Jeongeup is set to spend 3.2 billion won (US$ 2.87 million) in the development of products and plant facilities for oat farmers before the end of the year. (image: Jeongeup Oat Farming Association)
JEONGEUP, May 31 (Korea Bizwire) — The city of Jeongeup is planning to promote its oat industry as a supplier of high quality, renowned oat products.
City officials said on May 29 that the city would work on a long-term project to provide oat farmers with oat varieties apt to be cultivated in the region.
Oat farmers in Jeongeup produce about 70 percent of the nation’s oats, with 86 farms in the city producing a total of 800 tons every year.
However, at a recent local conference for oat producers, farmers pushed for the introduction of new oat varieties that can withstand the city’s unique environment and weather.
Park Hyeong-Ho, a researcher at the National Institute of Crop Science, said that more research about oats is needed in Korea, as oats are especially susceptible to cold weather.
It is estimated that it will take about 10 years to develop new varieties.
Yang Shim-Muk, Jeongeup’s deputy mayor, said that the city would also develop projects related to processed foods containing oats.
The city is set to spend 3.2 billion won (US$ 2.87 million) in the development of products and plant facilities for oat farmers before the end of the year.
By J. W. Choi (summerchoi@koreabizwire.com)
