Harvest losses in Armenia in 2011 may range from 5 to 10%: Expert says
31.03.2011,
00:26
Armenian farmers may lose from 5% to 10% of their crops this year, according to Hrach Berberian, chairman of the Agricultural Association.
YEREVAN, March 30. / ARKA /. Armenian farmers may lose from 5% to 10% of their crops this year, according to Hrach Berberian, chairman of the Agricultural Association.
Speaking at a news conference today he said although the year began well, winter drought will, nonetheless, affect the future harvest. According to Berberian, serious damage to agriculture, especially fruit-bearing orchards, has been caused by rodents.
"The government plans to import 17 tons of pesticides and other chemicals, but farmers need five times more to solve their relating problem. We spoke with the minister of agriculture, who promised to take action, " he said.
Berberian said also that this year apricots harvest will be low, but tomato yield will be higher.
"We gave away free tomato seeds to farmers enough for 150 hectares, so the price of tomatoes will fall by half," he stressed.
Commenting on the situation with the prices of potatoes, Berberian said that the situation will change no earlier than in two years.
"According to our data, 2 thousand tons of potato seeds will be brought, however, two years are required at least to change the situation," he said.
Prices of potato have doubled this year to 300 drams per one kg. -0-
Speaking at a news conference today he said although the year began well, winter drought will, nonetheless, affect the future harvest. According to Berberian, serious damage to agriculture, especially fruit-bearing orchards, has been caused by rodents.
"The government plans to import 17 tons of pesticides and other chemicals, but farmers need five times more to solve their relating problem. We spoke with the minister of agriculture, who promised to take action, " he said.
Berberian said also that this year apricots harvest will be low, but tomato yield will be higher.
"We gave away free tomato seeds to farmers enough for 150 hectares, so the price of tomatoes will fall by half," he stressed.
Commenting on the situation with the prices of potatoes, Berberian said that the situation will change no earlier than in two years.
"According to our data, 2 thousand tons of potato seeds will be brought, however, two years are required at least to change the situation," he said.
Prices of potato have doubled this year to 300 drams per one kg. -0-
