Irbid, June 22 (Petra) – Wheat and barley crops in the Koura District are showing positive production indicators this season, with total output expected to reach approximately 1,185 tons despite the challenges associated with rain-fed agriculture, according to Koura Agriculture Director Salem Khasawneh.

Khasawneh told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that around 3,000 dunams were planted with wheat this season, with an average yield of 350 kilograms per dunam, bringing expected production to approximately 1,050 tons.

He added that about 500 dunams were cultivated with barley, with an average yield of 270 kilograms per dunam, resulting in an anticipated production of around 135 tons.

The combined output of both crops is expected to reach about 1,185 tons, reflecting relative stability in the agricultural season despite climatic fluctuations and the district's complete reliance on rainfall, he said.

Khasawneh noted that the directorate began issuing certificates of origin for wheat and barley at the start of the season to facilitate marketing procedures and link production with approved receiving centers.

He said 28 applications were submitted for wheat cultivation and four for barley cultivation, while certificates of origin were issued for approximately 2,500 dunams of wheat and 250 dunams of barley.

The measure is intended to protect farmers' rights and support the orderly and transparent marketing of agricultural produce, he added.

Khasawneh said the directorate is closely monitoring harvesting operations and overseeing all stages of the agricultural season, from cultivation to delivery at receiving centers, to ensure smooth operations and safeguard farmers' interests.

He described Koura as a model for rain-fed agriculture, where agricultural fields each season reflect the resilience of both farmers and the land despite changing weather conditions.

Khasawneh said integrated teamwork within the Plant Production Division remains a key factor in the success of the agricultural season and in strengthening the sustainability of agricultural production in the district.

Head of the Plant Production Division Nawaf Salaymeh said the division's work focuses on field monitoring and accurate crop-yield assessments to provide a realistic evaluation of seasonal production indicators.

Mary Masa'idah of the Plant Production Division at the Wasatiyah Agriculture Directorate said the division provides farmers with technical guidance throughout the season to improve agricultural practices and enhance crop quality.

Plant protection specialist Mu'taz Mustarihi said efforts are focused on the early detection and treatment of pests and infestations in accordance with scientific standards to maintain crop health.

Muhammad Bani Issa, a member of the Certificate of Origin Committee, said field teams document agricultural conditions across cultivation sites and support organizational and technical oversight efforts, contributing to more accurate agricultural data and planning.

//Petra// AJ