Industrial Hemp Harvesting Started in Konya: Farmers Hopeful

Excitement of Hemp Harvest in Çumra District of Konya

In the Çumra district of Konya, the harvest of industrial hemp trial plantings made last year has begun. This process has become a great source of hope for farmers in the region.

Role of the Cooperative and Initial Yields

Çumra Anadolu Production and Marketing Cooperative President Mahmut Şenyüz stated that after the completion of the official procedures, the harvested hemp yielded more than expected. Şenyüz said, "Hemp loved Çumra's soils and provided a quite fruitful result this season."

Concerns of Farmers Addressed

Şenyüz emphasized that the question marks in farmers' minds about "Will it grow? Is there a market? Will it be profitable?" were eliminated by the yield obtained and product demand. Farmers turned to hemp planting by obtaining the necessary planting permits through the cooperative.

Water Conservation and Advantages of Hemp

Pointing out the ongoing water crisis and the importance of water conservation nationwide, Şenyüz noted that hemp provides high yields with less water. "Hemp can grow with just two irrigations during the rainy season. It can provide significant income with lower water consumption compared to other grains like wheat and barley," he added.

Academic Support and Future Expectations

Prof. Dr. Zeki Bayramoğlu, Head of the Department of Agricultural Economics at Selçuk University Faculty of Agriculture, emphasized that Konya Plain is a globally significant agricultural area. Bayramoğlu stated that hemp production will greatly contribute not only to increasing farmers' incomes but also to rural development and agricultural industrialization.

In conclusion, supporting and increasing incentives for hemp production will enhance the agricultural potential of the Konya region and bring smiles to farmers' faces.