# Saltbush cultivation for Turkish livestock

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/saltbush-cultivation-for-turkish-livestock
> Updated: 2026-08-28T08:20:42.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Agricultural initiatives in Turkey have focused on the production and distribution of saltbush (Atriplex canescens) to address drought and improve livestock fodder. 

In the Van region, the Van Agricultural Research Institute began producing the drought-resistant plant to provide high-protein forage and mitigate erosion in arid lands. This research serves several provinces, including Bitlis, Muş, Ağrı, and Hakkari.

Expanding on such efforts, the Mardin Agriculture and Forestry Directorate announced plans to distribute 4 million saltbush seedlings across Turkey as part of the ‘Giving Life Back to Our Pastures Project’. The seedlings, which are locally referred to as ‘Mardin alfalfa’ due to their high protein content, are intended to increase pasture productivity and support small ruminant livestock. This follows a previous distribution of 2 million seedlings to 24 cities.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-28: Mardin prepares to distribute 4 million saltbush seedlings across Turkey

Mardin is preparing to distribute 4 million saltbush seedlings across Turkey to boost pasture productivity and support small ruminant livestock with high-protein forage.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mardin-prepares-to-distribute-4-million-saltbush-seedlings-across-turkey

### 2026-08-16: Van Agricultural Research Institute begins saltbush production

The Van Agricultural Research Institute has started producing saltbush to provide drought-resistant, high-protein fodder for livestock and to combat erosion in Turkey's eastern regions.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/van-agricultural-research-institute-begins-saltbush-production

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Cite as: Saltbush cultivation for Turkish livestock. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/saltbush-cultivation-for-turkish-livestock