STEPANAKERT, OCTOBER 7, ARMENPRESS: The overall area of vineyards in Nagorno Karabagh has reduced by approximately 25 percent in the recent decade. Officials in the Nagorno Karabagh agriculture ministry say the drastic reduction is the result of contamination by a disease known as phylloxera. New sorts of grapes that are set to be cultivated in the region with the assistance of Armenian Technology Group, a US based charity, are immune from this disease.

There is also the problem of grape sale in Karabagh. A ten year contract signed by the Yerevan Brandy Company and local Karabagh Gold and Artsakh Alco companies will ease the problem, as they have to procure grapes in Karabagh and transport it to Yerevan. Some 800 tons are supposed to arrive from Karabagh. Next years target is 5,000 tons. The price of one kg of grape is between 100 to 150 Drams.

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.