TABELA AND FISH FARMING ARE LOCAL WISDOMS ETHNIC SUMATERA FOR SUPPORTED ON SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE IN NORTH SUMATERA, INDONESIA

Abstract

Direct seeding (Tabela) and fish farming (Minapadi), traditional methods used for produce
paddy plantation and animal proteins for sustainable food security in Northern Sumatra were
done. This study was conducted using a combination of methods to the study of literature
(data collectively in USU Library and library of USM) and observations in the fields (lowland
and terrace from Langkat district and Smalungun district were conducted since December
2016 to March 2017. As much as two types of rice crops (Ciherang and IR 64) are cultivated
showed the status (prey and predator) of insects in Langkat and Simalungun districts
respectively. Direct Seed (Tabela) in Langkat agroecosystems applied to irrigated rice, rainfed and
tidal land is an alternative model of technology and integrated crop management approach is
environmentally friendly. Besides, fish farming (Minapadi) was done in Simalungun district
consumed by the family farmers and partly as sold as additional revenue. The problems are
identified from Tabela and Minapadi farmers in Langkat and Simalungun, consist of technology
advice is difficult; do not answer problems; innovation technology creates new problems for
farmers due to lack of appropriate with the socio-economic-culture;
application of technology requires a high cost while remuneration derived less adequate;
systems and counseling strategies are still weak so not able to convey the message properly;
indifference farmers to offer new technologies; the existence of uncertainty in control of
resources. Food security system with integrated farming through seeded fields and fish farming
the concept on three of the management, such as integrated crop management, integrated pest
management and integrated nutrient management based on local knowledge should be cultivated
and preserved in Indonesia. The importance of communication, improve interpretation and
knowledge of paddy farmers, the adoption of technology and infrastructure empowerment in
agriculture, especially in North of Sumatera was increasing the productivity of rice farmers in
Northern Sumatra.