Agricultural Development in the West Bank (ص 135)

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Agricultural Development in the West Bank (ص 135)

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258
In 1981 the difference was even much more pronounced.
Plum trees are accorded a relatively advanced level of cultural
Practice, comparable to that of grapes. The main problem
which faces producers, other than price, is pest damage.
Plum trees are susceptible to stem borers and root rot (Armillaria
Mellea). The extent of damage, however, is much lower than
similar hazards on almonds, figs, or apricots.
Expanding plum culture is certainly desirable but there are
important prerequisites. More varieties should be introduced,
with emphasis on early and late maturing ones. Pricing should
be stabilized through cooperative organisations which should
bargain for better prices in Israeli and Jordanian markets.
The establishment of processing outfits which are able to
absorb part of the surplus produce would be a great step forward.
This, however, is not an unqualified proposal to establish
4 processing factory, since that requires a more elaborate
study.
2. Figs
The total area is estimated (1980) at 2871 donums, as compared
to 25,822 donums in 1966, Similarly, production is reported
to have dropped during the same period from 13,855 to 11,000
(tons).
The fig tree was until two decades ago a major tree in such
Areas as Ramallah and Nablus districts. Most of the fig
Produce was sold fresh, and the rest was processed into a
local dessert called Kottain (dried figs). In certain parts
ieee
1. For 1966 figures: Agricultural Atlas of Jordan, op cit, p 112.
of Ramallah district figs were until three decades ago almost
as significant as olives, whether in terms of area or
importance in the local economy.
Fig production commenced a steady decline in the Middle sixties
following widespread infestation with two very serious insects,
namely, the stem borer (Batocera rufonaculata) and fig scaly
insect (Ceroplastes rusci), As common with all rainfed fruit
trees, no control measures were practiced, although the latter
insect is fairly easy to control. The main problem was the
lack of equipment and expertise. Infestation with fig scales
spread steadily until it now covers over 90 percent of all
West Bank figs. But fortunately, the trees themselves die
at a slow rate and before death they can be easily rejuvenated
with the proper remedial measures.
Profitability of figs is not easy to ascertain, due to their
widespread inter-farming with other types of trees. According
to the Department of Agriculture, net returns per donum are
estimated at JD 15.9.) It is emphasized, however, that returns
could be more than doubled if productivity is increased by
Providing better care for existing orchards.
Fig fruits are soft, which makes them excessively perishable
Under improper transportation and storage. With the problems
©f marketing across the frontier bridges so complex and time~
Consuming as they are, exports to Amman offer little potential
Should there be a surplus. Israeli markets, on the other hand,
are able to absorb all fig surpluses and at attractive prices.
1. The Economics of Qommon Farming Enterprises, op cit, p %

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Agricultural Development in the West Bank

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المنشئ

Hisham Masoud Awartani

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