4000 tons expected

Sumac crops in Akre affected by disease as harvesting nears

2024-07-29 | 14:35

AKRE, DOHUK — The sumac crop in Duhok’s Akre district has been affected by disease as the harvesting period is approaching. This year, it is expected to yield more than 4,000 tons, according to Akre Agriculture Directorate.

Farmers in the Akre district told 964media that, like in previous years, part of this year’s sumac crop has been hit by disease. They are urging authorities to find a solution as the harvesting season is just weeks away.

The Akre district, particularly the Dinarte sub-district, is known for its sumac production, which includes both white and red color varieties. Prices for sumac vary based on quality, ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 IQD ($4.5 to $6) per kilogram in the market.

Samed Zebari, a farmer from Harniya village in the Dinarte sub-district, told 964media, “For the first time, a significant portion of my crop has been affected by the disease, causing substantial damage. The cause remains unknown.”

He added that the harvesting season for sumac is just a few days away, but most of the crop has already deteriorated and is unusable.

Karwan Jamal, a spokesperson for the Akre Agriculture Directorate, told 964media, “Every year, a portion of the sumac crops is affected by the disease. Farmers should monitor their crops closely and contact us for assistance with any issues they face.”

Jamal explained that the disease is linked to climate conditions, humidity and high rainfall in mountainous areas, where most sumac is produced.

In Akre district, there are 3459 acres of land planted with sumac trees, and it is expected to produce more than 4,000 tons this year. Last year, the Akre Agriculture Directorate reported a production of 5,000 tons of sumac in the district.

Nearly two weeks ago, a disease compromising a portion of Akre’s celebrated fig orchards has been reported. Officials attribute the outbreak primarily to the farmers’ irregular maintenance of trees and delays in reporting the issue.