Suwon City Agricultural Technology Center Installs Unmanned Soil Sample Collection Box

[Suwon Ilbo=Reporter Seo Dong-young] Suwon City announced on the 8th that it has installed an 'unmanned soil sample collection box' to enable farmers to apply for soil testing on farmland in a non-contact manner to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Suwon City Agricultural Technology Center operates a free 'soil testing project' for local farmers to analyze the soil nutrient status and composition of farmland. Soil testing involves collecting soil samples and conducting precise analysis of soil components including acidity (pH), electrical conductivity (EC), organic matter, and available phosphorus.

Farmers wishing to have their soil analyzed should collect 500g to 1kg of soil, place it in a bag, write farming information such as name, phone number, crop type, and lot number, and place it in the soil sample collection box located at the main entrance of the Suwon City Agricultural Technology Center (45 Onjeong-ro, Gwonseon-gu). The Agricultural Technology Center will notify the requesting farmers of the results via email or mail within 2 to 3 weeks.

The Suwon City Agricultural Technology Center conducts soil testing for approximately 700 samples annually. After analysis, it issues a 'fertilizer application prescription sheet' to the requesting farmers that customized information on soil nutrient status and appropriate fertilizer amounts for each crop.

Soil testing data is digitalized and used for establishing soil management systems, preserving soil environment, organic product certification, and providing customized fertilizer support. By accurately determining the necessary fertilizer amount for each crop, it helps with the practice of 'low-cost farming' and 'eco-friendly farming.'

For inquiries, contact the Eco-Friendly Agriculture Management Division of the Suwon City Agricultural Technology Center (031-228-2557).