The cultivation of beneficial microorganisms in Hwachun, Gangwon Province, has increased by approximately 60%, rising from 109 tons in 2022 to 175 tons last year. By the end of August this year, 140 tons have already been produced to meet ongoing demand from local farms.
According to Hwachun County on September 10, the county has been operating a beneficial microorganism cultivation center in the Hwachun Agricultural Industrial Complex since 2021. The target recipients are registered agricultural management entities in the region.
The cultivated microorganisms include four types: Bacillus, photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, and yeast. These are provided free of charge to crop and livestock farms.
Farmers are utilizing these microorganisms to enhance crop growth, improve soil conditions, and reduce odors in livestock facilities. Feedback indicates that the increased supply is helping to lower the use of chemical fertilizers and reduce farming costs.
Agricultural producers interested in utilizing the microorganisms can visit the center on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with their own containers, fill out an application form, and receive the cultivation liquid.
The free supply of agricultural microorganisms is part of an eco-friendly agricultural support initiative operated by several cities and counties in Gangwon Province. Hongcheon County supplies five types of microorganisms, including photosynthetic bacteria, year-round, while Hoengseong County produces over 200 tons of microorganisms annually. Yanggu County is enhancing accessibility for farmers by utilizing various supply points across towns and villages.
Last year's production in Hwachun is significant compared to other major cultivation facilities in the province. Notably, Hwachun differentiates itself by recycling some of the mountain trout collected after the Sancheoneo Festival as agricultural materials.
The county supplies an eco-friendly fish fermentation liquid made from mountain trout at a price of 1,500 won per liter. This product has received organic agricultural material certification.
Recently, it has been noted that not only farmers but also local mountain trout farms are seeking supplies of the microorganism cultivation liquid. If this demand is met, the center's support scope is expected to expand from agriculture and livestock to aquaculture.
Kim Se-hoon, the mayor of Hwachun, stated, “We are striving for stable production and supply of beneficial microorganisms to ensure their diverse use in agricultural settings. We will support efforts to reduce farming costs and enhance income.”
* This article has been translated by AI.
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