Специалисты ОФ «САМР Алатоо» разработали оборудование для сбора семян

“CAMP Alatoo” PF Experts Develop Custom Seed Collection Equipment

A manual mini-harvester for seed collection has successfully undergone field testing. Residents of the Zhekendi aiyl aimak in the Chon-Alai district were the first to test the new technology. The practical demonstration was part of a training workshop titled "Pasture Restoration Methods: Collecting and Properly Sowing Grass Seeds," organized for local communities at the end of summer.

The device was created by modifying a standard electric lawn trimmer. The cutting blades were replaced with soft combing attachments and specialized collection containers.

According to the developers, the mini-harvester enables local residents to harvest and process seeds of wild grass species naturally adapted to the local climate. Seed collection and sowing represent a crucial step in restoring natural grass cover.

The training brought together around 20 participants, including representatives of local authorities, from all villages of the Zhekendi aiyl aimak, business owners, and active members of local women's and youth councils, as well as elders' courts (Courts of Aksakals).

The training program combined lectures and group exercises covering seasonal pasture types, stocking rate calculation methods, pasture rotation rules, and weed control techniques. During the field session, in addition to testing the seed collector, participants learned how to assess grass quality, estimate yields using the clip-and-weigh method, and select appropriate soil cultivation machinery.

Upon completing the workshop, participants received a practical action plan for pasture improvement, which includes specific seed overseeding rates and techniques to protect young seedlings. Knowledge assessments conducted before and after the training showed a 15% increase in participants' awareness of sustainable pasture management.

The event was held within the framework of the " Piece forest initiative pilot project on nature-based solutions for climate resilience and social cohesion in Central Asia," implemented by the “CAMP Alatoo” PF with support from UNDP in the Chon-Alai district of the Osh region.