Training for hazelnut producers

The organic production of hazelnuts is labour intensive. The hazelnut trees must be cut regularly, and the weeds in the fields must be cut manually. The farmers monitor the plantations constantly to identify potential pests early and treat them immediately.
 
The hazelnut producers are supported by agronomists throughout the year. Various training activities are carried out in the field or in the village tea house. The workshops comprise a range of activities, such as having agronomists help in filling out the numerous documents needed for compliance with certifications or having farmers learn how to follow and comply with the different production standards and how to manage their plantations professionally.

“The implementation of certification standards is demanding. In addition to professionalizing their fieldwork, farmers must document all activities in detail. It is great fun to support the producers in this”.

Ali Mesut Karsli, Agronomist Işik Tarim

Pre-financing & access to inputs

The main part of the hazelnut production costs is the cost of labour to employ workers and costs for organic fertilizers, both of which incur before the producers sell their harvest. Not all farmers have enough money to sell their hazelnuts. Happy Hazelnut producers who need financial assistance get support from Işik Tarim, which pre-finances a large part of the costs. After the harvest, the repayment is made by offsetting the credit with the money gained in when selling the hazelnuts.
 
In organic agriculture, only special fertilizers that are not easily accessible are permitted. All Happy Hazelnut farmers can purchase fertilizers through Işik Tarim.

“We very much appreciate the support of Işik Tarim. That is why we have been working with this company for many years and produce our hazelnuts exclusively for Happy Hazelnut”.

Baris Gücük, Happy Hazelnut Farmer