Ground Water Front 0.6-0.8m is More Applicative

INDUSTRY.co.id - Jambi - Stipulation of groundwater level (TMA) in the range of 0.6-08m according to Permentan No.14 / 2009 should be a reference in TMA in the issuance of PP 57/2016.

"TMA 0.6-0.8 m more applicable because tested through experience and research of oil palm plantation for tens of years," said Kabid Infrastructure, facilities and protection of plantations Disbun Jambi Province. Asnelly Ridha Daulay.

The statement was expressed by Asnelly in Focus Group Discussion (FGD) in Jambi, Monday (18/12/2017). FGD themed Reconciliation understanding and strategy for the review and implementation of PP 57/2016 jo.PP 71/2014 on protection and management of peat ecosystem also presented Chairman of Sawit Community DR Darmono Taniwiryono Msc, Vice Rector of Jambi University Zulkifli Alamsyah as resource person.

Asnelly argues, TMA in the range 0.6-08 m proved better and able to encourage palm productivity. "It is unfortunate suddenly appear 0.4 m TMA and without any scientific studies. Moreover, the decision, set never involves the Ministry of Agriculture. As a result, the regulation is difficult to be socialized well, "he said.

Darmono Taniwiryono suggested that PP 57/2016 should not generalize the provision of 0.4 m water level for all types of plants. "The water level of 0.4 m can be applied to the annual crop because of its short roots. Meanwhile, oil palm plantations should ideally face ground water between 0.6-0.8 m," he said.

He also suggested, the government should be straightforward use of peat. The peat is still good to be converted. However, the damaged peat should be used for cultivation.

Government policies must be able to meet the demands of the livelihood interests of the people of Indonesia including the environment, economic, social, cultural, and legal protection as mandated by the 1945 Constitution and Sustainable Development has several objectives among them alleviating all forms of poverty in all places, ending hunger, achieving food security and nutrition improvement.

Vice Chancellor of Jambi University Zulkifli said the revision of PP 57/2016 is urgent because Jambi's economy is currently heavily influenced by the price movement of fresh fruit bunches (TBS). Palm is a mainstay commodity in Jambi. The role of self-reliant community of oil palm plantations and the presence of about 15 oil palm industries greatly affected the economy of Jambi.

"Flux price fluctuations greatly affect Jambi's economy. If the price of TBS increases, usually malls and flights to and from Jambi must be crowded. Conversely, if the price of FFB falls, the economy of Jambi is also hit," he said