Sadiman: The Farmer Who Transformed a Drought-Prone Village

Sadiman, a farmer from Wonogiri Regency, Central Java, is known for his remarkable efforts in transforming his drought-prone village into a groundwater-rich area. Since 1996, he has been leading a tree-planting campaign on Gendol Hill to overcome the water crisis that often plagues the village, especially during the dry season. Gendol Hill, located on the southeastern slopes of Mount Lawu, suffered severe deforestation due to extensive logging activities and forest fires in the past. As a result, the Gendol River, which used to be the only source of water for the villagers, quickly dried up, leaving them in a severe water crisis for years. Sadiman first got the idea to revitalize the hill when he noticed that the rubber trees on the hill were no longer producing sap. He realized that the water crisis was already extreme, as even the tree trunks had dried up. Determined to save his village, Sadiman used his own money to buy tree seedlings and single-handedly planted them on every part of the hill. Among the trees he planted were banyan and lamtoro. To sustain his campaign, Sadiman planted clove seedlings in front of his house and exchanged every 10 stems for one-meter-tall banyan seedlings. His dedication and perseverance have not only transformed the landscape of Gendol Hill but also provided a sustainable source of groundwater for the village. Sadiman's story is a testament to the power of individual action in addressing environmental challenges. His initiative and determination serve as an inspiration for others to take similar steps in preserving and restoring the natural resources of their communities. In conclusion, Sadiman's tree-planting campaign on Gendol Hill has successfully transformed a drought-prone village into a groundwater-rich area. His efforts have not only mitigated the water crisis but also restored the ecological balance of the region. Sadiman's story is a shining example of how one person's dedication and commitment can make a significant impact on the environment and the well-being of a community.