Begining and effect of the organic hazelnut agriculture in Turkiye: One example from Camlica village (Samsun)

Abstract

Ecological agriculture is being practiced for 13 years in the Camlica Village of Evci District in Terme, Samsun. Hazelnut is one of the key products in the economy of both Black Sea Region and Turkey. The characteristics and experience of Camlica Village is important since it sets a leading example for ecological hazelnut farming in the Black Sea Region which has a great potential for ecological agriculture. In this research the physical and social geography of Camlica Village, the history of ecological hazelnut farming in the village, the conditions under which it is practiced, the changes brought about by ecological farming, and the problems experienced is sought to explain. It is found out that the farmers adopted ecological farming with economic expectations at first, however, there was no increase in wealth due to ecological farming, and they kept on this type of farming with environmental and familial concerns. On the other hand, it is observed that many farmers gained a wider perspective, sensitivity to environmental and health issues, and formed organizations. It is seen that, although it has been a long time since they started ecological farming, the most important problem is the lack of knowledge and training, and the farmers experience marketing problems when they cannot come into agreement with export firms.