After weeks of meticulous planning and hard work, the College of Agriculture, under the leadership of Dr. Balbina Gutierrez, alongside her dedicated faculty members, including Prof. Judith Calangian (Chairperson), Prof. Jennifer Gangan, Mr. Lester Arandia, Mr. Clarence Catambing, Mme. Shayna Mae Yadao, and Mr. Erwin Baguise, has celebrated its first-ever successful harvest of Volvariella volvacea, commonly known as paddy straw mushroom or straw mushroom.
Dr. Marie Claire B. Briones, Campus Executive Director, together with experts from COAgri, visited the cultivation site to witness the abundant yield of Volvariella volvacea mushrooms earlier today.
This milestone is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the COAgri team, who have been diligently nurturing the College’s Mushroom Project. The project provides valuable opportunities for agriculture students who have undergone TESDA training to apply their knowledge in agronomy and mycology, all while contributing to sustainable food production.
In the pursuit of sustainable food production, COAgri utilized fifteen well-structured plots composed of layered-dried banana leaves, sealed with pliable and easily shaped materials. This innovative approach not only ensures a healthy and productive mushroom cultivation but also aligns with eco-friendly practices.
The successful harvest of Volvariella mushrooms is a promising step towards integrating sustainable food production practices into the College of Agriculture’s initiatives. As the institution continues to explore innovative methods and contribute to food security, this accomplishment serves as a shining example of their commitment to agricultural excellence and environmental stewardship.
