On Friday, May 10, 2019, a meeting was held by the Farmer Training Application and Research Center, with faculty members from the Faculty of Agriculture and the School of Applied Sciences, in Yukarı Çamurlu Village, Aralık district. The meeting focused on the problems encountered in plant and animal production and potential solutions for agricultural producers.
During the meeting, which was held in a question-and-answer format, the cultivation techniques and marketing issues of products produced in the region, as well as potential solutions, were discussed. It was noted that local farmers were not enthusiastic about cotton production due to a lack of planting and harvesting machinery, even though cotton was replanted in the region in 2018 after a break in previous years. However, it was determined that if the necessary machinery were provided, cotton production could be feasible.
Regarding the irrigation problem caused by the theft of sluice gates from the irrigation channels built by the DSI (State Hydraulic Works), it was suggested that the sluice gates be replaced and cameras be installed in specific areas to address the issue.
Information was shared about the damage caused by alfalfa weevils and the preventive measures that should be taken. Specifically, it was recommended that pesticides be applied when the alfalfa plants reach a height of 5 cm, and that the number of irrigations and planting frequency can help prevent the formation of pests.
In livestock farming, the problem of calf loss was discussed, with the solution being not to feed moldy feed and to consult the Provincial and District Agricultural Directorates to diagnose the disease through blood tests.
In terms of marketing agricultural products, the idea of establishing cooperatives and having producers join these organizations was raised, and all the producers expressed positive views about this proposal.
It was agreed that if the local producers express their needs and get in touch with the Farmer Training Application and Research Center, they could receive training on plant and animal production and marketing.
