Qualification Level: TESDA NC I – Sustainable Agarwood Production
Crop Focus: Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.)
Objective: Safely store and handle Agarwood resin and wood to maintain quality, fragrance, and market value
I. INTRODUCTION
Agarwood resin is fragile and sensitive to environmental conditions. Improper storage or handling can reduce fragrance, degrade resin quality, and lower market value.
Proper storage practices also protect against pests, contamination, and moisture damage.
II. STORAGE PRINCIPLES
- Cool and dry environment – Minimize heat and humidity to prevent mold or resin degradation
- Clean and contaminant-free – Avoid soil, dust, and microbial contamination
- Segregation by quality – Separate resin by grade, tree ID, or harvest batch
- Minimal handling – Reduce friction or crushing to preserve wood structure and aroma
- Traceability – Maintain records of harvest date, tree ID, and storage location
III. STORAGE OF RESIN
| Factor | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Containers | Airtight jars, sealed glass bottles, or food-grade plastic containers |
| Environment | Dark, cool room; avoid direct sunlight or heat sources |
| Moisture control | Silica gel packets or dry storage to prevent mold |
| Segregation | Label by tree ID, harvest date, and resin grade |
| Handling | Use gloves or clean tools; avoid crushing or mixing batches |
IV. STORAGE OF WOOD
| Factor | Best Practice |
|---|---|
| Stacking | Keep wood off the ground using pallets; ensure airflow to prevent mold |
| Protection | Cover with breathable tarps; avoid plastic wrapping that traps moisture |
| Segregation | Store inoculated or resin-rich wood separately from untreated wood |
| Inspection | Regularly check for pests, mold, or excessive drying cracks |
| Handling | Lift gently; avoid dropping or scraping to maintain resin integrity |
V. HANDLING DURING TRANSPORT
- Use padded or compartmentalized containers to prevent movement and friction
- Minimize temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight exposure
- Keep resin separate from soil, chemicals, or other strong odors
- Use labeling for traceability during transport to buyers or processing facilities
VI. QUALITY CONTROL
- Inspect resin color, density, and fragrance periodically
- Record losses, damage, or contamination incidents
- Separate low-quality or contaminated resin for composting or low-grade uses
- Maintain inventory records for each batch
VII. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS
- Wear gloves when handling resin to prevent contamination
- Avoid inhaling dust from resin or wood dust
- Keep storage areas clean to prevent pests or microbial growth
- Ensure good ventilation in enclosed storage areas
VIII. BEST PRACTICES CHECKLIST
☐ Store resin in airtight, labeled containers
☐ Maintain cool, dry, dark storage conditions
☐ Separate resin by quality, harvest batch, and tree ID
☐ Handle wood gently; avoid crushing or dropping
☐ Regularly inspect for mold, pests, or contamination
☐ Maintain detailed records of storage conditions, batches, and quality
☐ Ensure safe handling procedures for personnel
IX. TESDA NC I PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Learner must demonstrate ability to:
- Properly store Agarwood resin and wood
- Handle harvested products safely to maintain quality
- Monitor storage conditions and inspect for pests or contamination
- Maintain traceable records of storage, handling, and inventory
Key Takeaway: Proper storage and handling preserves resin aroma, wood integrity, and market value, supports sustainable production, and reduces losses from contamination, pests, or degradation.