Preserving Agricultural Biodiversity in Balıkesir

The Emanetçiler Society is engaged in preserving local agricultural biodiversity in the Savaştepe and İvrindi areas of Turkey's northwest province of Balıkesir. Many traditional varieties of vegetables, pulses and other crops whose cultivation is rapidly dying out were once again made available to local consumers. In 2008 the society will continue with its inventory of traditional varieties, support for small farmers and restoring traditional crops to local markets. The society, which is supported by Balıkesir Metropolitan Municipality and the UNDP-SGP programme, draws its greatest strength from the determination of farmers to preserve their local flavours. 

Foto: SGP bullet, Jan 08