Assembly Member Hang Changsoo Criticizes 75.6% Execution Rate of Agricultural By-Product Disposal Project, Urges Improvement from Agricultural Research and Extension Services

Issues Raised During Administrative Audit of Agricultural Research and Extension Services

Hang Changsoo, Gangwon Provincial Assembly Member. Provided by Gangwon Provincial Assembly

On November 12, Hang Changsoo, a member of the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Provincial Assembly (representing Hoengseong 1), pointed out the low execution rate and lack of promotion of the Agricultural By-Product Safe Disposal Support Project, as well as the insufficient expertise of personnel involved in pest and disease control projects, during the administrative audit of the Agricultural Research and Extension Services at the 342nd regular session.

The shredding of agricultural by-products is an essential project that not only prevents ecosystem pollution caused by incineration, but also contributes to wildfire prevention, reduction of fine dust, and soil restoration through composting, thereby promoting resource circulation. However, according to the administrative audit data, as of 2024, the project execution rate was 75.6%, which is significantly lower than that of other Agricultural Research and Extension Services projects, which exceed 90%.

Hang Changsoo stated, "We need to thoroughly analyze whether the cause of the low execution rate lies in equipment procurement, personnel management, or administrative procedures, and come up with improvement measures." He also requested, "Given the characteristics of rural areas in the province, where many farmers are elderly, a tightly-knit promotional network should be established at the township and village level so that elderly and vulnerable farmers can easily apply for and utilize the program."

In addition, regarding pest and disease control projects, he emphasized, "Although the occurrence of pests and diseases is increasing day by day due to climate change, the expertise of monitoring and control personnel remains insufficient." He stressed the need to foster specialized personnel through professional training and to expand the deployment of monitoring and control staff in line with the timing of pest and disease outbreaks.