Project News

Release of Project Newsletter No.11
Newsletter No.11:Download（PDF/245KB)

Establishment of Demonstration Plots on Mechanized Tea Harvesting in Trabzon and Rize

The Project has carried out several demonstrations of tea harvest machines (pluckers) as a laborsaving technology since May 2009. Present shape of tea garden in the region is not suitable for mechanization. Efficient use of tea pluckers needs reshape of tea garden. The well-designed tea gardens are necessary to demonstrate mechanization of tea harvesting.

The Project Team procured 2 types of trimmers from Japan, i.e., 1-person type and 2-person type. Those machines are designed for the tea pluckers procured previously. After the end of 2009 harvest season, the Project Team established 2 demonstration plots of mechanized tea harvesting in Trabzon (Ugurlu, Of district) and Rize (Yucehisar, Pazar district). The plots were located in parts of farmers' gardens in the model and new extension areas.

The demonstration plots would be used for the demonstration of the tea pluckers continuously from 2010 spring season. The Turkish members of the Project Team are responsible to manage the plots and operate the demonstrations.