Choman reports strong peach Harvest, declining apple production

CHOMAN – This year’s harvest in Choman District has seen peaches emerge as the most productive crop, while apples recorded the lowest output among fruits, according to data shared with 964media by local agricultural authorities.

Choman District, located in the northeastern part of Erbil Governorate near the Iraqi-Iranian border, is known for its rugged mountainous terrain. The district consists of four sub-districts—Gelala, Haji Omeran, Smilan, and Qasre—and approximately 166 villages. Choman, the administrative center, is situated 150 kilometers northeast of Erbil.

The Balakayati region within Choman hosts 1,995 fruit orchards, including 390 vineyards, 360 pomegranate orchards, 240 peach orchards, 265 apricot orchards, 120 pear orchards, 90 fig orchards, 50 cherry orchards, and 30 greengage orchards. The remaining orchards are planted with various other crops.

Balakayati, a mountainous area, is renowned for its striking landscapes. Snow-capped mountains, expansive orchards, and cold-water springs make it a hub for both agriculture and eco-tourism.

Delshad Hussein, Director of Agriculture in Choman, told 964media that this year’s peach harvest reached 825 tons. However, he expressed concern over the apple yield, stating, “The apple crop has been very poor.”

Agriculture, livestock, and cross-border trade form the economic backbone of Choman. The region is known for its walnut orchards and a variety of fruit cultivation.

Hussein noted that many farmers have been abandoning apple orchards in favor of vineyards. “What used to be apple orchards are now mostly abandoned,” he added, attributing the shift to the perception that apple cultivation is less profitable than other crops.

This year’s apple harvest was among the lowest, with only 25 tons produced. Other fruit yields included 750 tons of grapes, 675 tons of pomegranates, 780 tons of apricots, 98 tons of pears, 80 tons of figs, 125 tons of cherries, and 25 tons of greengages.

The walnut crop in Balakayati suffered a severe blow this year due to a widespread fungal disease, cutting yields in half and affecting the quality of the harvest. Many walnuts were reported to be small and rotten.

In addition to agriculture, Choman is a popular destination for eco-tourism. Attractions such as Halgurd Mountain, the Przhe tourist site, valleys, waterfalls, and historical landmarks draw visitors seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. The district’s cool climate and plentiful water sources further enhance its appeal as a tourist destination.