In Ordu, this year some producers in the coastal areas have started harvesting by entering their orchards.
Producers, who have reported difficulties in harvesting due to the hot weather, have requested that prices be announced.
Hazelnuts, one of the most important sources of income in the Black Sea Region, have ripened in some areas. In the Saraycık, Turnasuyu, and Kayabaşı neighborhoods of the Altınordu district, and in the coastal areas of the Perşembe district, hazelnut producers and workers have begun the first harvest of the new season early in the morning to collect their early-ripened crops. Producers have mentioned that high temperatures are complicating the harvest and have called for price announcements.
“Hazelnuts are better compared to previous years”
Ömer Aksu, who has started harvesting hazelnuts in the Saraycık neighborhood, said they began harvesting at 7:00 AM. He noted that the harvest would continue in this manner as long as there is no rain. Aksu said, “The season is good compared to previous years, and the quality and yield of the hazelnuts are also good. However, uncertainty over prices is concerning. Prices should have been announced by now. I hope we receive a good price. The terrain is uneven, and during rainy periods, it is very challenging to collect the hazelnuts. It is not just about picking them; there are many procedures afterward. Our neighborhood is the first in Turkey to start harvesting. We pick the hazelnuts before they fall to the ground, which is why we start early here.”
“This is our livelihood”
Hatice Aksu, who is also harvesting hazelnuts, stated, “Fortunately, we have started the harvest this year, but the possibility of low prices worries us. The harvest is difficult, and we are picking them as a family. Since we have a small amount, we manage on our own. We wait all year for the hazelnuts; this is how we support ourselves.”
Hazelnuts moved to the threshing floors in coastal areas
Some producers, having hired workers, have brought their harvested hazelnuts to the threshing floors. They explained that the hazelnuts ripened early, which is why they gathered and transported them early.
Additionally, according to the yield assessment conducted by the commission, it is expected that Turkey will produce 738,931 tons of hazelnuts this year, with 202,041 tons expected to come from Ordu.