Increasing the income of oil palm farmers is an important issue in the development of smallholder plantations. However, studies linking factors associated with increased income to environmental conservation practices at the farmer level remain limited. This study aimed to analyze factors associated with increased income among oil palm farmers and to identify environmental conservation practices in Batu Sondet Village, Batahan Subdistrict, Mandailing Natal Regency, North Sumatra Province. This study employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive design and involved 25 oil palm farmers as informants. Data were collected through interviews, observation, and documentation and subsequently analyzed descriptively based on field findings. The results showed that increased farmer income was associated with capital availability, production costs, plant age, land area, rainfall, and land class. Limited capital was the main constraint on plantation maintenance and replanting. Regarding environmental aspects, farmers used manure, constructed ditches or drainage systems, and utilized oil palm fronds as compost or natural fertilizer. These findings indicate that the sustainability of smallholder oil palm farming requires the management of economic factors accompanied by the implementation of environmental conservation practices. This study extends understanding of the relationship between economic and environmental dimensions in smallholder oil palm farming and supports the application of the Triple Bottom Line concept. The practical implications of this study emphasize the importance of strengthening access to capital, improving knowledge, and providing assistance to farmers to increase their income while maintaining environmental sustainability.
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