Junior Salong, a Soil Specialist, has urged farmers to understand the fertility status of the soil they are farming on.

Salong said that knowing soil fertility is essential for farmers who are part of the Agriculture Permit system, as it directly impacts crop production.

A team of soil specialists from the Department of Agriculture, together with three scientists from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia, is currently conducting a soil survey across Efate Island.

“This work is to help farmers understand the fertility status of their soil, which is directly related to the production of their gardens. They must know this, and it is very important,” Salong said.

The survey aims to provide farmers with crucial information to improve crop yields and farm management practices.