DINAMIKA FUNGSI KELOMPOK TANI DALAM USAHATANI KANGKUNG: KELAS BELAJAR, KERJA SAMA, DAN UNIT PRODUKSI DI DESA LAMBUSA KECAMATAN KONDA KABUPATEN KONAWE SELATAN

Abstrak

Water spinach farming has considerable potential to be developed as a horticultural activity that contributes to farmers’ income. However, its success depends not only on farmers’ individual capacity to manage cultivation activities but also on the presence of institutions capable of supporting learning, cooperation, and production activities. Farmer groups play strategic roles as learning classes, forums for cooperation, and production units, although the implementation of these three functions may vary in intensity. This study aims to analyze the dynamics of farmer group functions in water spinach farming, focusing on their roles as learning classes, forums for cooperation, and production units in Lambusa Village, Konda District, South Konawe Regency. The study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive design. The research location was purposively selected, while informants were selected through purposive sampling based on their relevant knowledge and experience related to the research focus. The research focused on the functions of farmer groups in water spinach farming. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation, and were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman, consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that the function of farmer groups as learning classes is reflected in meetings, discussions, and the exchange of knowledge and experiences concerning seed selection, land preparation, fertilization, pest management, harvesting, and marketing. However, the learning process remains strongly influenced by individual experience, and group activities have not yet been implemented optimally. The function of farmer groups as forums for cooperation is reflected in mutual assistance in land preparation, the exchange of labor and information, facilitation of production inputs, and deliberation in resolving problems. Meanwhile, the function of farmer groups as production units has supported cultivation planning, provision of production inputs, and skills development through agricultural extension and training, but remains suboptimal in collective post-production management and marketing. Strengthening farmer groups should therefore focus on improving the consistency of collective learning, coordination of production activities, and development of collective marketing to reinforce institutional functions in supporting the sustainability of water spinach farming.

Kata kunci

• Farmer Groups
• Learning Class
• Production unit
• Water Spinach Farming
• cooperation