Empowering Heritage Meskhetian Vine Varieties’ Preservers with Practical Skills and Knowledge

Empowering Heritage Meskhetian Vine Varieties’ Preservers with Practical Skills and Knowledge

In the intricate ecosystem of agriculture, vineyards stand as a bastion of tradition, culture, and livelihood for many communities worldwide. However, this delicate balance is frequently threatened by the relentless onslaught of pests and diseases that can decimate crops and devastate livelihoods. Recognising the challenges, the Regional Environmental Centre for the Caucasus initiated a number of farmers’ tailored trainings to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills. Such programs not only empower farmers but foster sustainability and resilience within the agriculture sector. Arming farmers with the expertise needed to combat vine pests and diseases effectively. It is noteworthy that the interest grew among the young generation and students and 70 participants attended the training.  

Grape cultivation is seriously threatened by diseases and pests that affect the vine and lower the quality of the crop. Furthermore, the need of proactive management measures is underscored by the global spread of pests and diseases, as well as by climate change. A variety of subjects were covered in the field of on-site training, such as disease diagnosis, pest identification, integrated pest management strategies, and sustainable agricultural practices. 

With the support of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, and the Regional Environmental Centre for the Caucasus (RECC), efforts are underwayto restore and widely distribute the endangered Meskhetian vine varieties in the Samtskhe-Javakheti region. By fostering a deeper understanding of vineyard ecology and pest dynamics, farmers can make decisions and implement targeted interventions to mitigate risks. 

The field trainings were conducted within the framework of the GEF supported project “Sustainable Management of Agricultural Biodiversity in Vulnerable Ecosystems and Rural Communities of Samtskhe-Javakheti Region in Georgia”, in the vineyards of Zurab Tsiklauri, in village Rustavi Aspindza Municipality and Emzar Gachechiladze, in village Zikilia, Akhaltsikhe Municipality. Participants were guided by Mr. Zurab Khidesheli, under the cooperation efforts with the Scientific-Research Center of Agriculture.  

“We can’t control all the pests and diseases in the vineyards. I always do my best to control diseases with biological methods. The training was held on time, so we can practice obtaining knowledge in our vineyards.” – Mr. Kakhaber Teliashvili, farmer from village Naokhrebi of Akhaltsikhe Municipality

Besides providing us with quality planting materials, project enhances us with modern, science-based knowledge and skills to care for the health conditions and wellbeing of our vineyards.” – Ms. Maiko Murjikneli, farmer from settlement Aspindza.

The sessions were designed to be interactive, utilizing a Q&A format that encouraged active participation from the farmers. This approach allowed the farmers to test their knowledge and engage in meaningful discussions by exchanging practical perspectives with each other. By imparting knowledge, fostering collaboration, and promoting sustainable practices, these programs represent a vital investment in the future of agriculture. As we navigate the complexities of a changing climate and globalized economy, the empowerment of farmers through education remains a cornerstone of resilience and adaptation in viticulture.

 

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