Qualification Level: TESDA NC I – Sustainable Resin Harvesting
Crop Focus: Agarwood (Aquilaria spp.)
Objective: Harvest Agarwood resin while maintaining wood integrity, tree health, and high market value
I. PRINCIPLES
- Selective harvesting – Only remove resin-rich portions to maximize yield and preserve tree structure.
- Minimize tree stress – Avoid excessive cutting or damage that can compromise future resin cycles.
- Maintain resin quality – Harvest methods should prevent contamination, crushing, or degradation of resin.
- Safety and efficiency – Use appropriate tools and techniques to protect workers and tree health.
II. HARVEST TIMING
- Harvest when resin indicators are met: dark heartwood streaks, resin exudation, density, and aroma
- Avoid harvesting too early (low-quality resin) or too late (risk of pest infestation or resin degradation)
- Coordinate harvesting with dry or low-rain periods to prevent contamination and wood decay
III. HARVEST TECHNIQUES
| Technique | Method | Benefits | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selective carving / chiseling | Carefully carve resin-rich areas using hand tools (chisels, knives) | Preserves remaining heartwood and tree structure | Work slowly; avoid cutting healthy tissue |
| Core sampling / coring | Extract cylindrical wood cores containing resin | Minimal tree damage; allows multiple harvest cycles | Use sanitized coring tools; record tree ID and location |
| Sectional logging | Remove large branches or stems with high resin content | Maximizes resin collection | Only for mature trees; ensure proper replanting or tree replacement |
| Scraping / shaving | Remove surface resin from inoculation sites | Non-destructive; preserves overall wood integrity | Repeatable over time; good for small-scale harvests |
| Mechanical extraction (low-impact) | Use specialized hand drills or augers for resin retrieval | Controlled penetration; reduces overcutting | Limit to trained operators; maintain tool hygiene |
IV. PRE-HARVEST PREPARATION
- Inspect trees – Identify resin-rich zones
- Sanitize tools – Prevent fungal contamination or spread of pests
- Clear workspace – Remove debris and maintain stable footing
- Mark harvest zones – Ensure selective removal without compromising tree stability
- Prepare storage containers – Keep harvested resin separated from soil and moisture
V. POST-HARVEST HANDLING
- Clean resin – Remove wood chips and debris gently
- Dry carefully – Air-dry in shade or low-heat environment to prevent loss of fragrance
- Store properly – Airtight containers or cool, dry storage to maintain quality
- Record data – Tree ID, harvest date, method, and resin yield
VI. SAFETY & SUSTAINABILITY
- Wear gloves, eye protection, and non-slip footwear
- Avoid over-harvesting to allow trees to recover
- Reapply biofertilizers and organic amendments post-harvest to support regeneration
- Monitor for pest or pathogen incidence after harvesting
VII. BEST PRACTICES
- Limit harvest to resin-rich sections only
- Combine manual and low-impact mechanical methods for efficiency and control
- Keep harvest cycles documented for each tree to optimize future resin induction
- Maintain tree health post-harvest with irrigation, mulching, and biofertilizer application
- Train workers in safe, precise, and hygienic harvesting techniques
VIII. TESDA NC I PERFORMANCE STANDARD
Learner must demonstrate ability to:
- Identify resin-rich areas for selective harvesting
- Apply manual or low-impact mechanical methods safely
- Preserve wood quality during and after resin extraction
- Record harvest data for traceability and sustainability
IX. FARMER-FRIENDLY CHECKLIST
☐ Trees inspected for resin-rich zones
☐ Harvest tools sanitized and ready
☐ Resin harvested selectively without damaging healthy wood
☐ Resin cleaned, dried, and stored properly
☐ Tree health maintained post-harvest
☐ Harvest data recorded (tree ID, method, yield)
Key Takeaway: Using selective, low-impact harvesting techniques preserves tree health and wood integrity, maximizes resin quality, and supports sustainable Agarwood production.