Apple farmers in Duhok struggle with widespread crop disease

DUHOK – Apple farmers in Duhok’s Doski region are facing significant challenges this season due to a widespread crop disease that has devastated their harvest. The disease, which has particularly affected Lebanese yellow apples, has led to substantial losses for the local agricultural community.

Farmers in the region, including those in neighboring Berwari Bala, have been grappling with the disease, which has rendered much of their produce unsellable. Mehdi Banki, a local farmer, told 964 Media that most of the apples were infected before they could be harvested. “The apples rotted before they even matured, falling to the ground and becoming unfit for consumption,” he said.

Despite efforts to control the disease with pesticides, the situation remains dire. Banki explained that the disease attacks the apples from the inside, making it difficult to detect until it’s too late. “We’ve used pesticides twice, but they haven’t been effective, and now we’re facing a massive loss,” he said.

Banki stressed the need for better access to higher-quality agricultural tools and pesticides to prevent such issues in the future. He also highlighted the financial burden on farmers, as market prices for their crops have plummeted. “Yesterday, I sold 60 crates of apples for just 600 dinars per kilogram (about $0.39), and some days, prices drop as low as 300 dinars ($0.20),” he added.

Local farmers are calling for stronger support from agricultural authorities to ensure they can continue their work sustainably. “Without better resources, we can’t protect our crops or our livelihoods,” Banki said.

On July 24, 2024, the agriculture department in Duhok announced new measures to combat a pest infestation affecting apple trees in the Barwari Bala area, a key apple-producing region. The trees have been plagued by a disease causing black and brown spots, leading to significant damage and deformities in the fruit.