Climate change and the deterioration of land conditions are creating new challenges for farmers in Kyrgyzstan. In an interview with a journalist from VB.KG, the head of the Central Asia Agricultural Resources Research Laboratory at KNAU, candidate of biological sciences, and associate professor Roza Orozakunova explained why the results of soil laboratory analysis are becoming more important for farmers than weather forecasts. She also noted that according to legislation, every farmer is required to conduct an agrochemical analysis of their land at least once every five years.
According to Orozakunova, climate change poses one of the main threats to the agricultural sector. The increase in average annual temperatures, the rise in the number of droughts, uneven distribution of precipitation, and extreme weather conditions significantly affect soil conditions and, consequently, crop yields. In such conditions, monitoring soil fertility and applying scientific approaches to its use become particularly relevant.
The laboratory conducts detailed analyses of soil samples collected directly from farmers' fields. Based on the research results, seven key indicators are determined that help objectively assess soil fertility and its resilience to climate changes.
The content of humus is one of the most important indicators, as it is the basis of soil fertility and a crucial factor in retaining moisture and nutrients. In the context of climate change, humus acts as a "buffer" that mitigates the negative impacts of droughts and sharp temperature fluctuations. The presence of essential nutrients—nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, including their mobile forms that are most accessible to plants—is also analyzed. This data helps determine how effectively the soil can support plants under stress conditions.
Additionally, the mechanical composition of the soil is assessed using field methods, which directly affects its water regime, aeration, and erosion resistance. In light of the increasing frequency of rainfall and wind erosion, this parameter becomes especially important for the correct selection of agricultural technologies.
Supporting the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture to conduct agrochemical soil analysis every five years is crucial for preventing degradation and rational fertilizer selection. Regular monitoring helps timely identify nutrient deficiencies, which becomes particularly relevant in the context of climate change.
It is also extremely important to actively work on improving soil fertility and implementing effective agricultural technologies, such as organic fertilizers, minimal soil cultivation, crop rotation, green manures, and precision farming. These measures help increase humus reserves, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and enhance the resilience of agroecosystems to climate risks.
Thus, soil analysis today is not only a way to assess the condition of fields but also a strategic tool for adapting agriculture to climate change, preserving fertility, and ensuring long-term food security. In the context of Kyrgyzstan's transition to organic farming, this becomes a necessary step for all farmers," concluded Roza Orozakunova.
