Alternative Controlling OPT

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 73 views

Analysis of Organochlor's Pesticide Residue Content on Community Agricultural Land in Barus Ginger District, North Sumatra Regency

Introduction

The use of pesticides has become a common practice among farmers in various regions, including Barus Ginger District, Karo Regency, North Sumatra. However, the widespread use of pesticides has raised concerns about the potential risks to public health and the environment. This study aims to analyze the content of organochlor pesticide residues in agricultural land in Barus Ginger District, with a focus on understanding the level of pesticide residues and their potential impact on the community.

Background

Pesticides are widely used by farmers to control plant-distrubing organisms (OPT) that can damage crops. However, the use of pesticides can also lead to the accumulation of residues in the soil, which can have negative impacts on human health and the environment. In Indonesia, the use of pesticides is regulated by Government Regulation No. 85 of 1999, which sets standards for the quality of pesticides and their residues in the environment.

Methodology

This study was conducted from April to May 2003, using a survey and questionnaire method to collect data from farmers, pesticide sales agents, and field agricultural extension officers (PPL). A total of 10 questionnaires were distributed to farmers, which is 5% of the total agricultural population in the region. Two farmers' land was selected as the location of soil sampling based on the level of use of pesticides, namely high and low categories.

Results

The results of the analysis of the two soil samples show that the content of organochlor pesticide residues is still detected. Based on the data obtained, it was found that DDT is the most residue in both samples, while other types of pesticide residues indicate an average level of <0.1 NG/g. However, when compared to the quality standards listed in Government Regulation No. 85 of 1999, there are pesticide residues such as heptachlor, aldrin, endrin, and chlordan which exceeded the specified limits.

Discussion

The use of pesticides among farmers in Barus Ginger shows a fairly high frequency of use, which is 3-5 days for annual crops and every 7-10 days for annual plants. This illustrates farmers' dependence on pesticides as an effort to overcome plant pests and diseases, even though the risk of residues in the land is a serious concern. The results of this study highlight the need for farmers to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices, such as using proper pesticides and safe amounts, to reduce the negative impact of residues on soil, water, and human health.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the level of organochlor pesticide residues in agricultural land in Barus Ginger District, North Sumatra. The results show that the use of pesticides has led to the accumulation of residues in the soil, which can have negative impacts on human health and the environment. Therefore, it is essential for farmers to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices, such as using proper pesticides and safe amounts, to reduce the negative impact of residues on soil, water, and human health.

Recommendations

Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are made:

Education and Training: Farmers should be educated and trained on the proper use of pesticides and the risks associated with their use.
Alternative Controlling OPT: Farmers should be encouraged to adopt alternative controlling OPT methods that are more environmentally friendly.
Counseling and Programs: Counseling and other programs should be implemented to replace the use of chemical pesticides with a more natural solution.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation of pesticide residues in the soil should be conducted to ensure that the levels of residues are within the acceptable limits.

Future Research Directions

This study highlights the need for further research on the impact of pesticide residues on human health and the environment. Future research should focus on:

Long-term Effects: The long-term effects of pesticide residues on human health and the environment should be investigated.
Alternative Controlling OPT: Alternative controlling OPT methods that are more environmentally friendly should be developed and tested.
Sustainable Agricultural Practices: Sustainable agricultural practices that reduce the negative impact of residues on soil, water, and human health should be developed and promoted.

Limitations of the Study

This study has several limitations, including:

Small Sample Size: The sample size of this study is small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Limited Data Collection: The data collection method used in this study may not be comprehensive, which may limit the accuracy of the findings.
Limited Analysis: The analysis of the data collected in this study may not be comprehensive, which may limit the interpretation of the findings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the level of organochlor pesticide residues in agricultural land in Barus Ginger District, North Sumatra. The results show that the use of pesticides has led to the accumulation of residues in the soil, which can have negative impacts on human health and the environment. Therefore, it is essential for farmers to adopt more sustainable agricultural practices, such as using proper pesticides and safe amounts, to reduce the negative impact of residues on soil, water, and human health.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Organochlor Pesticide Residues in Agricultural Land

Q: What are organochlor pesticides?

A: Organochlor pesticides are a type of pesticide that contains chlorine and is used to control pests and diseases in crops. They are commonly used in agriculture to protect crops from pests and diseases.

Q: What are the risks associated with organochlor pesticide residues?

A: The use of organochlor pesticides has been linked to several health risks, including cancer, neurological damage, and reproductive problems. Exposure to these residues can also contaminate soil, water, and air, posing a risk to the environment.

Q: How do organochlor pesticide residues accumulate in the soil?

A: Organochlor pesticide residues can accumulate in the soil through various means, including:

Direct application: Pesticides are applied directly to the soil, where they can persist for years.
Runoff: Pesticides can run off into nearby waterways, contaminating soil and water.
Volatilization: Pesticides can evaporate into the air, where they can be carried by wind and deposited on soil and water.

Q: What are the symptoms of exposure to organochlor pesticide residues?

A: Exposure to organochlor pesticide residues can cause a range of symptoms, including:

Neurological problems: Headaches, dizziness, and confusion.
Reproductive problems: Infertility, miscarriage, and birth defects.
Cancer: Increased risk of cancer, particularly in the liver, kidney, and brain.

Q: How can I reduce my exposure to organochlor pesticide residues?

A: To reduce your exposure to organochlor pesticide residues, follow these tips:

Choose organic produce: Opt for organic produce, which is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides.
Wash produce thoroughly: Wash all produce thoroughly before consumption.
Avoid eating produce with visible pesticide residues: Avoid eating produce with visible pesticide residues.
Use protective gear: Wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, when handling pesticides.

Q: What can I do to reduce the risk of pesticide residues in my community?

A: To reduce the risk of pesticide residues in your community, follow these tips:

Advocate for sustainable agriculture: Support sustainable agriculture practices that reduce the use of synthetic pesticides.
Educate yourself and others: Learn about the risks associated with pesticide residues and educate others in your community.
Support local farmers: Support local farmers who use sustainable agriculture practices.
Participate in community initiatives: Participate in community initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture and reduce the use of synthetic pesticides.

Q: What are some alternative methods for controlling pests and diseases in crops?

A: Some alternative methods for controlling pests and diseases in crops include:

Integrated pest management (IPM): A holistic approach to managing pests and diseases that combines physical, cultural, biological, and chemical controls.
Biological control: Using natural predators or parasites to control pests.
Cultural control: Using techniques such as crop rotation, sanitation, and pruning to control pests and diseases.
Organic pesticides: Using natural pesticides, such as neem oil and pyrethrin, to control pests.

Q: What can I do to support sustainable agriculture in my community?

A: To support sustainable agriculture in your community, follow these tips:

Advocate for sustainable agriculture policies: Support policies that promote sustainable agriculture practices.
Support local farmers: Support local farmers who use sustainable agriculture practices.
Educate yourself and others: Learn about the benefits of sustainable agriculture and educate others in your community.
Participate in community initiatives: Participate in community initiatives that promote sustainable agriculture and reduce the use of synthetic pesticides.