PEMBERDAYAAN KELOMPOK TANI MELALUI PRODUKSI KOMPOS KAYABANG BERBASIS TEKNOLOGI TEPAT GUNA

Abstract

Kayabang is a type of aquatic plant commonly found in rivers and shallow waters. When its growth becomes too rapid and covers the water surface, kayabang can disrupt river flow, inhibit sunlight penetration, and reduce environmental aesthetics. This community service activity aimed to empower the Harapan Bersama Farmer Group in utilizing kayabang as a raw material for organic compost production through appropriate technology. The program was implemented through socialization, raw material collection, fabrication and application of chopping and draining equipment, compost production training, skill observation, and activity evaluation. The empowerment level was measured using a 20-item pre-test and post-test instrument covering kayabang characteristics, compost utilization, composting stages, and equipment operation. The results showed an increase in the overall score from 44.25% (Level 3/fair) to 87.50% (Level 5/very good). Partner skill observations also indicated that members were able to participate in raw material preparation, equipment operation, composting, and simple product packaging. The economic calculation indicated a potential saving of Rp250,000 per processing cycle compared with herbicide-based control. These findings show that kayabang compost production has the potential to improve partner capacity, support local organic fertilizer production, and become an initial alternative for reducing dependence on inorganic fertilizers and herbicides, although actual reductions require further monitoring across planting cycles.