Sowing campaign kicks off in North Kazakhstan

The spring sowing campaign has kicked off in North-Kazakhstan oblast, KazTAG reports citing the press-service of North-Kazakhstan oblast administration. “Akim (Governor) of North-Kazakhstan oblast Samat Yeskendirov rendered a visit to Kyzylzhar region on Wednesday to check on the course of the spring sowing campaign in Yakor Agro, Lesnoi and Vagulinskoye farms,” the press-service writes. “Agricultural organizations of North-Kazakhstan oblast have started the sowing campaign today. This year’s plan is to sow at the area of 4.4 million hectares. The grain area will exceed 3.5 million hectares,” the Akim said. Yeskendirov stressed that areas for sowing oil-bear and forage crops will be increased to ensure diversification of crops. Oil-bearing crops will be sowed at the area of around 370 thousand hectares and forage crops will be grown at 320 thousand hectares. According to the press-service, over 75 percent of the crop area will be treated using highly-efficient agricultural machines. Around 2 billion tenge ($13.3 million) worth of new vehicles have been purchased in the oblast since the beginning of this year. “The oblast Akim told that the work performed the farms during preparation for the campaign, the state support to the agrarian sector and good weather conditions are expected to result in an at least last-5 year's-average harvest,” the press-service states.