Counseling and Application of Appropriate Technology for Cultivating Mushrooms Using Wood Media for Agricultural Diversification in Cekel Hamlet, Jetis, Saptosari, Gunungkidul

Abstract

As one of the southern regions of Gunungkidul, Kapanewon Saptosari, especially in Cekel Hamlet, Jetis Sub-district, experiences water shortages in the dry season for agricultural activities in the fields. Another agricultural problem in the Kapanewon Saptosari area is the disturbance from monkeys from the Sodong Forest area that damage and eat agricultural products. On the other hand, the potential for sawdust waste is quite abundant in the area. Therefore, one of the alternatives to be developed is the cultivation of consumption mushrooms using sawdust media. However, so far the youth have not understood the mushroom cultivation method and the effect of wood type on mushroom growth. The extension program and the application of appropriate technology for mushroom cultivation aim to increase the knowledge of youth groups in Cekel Hamlet about mushroom cultivation technology and utilize existing sawdust waste. Counseling and mentoring activities are carried out to youth to provide knowledge related to the mushroom cultivation process. The results of the service showed that there was an increase in youth understanding and knowledge about mushroom cultivation methods by 80%. The youth also became aware of the application of appropriate technology in the pretreatment process of sawdust that will be used as mushroom cultivation media. In addition, getting acquainted and knowing the success stories of mushroom farmers also makes youth and communities more confident and optimistic.