Test Results Must Be Kept for Three Years
Protecting the Agricultural Environment
Gochang County in North Jeolla Province is offering free year-round testing for the maturity of livestock manure compost and liquid fertilizer for livestock farmers.
According to the county on the 16th, livestock farmers who wish to have their compost or liquid fertilizer tested can collect a sample and visit the Soil Testing Laboratory on the 2nd floor of the Demonstration Farm at the Gochang County Agricultural Technology Center.
To collect a compost sample, take more than 2kg from 5 to 10 different spots in the compost pile, mix them thoroughly, and then place about 500g into the designated sample bag.
According to the "Act on the Management and Use of Livestock Manure," farms smaller than 1,500 square meters are required to undergo a maturity test once a year, while those larger than 1,500 square meters must do so every six months. The results must be kept for three years.
However, farms that entrust their livestock manure to a livestock manure recycling company are exempt from this testing requirement.
Go Misuk, head of the county's Environmental Sanitation Division, stated, "If the maturity test is not conducted or the compost does not meet the required standards, a fine of up to 10 million KRW may be imposed in accordance with the law. As this is an essential procedure for protecting the agricultural environment and ensuring sustainable development in Gochang agriculture, I urge everyone to comply with the legal requirements and actively participate in proper livestock manure management."
Meanwhile, the county has produced banners promoting the free compost and liquid fertilizer maturity testing service and posted them in 14 towns and villages throughout the area.
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