OPPORTUNITIES FOR DEVELOPING STRAW MUSHROOM (Volvavierra volvacea) IN ASAHAN REGENCY

Abstract

: The agricultural sector plays a vital role in achieving food self-sufficiency and enhancing farmers' income. Among various agricultural products, vegetables, including mushrooms, have seen notable growth in production. Straw mushroom (Volvariella volvacea) cultivation holds significant economic potential in Indonesia due to its high market price, abundant availability of raw materials, and expansive market opportunities. These factors contribute to the promising future of straw mushroom farming. This study aims to analyze the income generated from straw mushroom farming and assess its feasibility. The research area was selected purposively to focus on regions with high potential for straw mushroom cultivation. Using total sampling, data were collected from all relevant participants, comprising both primary and secondary data. A Break-Even Point (BEP) analysis was employed to determine profitability and feasibility. The findings revealed a total revenue of IDR 4,314,200 per two-month harvest cycle, resulting in a net income of IDR 2,900,563. The BEP production value was calculated at 38.16 kg, while actual production reached 217 kg, significantly exceeding the BEP. This demonstrates that straw mushroom farming is not only profitable but also sustainable, presenting a compelling opportunity for expansion and economic growth in the agricultural sector.