Zonguldak launches pilot salep production project for forest villagers

In a pilot project for rural development, the ORKÖY program has introduced salep (salep orchid) cultivation to forest villagers in Zonguldak, Turkey. Located in Kabaca village within the Devrek district, the initiative aims to provide high-value alternative income streams while protecting natural salep populations from illegal harvesting.

Six initial producers have begun production with 1,200 kilograms of salep tubers. Each participant received 400,000 TL in support, consisting of an 80,000 TL non-refundable grant and a 320,000 TL interest-free loan. Once the project reaches full capacity, the participating producers are expected to generate an annual income of approximately 3 million TL.

Zonguldak Forest Regional Director Halil Oflu stated that strengthening forest villagers through production is essential for protecting the 'green homeland.' The program is intended to be expanded to other forest villages across Turkey in the coming years. To date, the regional directorate has provided significant financial support to hundreds of families in the area for various social and economic projects.