The Biological Farming Association Elkana has trained specialists in hazelnut pruning and shaping within the project “Organic Hazelnut Value Chain Creates Income and Decent Employment in Western Georgia”. 12 participants were enrolled in the course, whom six completed both the theoretical and practical aspects. The graduates decided to create working groups in Zugdidi and Tsalenjikha municipalities.
Each group was provided with the necessary inventory within the framework of the project, following the principle of participation. From January, hazelnut farmers living in the region will receive quality service from certified specialists in hazelnut pruning and shaping.
Elkana has been cooperating with the organic hazelnut producer Caucasnut for years, which unites approximately 700 farmers. The majority of farmers often pointed out that the activities of hazelnut pruning and shaping in the region were hardly supported. Next year, two groups will start working, and while they may not cover the entire region, the initial steps will have been taken, laying the foundation for the comprehensive development of quality services.
Elkana assists Caucasnut to achieve the following objectives:
• Promoting the certification of hazelnut producers by organic and fair-trade standards;
• Providing farmers involved in the certification system with essential advice and technical support for hazelnut production;
• Promoting the sale of organic and fair-trade certified hazelnuts at premium prices through interested market partners;
• Promoting the development and accessibility of various services necessary for hazelnut farmers.
Caucasnut employs a group certification system, involving ongoing training of member farmers, offering farm inspections, facilitating their external audits by an accredited certification body, and ensuring traceability of the manufactured products at all levels of the production chain.
