Kosztela

CONTEXT

In Poland, the preservation of native fruit varieties is burning issue: for the past 20 years, only plantations of commercial varieties (but not local) have been preferred by farmers. We are now entering an off-peak period in which traditional fruits will not be available because older trees do not produce fruit anymore and young trees are not mature enough for harvest. The CAP has removed its support to fruit trees and only forest species are subsidized in Poland. Moreover, very few farmers take the initiative to replant traditional orchards (apples, pears, plums…).

OBJECTIVES

The project, conducted by the Foundation AgriNatura specialized in agricultural biodiversity, aims at restoring the traditional orchards, which are a key component of the ecosystem and the rural landscape in Poland. Partner farmers have small or medium-sized family farms (5-25 ha), mainly organic. The establishment of orchards enables to diversify their sources of income by adding value to local products. Other direct benefits for their agricultural activities will also be prioritized: development of auxiliary culture, protection against climate events, shade for animals…

PARTNER

The AgriNatura Foundation is a Polish NGO created in 2007 to promote organic farming and preserve agricultural biodiversity.