ATG represents Armenia at international wheat conference

ATG represents Armenia at international wheat conference

September 25, 1997

The Armenian Technology Group (ATG) took part in the International Wheat Conference in June as part of its effort to maximize grain production in the Republic of Armenia.

The conference attracted agricultural specialists from throughout the world. Among the sponsors were research institutes that are at the cutting edge of agricultural science, including the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center, the International Center for Agricultural Research in Dry Areas, Oregon State University, and the U.S. Agency for International Development. ATG, a California-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting Armenia’s agricultural self-sufficiency, was represented by Roger Culver, the director of its program in Armenia. The conference was held in Ankara, Turkey.

The conference exposed Culver to the latest findings on wheat cultivation. In addition, Culver established new links with his counterparts in Central Europe and the former Soviet Union. As a result, ATG will begin planting winter wheat seed from Romania in trial plots in Armenia this fall. Plans are also underway to test new varieties of spring wheat seed in Armenia.

ATG is working to help Armenia increase the yield and quality of its wheat output. During the Soviet era, Armenia received 80 percent of its wheat from other Soviet republics. Since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Armenia has struggled to make up the shortfall, relying mostly on humanitarian relief. ATG has channeled its energies toward advancing long-term self-sufficiency.

In the area of wheat cultivation, the organization has introduced new varieties of wheat seed, joined with Armenian agronomists to develop an extensive research program, helped modify agricultural machinery to match Armenia’s rugged terrain, and taken steps toward setting up a network of lending institutions for Armenia’s private farmers. ATG operates in cooperation with Armenia’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture.

In addition to improving Armenia’s wheat yields, ATG has implemented several other programs in the republic since its creation in 1989. ATG has received grants from the U.S. Agency for International Development, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, and the Lincy Foundation.

For more information about how you can help Armenia’s farmers, contact the ATG office at (559) 224-1000 or by e-mail (info@atgusa.org). Tax-deductible donations can be sent to ATG; 1300 E. Shaw, Suite 149; P.O.Box 5969; Fresno, CA 93755-5969.
You may also donate to ATG online.