Barangay San Pablo, Manapla town Monday, July 25, 2022.
The activity was attended by Manapla Mayor Manuel Escalante III, Vice Mayor Edgar Pagayonan, Provincial Agriculturist Dr. Edmundo Raul Causing, local officials, and members of Myrianne Farmers Development Association and Myrianne Youth Farmers Organization.
The said irrigation system project integrates upland aquaculture through grow-out and aquaponic system, fertigation and drip irrigation system.
Aquaculture and aquaponic systems involve a process by which irrigation water is pumped to a reservoir, which serves as a fish tank that can culture freshwater species like tilapia.
Its estimated initial production is estimated at 75 to 80 kilograms after four months with an average weight of 166.67 grams.
The wastes or excretes of fish tilapia will also serve as an organic fertilizer in liquid form.
The drip irrigation system utilizes high density polyethylene drip tubes to moisten the root system of the plants and maximize irrigation efficiency.
The farmers plant vegetables and other high value crops in the 600-square meter farm, which is also a potential agri-tourism destination in the town. (PR)