Program Background

Since independence agricultural production in Armenia has faced a number of transition problems, because information channels, as well as technology and skill transfer institutions were damaged and new effective services providing farmers and agribusinesses with updated information and methodology are still in the process of development.

 

VISTAA agronomists, specialists in crop and orchard management and plant protection as well as livestock and agricultural mechanization specialists assisted a number of local and international clients with practical review and recommendations to improve current production methods and techniques, designed and implemented irrigation systems, developed plant protection, disease and pest control activities. VISTAA livestock specialists worked with farmers to improve management, feeding and sanitation practices. Practical, professional assistance was provided to rural communities, farmers, agricultural enterprises, as well as international and local companies and development organizations.

 

VISTAA completed over 50 assignments in almost all regions of the country on issues related to crop and livestock management. The assignments were quick actions with immediate impact and tangible results. In addition to the above mentioned, training seminars covering similar topics were implemented countrywide.

 

Example 1: A 150 hectares of orchard land, belonging to several small growers, was under attack by an unknown pest. There was no visible pest on the trees affected, which included apricot, apple, and cherry trees. VISTAA assigned an orchard pest management expert to identify the pest and options for managing the problem. The expert quickly identified the pest as a soil grub and proceeded to solve the problem through trap cropping a non-chemical, natural procedure. The technique showed dramatic results and the tree growth resumed.

 

Example 2: A newly established mini-dairy was not achieving the yield from its small dairy herd to maintain the venture as a viable enterprise. A VISTAA specialist in dairy management reviewed the entire operation and identified several minimal cost quality control points that needed immediate action. The owner undertook the recommendations and reported a 20% increase in yield from his herd.

 

In four years (1997-2001) 45 experts assisted more than 600 clients in this category.