A groundbreaking project from OMU: A new era of truffle cultivation in hazelnut orchards begins

Ondokuz Mayıs University (OMU) is launching another innovative project in the fields of agriculture and economics. Under the coordination of Prof. Dr. Aysun Pekşen from the Department of Horticulture at the Faculty of Agriculture, the project titled “Development and Dissemination of Truffle Mushroom Cultivation in Hazelnut Orchards in the DOKAP Region” has been initiated.

The project team includes Prof. Dr. Kürşat Demiryürek from the Department of Agricultural Economics, doctoral student Esra Tepikoğlu Karabulut, and Ömür Karabulut. The protocol for the project, which is supported by the Eastern Black Sea Project Regional Development Administration (DOKAP), was signed by OMU Rector Prof. Dr. Fatma Aydın and DOKAP President Hakan Gültekin.

Infrastructure to Be Developed for Investors

The project aims to identify suitable natural areas for truffle mushroom cultivation within the DOKAP region and to establish the necessary infrastructure for entrepreneurs interested in investing in this field. Additionally, by raising awareness and providing training for farmers, the project aspires to position the region as a significant national and international center for truffle production.

Truffle Potential to Be Explored in Hazelnut Production Areas

In order to promote truffle cultivation, fieldwork will be conducted in DOKAP provinces where hazelnuts are already grown. Truffle presence will be investigated in forested and hazelnut-planted areas, and data will be collected and evaluated through stakeholder surveys. Applied work, such as the production of truffle-inoculated hazelnut saplings, will also be carried out as part of the project.

Education and Extension Activities for Sustainability

One of the key pillars of the project is educational outreach. Training and extension programs will be organized for farmers to ensure the sustainability of truffle mushroom production. These will include hands-on sessions on truffle hunting, dog training, and harvesting. In addition, public information meetings and dissemination activities will be conducted throughout the region to raise awareness.

Contributing to the Economy through Alternative Income and Exports

With the introduction of truffle cultivation in the DOKAP region, an alternative source of income is expected to be created for hazelnut producers. The export of high-value truffles is projected to contribute to the national and regional economies through foreign exchange earnings. The project also aims to stimulate local economic activity through its potential for ecotourism.

Sustainable Development Through Dual-Cropping

By promoting a sustainable dual-cropping model of hazelnuts and truffles in DOKAP provinces, the project aims to simultaneously deliver economic, environmental, and social benefits, contributing to regional development.