Taichung City subsidizes farmers to process rice straw, curb burning

Taichung City's Agriculture Bureau has launched a program to subsidize farmers for processing rice straw, offering up to NT$2,000 per hectare. The initiative encourages farmers to cut and till straw into the soil or use it with organic fertilizers containing straw decomposers, aiming to reduce open burning that causes air pollution and traffic hazards.

The subsidy combines NT$1,000 per hectare for straw cutting and tilling with an additional NT$1,000 per hectare for using organic fertilizers with straw decomposers, promoted by the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Administration. This program, accepting applications for the first rice crop until July 31, aims to accelerate straw decomposition, increase soil organic matter, and enhance soil fertility. It also promotes the use of domestically produced organic fertilizers, reducing chemical fertilizer use and supporting sustainable agriculture.

Farmers are urged to avoid open burning of rice straw, branches, or leaves, as violations of the "Air Pollution Control Act" can result in fines ranging from NT$1,200 to NT$100,000, along with the forfeiture of any subsidies received. Furthermore, repeated offenses of open burning on the same field, after receiving two written notices, can lead to disqualification from agricultural subsidies for up to a year, including public grain procurement and environmental basic payments.

The city emphasizes that proper straw management, through tilling, decomposition, or collection for reuse, is crucial for maintaining public safety and protecting farmers' rights. This effort aligns with national goals for environmental protection and sustainable agricultural practices.