Central Asia Harvest Project Goes Commercial

03/29/10

The CAHP has launched its commerical enterprise, seeking to generate revenue and expand orchard training to local Central Asian fruit farmers.

For Immediate Release

Littleton, CO - The Central Asia Harvest Project (CAHP) has launched a commercial venture to help generate revenue to fund its non-profit training program. This enterprise will enhance current training methods by providing real-world practices and results to local farmers who hope to market their own fruit production.

Stan Brown, CAHP Director, comments on the importance of making the leap from non-profit training to a commercial enterprise: “Speaking theory doesn’t cut it. Theory only goes so far. Central Asian farmers are stuck between theory and reality.” The CAHP commercial enterprise connects theory with orchard farming reality, showing local growers how to adopt these same practices. And it is a step of faith for CAHP as they invest time, resources and capital into a new business, but a step they are willing to take.

In partnership with CAHP are many long-time US-based growers. These experts have been working alongside CAHP since its inception in 1998. Brown adds, “Our U.S. based partner growers, a majority of which are located in Yakima, Washington, are closely involved and are advising us on what next steps to take.”

These US-based experts provide the skills and training needed in Central Asia. “They take their faith and their vocations as growers very seriously.  If we can emulate them, we can succeed. And we can demonstrate to our local Central Asian farmers how they also can succeed,” adds Brown.

This commercial venture will help Central Asian growers get a long-term vision for their farms. Today’s typical orchard produces 10 -20 tons per hectare (2.2 acres).  A modern farm should produce 40-90 tons per hectare. Improving these small farms can transform entire communities.

Currently, there are over 26,000 growers in Central Asia. The majority of these farms are small and only a fraction has participated in CAHP. However, with this new venture, plus the sound reputation CAHP has earned over the past 12 years as being a training center of excellence, knowledge and integrity, they hope to increase their number to 2% of the fruit farming population in the next five years, a total that comes to 520 Central Asian farmers.

For more information about CAHP and its enterprise, please contact Stan Brown at .