Mardin prepares to distribute 4 million saltbush seedlings across Turkey

The Mardin Agriculture and Forestry Directorate, under the approval of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, is preparing to distribute 4 million saltbush seedlings to pastures across Turkey. This initiative is part of the ‘Giving Life Back to Our Pastures Project’ aimed at increasing pasture productivity and meeting the roughage needs of small ruminant livestock.

Operating on a 127-decare production site, the facility uses seeds brought from Konya, Karaman, and Eskişehir to cultivate seedlings. These plants, locally referred to as ‘Mardin alfalfa’ due to their high nutritional value, feature a crude protein content of up to 17%, comparable to alfalfa. The plant remains green year-round and can thrive in uncultivated or saline lands.

Following the successful distribution of 2 million seedlings to 24 cities—including those affected by the Kahramanmaraş earthquakes—last year, the project aims to expand its impact this year. The seedlings will be provided free of charge to requesting provinces, universities, and research institutes to support livestock feeding throughout the year.