Vitebsk region expects to harvest 1.5 million tons of grain this year
Over the past two years, a significant amount of work has been done to solve the problems of the region's agro-industrial complex. "If we assess the readiness for the upcoming sowing campaign, we are doing better than in previous seasons. This applies to the provision of equipment, fertilizers, and fuel," said the head of the region. In his opinion, the region has every reason to count on a good harvest. "We would like to get at least 1.5 million tons of grain. This figure did not arise out of nowhere. We are purposefully moving towards it and preparing thoroughly," said Nikolai Sherstnev.
The governor noted that the region is intensively updating its machine and tractor fleet. Last year, the region's farms purchased more than 1,000 units of equipment, and in 2016, approximately the same amount. "We are currently also purchasing tractors, agricultural machinery, seeders, and other units to ensure high technological standards in agricultural production. We need to sow as qualitatively as possible and within optimal deadlines to achieve a rich harvest. This will allow us to pay off debts to the state and fully provide livestock with good feed. Then we will achieve significant weight gains and good milk yields, which means farmers will receive decent wages," the head of the region is convinced.
As for problematic issues, the main and most acute one is the shortage of personnel. "We still have a serious problem with personnel. Difficulties also arose because we intend to cultivate the soil both day and night. Consequently, we need twice as many machine operators. Therefore, we will involve students from specialized colleges and second specialists from cities and district centers to the villages. If we manage to organize work in 2-3 shifts, we are guaranteed to finish sowing within optimal deadlines," shared Nikolai Sherstnev.
Responding to a question about the condition of winter crops, the chairman of the regional executive committee noted that the fields had overwintered well. "The condition of winter crops is satisfactory. We are ready"to feed them well, carry out all necessary care work," - the head of the region summarized. The total sown area of the region in the current year will be 796 thousand hectares, of which 50% is planned to be sown with grain crops (about 400 thousand hectares). This includes 242 thousand hectares in spring.