Restoration of arable lands in Gegharkunik
The area of abandoned and non-purposely used arable lands in Gegharkunik Marz is growing every year. This is due to a number of key problems, which are the lack of irrigation, stony soil, soil quality, irregular grazing, etc. Because of all this, such soils provide low harvest and their exploitation is not economically profitable.
The "Abandoned Lands Development" component of the three-year project "The establishment and strengthening of agricultural cooperatives with the use of improved legislation and modern technologies", funded by Bread for the World, is being implemented by “Shen” NGO to solve these problems. Within the framework of the component, in 2025, we initiated an experimental program in Torfavan, Vanevan and Mets Masrik settlements of Gegharkunik Marz to improve arable lands and restore their intended purpose.
Within the framework of the program, 21 ha of uncultivated arable lands were cultivated. Alfalfa and corn were sown with spring barley as an undersowing. A laboratory study of the soil of the experimental crops was carried out, on the basis of which the mentioned arable lands were fertilized. An annual cultivation plan was drawn up by the involved agronomists. The plan includes a fertilization scheme and a description of sowing and maintenance works. At the same time, it is planned to prevent irregular grazing of experimental crops through a responsible group.
In parallel with the implemented measures, we provided the beneficiaries with corn seeds, fertilizers and fuel for carrying out agrotechnical works.
