Lecturers and Students from UB’s Fodder Green Laboratory Engage in Community Service: Inventory and Promotion of Leguminous Plant Potential in Gadingkulon Village

Lecturers from the Fodder Green Laboratory conducted a community service initiative focusing on “Inventory of leguminous plants and their potential as a source of food and feed protein.” The event took place in Gadingkulon Village, Dau District, Malang Regency, and was led by Rini Dwi Wahyuni, M.Sc, with team members Dr. Herni Sudarwati, Dr. Hermanto, and Ir. Hanief Eko Sulistyo, MP. Participating students included Audiava Happy Kenthida, Shafwan Rihhadatul Fauzi, and Stephani Agatha Sitorus.

“Inventory is crucial to provide a better understanding of leguminous diversity in the Gadingkulon Village area. The data obtained will serve as a foundation for developing more effective and sustainable utilization strategies,” stated Rini, the team leader. Hermanto added that the activities would continue, including the promotion of one promising legume, the sword bean.

The inventory process involved students in field surveys, identification of leguminous species, and collecting information about their cultivation locations and historical usage. Local farmers actively participated, providing essential information. “This is a positive step towards understanding the local potential of leguminous plants in our village. With accurate data, we can design more effective training programs for our farming group members,” added Miselan, the head of the farmers’ group.

The continuation of the inventory results includes the promotion of the sword bean as a commodity that can be developed as a source of protein for livestock. The outreach covers not only technical aspects but also provides information about the economic potential of leguminous plants. Farmers gain insights into potential markets and business opportunities by integrating leguminous plants into their farming systems.

The outcomes of this initiative are expected to support sustainable agriculture, increase farmers’ income, and contribute to meeting nutritional needs in the community. Additionally, this community service is considered a preliminary step toward optimizing local resources to support economic growth and the well-being of the Gadingkulon Village community. (Team/MT)