Green worm threatens cotton production in Rhodope

On August 12, 2024, following directives from the Governor of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, Hristodoulos Topsidis, a team led by Rodopi Deputy Regional Governor Emmanuil Tapatzas and Deputy Head of the Primary Sector and Veterinary Division Ridvan Hacı Mehmet, along with agricultural experts, conducted inspections in the affected cotton fields.

The experts noted that the green worm infestation is particularly severe in the Yassiköy Municipality area of Rodopi. Despite efforts by farmers to follow expert advice and carry out pesticide treatments, the infestation has continued to damage the cotton crops.

During the field visits, the team found that up to 50% of the crops in the infested areas have already been destroyed. If the situation continues unchecked, experts estimate that the damage could escalate to 80% by the time of harvest.

The affected cotton farmers, who are facing significant financial losses, have appealed to regional authorities for compensation. In response, the officials and experts have initiated efforts to assess and address the damages caused by the green worm infestation to support the impacted farmers.