![[info]](http://p-stat.livejournal.com/img/userinfo.gif){kind=small}
: Grapes To Help Iraq
Using grapes to help rebuild Iraq
http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db9
USAID improves grape production in Iraq. In November 2005, ARDI conducted a benchmarking survey to determine 20 of the highest quality and most commercially valuable grape varieties grown in northern Iraq. ARDI then worked with the private sector entrepreneurs to establish the nurseries on a cost-sharing basis. The nurseries are now ready to propagate at least 800,000 “true-to-type” grape seedlings each year.
By planting seedlings of high quality and commercially valuable grape varieties, farmers will increase their production and their income. ARDI will provide further assistance to grape producers through programs to introduce improved methods of grape cultivation, including drip irrigation, trellising, and proper pruning techniques.
The current average price for Iraqi grapes is around $0.13 per kilogram. Preferred varieties of grapes, cultivated with improved methods, can bring this price up to $0.50 per kilogram. Thousands of grape producers throughout northern Iraq will potentially benefit from the greater availability of improved grape varieties and knowledge of improved cultivation techniques, resulting in an increase in the standard of living in this area.
Using grapes to help rebuild Iraq
http://www.reliefweb.int/rw/rwb.nsf/db9
USAID improves grape production in Iraq. In November 2005, ARDI conducted a benchmarking survey to determine 20 of the highest quality and most commercially valuable grape varieties grown in northern Iraq. ARDI then worked with the private sector entrepreneurs to establish the nurseries on a cost-sharing basis. The nurseries are now ready to propagate at least 800,000 “true-to-type” grape seedlings each year.
By planting seedlings of high quality and commercially valuable grape varieties, farmers will increase their production and their income. ARDI will provide further assistance to grape producers through programs to introduce improved methods of grape cultivation, including drip irrigation, trellising, and proper pruning techniques.
The current average price for Iraqi grapes is around $0.13 per kilogram. Preferred varieties of grapes, cultivated with improved methods, can bring this price up to $0.50 per kilogram. Thousands of grape producers throughout northern Iraq will potentially benefit from the greater availability of improved grape varieties and knowledge of improved cultivation techniques, resulting in an increase in the standard of living in this area.