The regional government of Kamchatka (Russia) are working on a mechanism to use geothermal water for growing vegetables in the Bystrinsky region, where geothermal sources are already used for heating homes, reports the site of the regional government.
Tough climate conditions hinder the development of agriculture in Kamchatka, where greenhouses require alternative ways of heating. Therefore most of the vegetables and berries are imported to Kamchatka from the “mainland”, which has direct influence on their price.
“We should treat geothermal water as a resource so that it gives maximum value. An important thing here is that we can use it not only for heating but for the agricultural sphere too”, mentioned Mr. Vladimir Solodkov, temporarily acting as governor.
Mr. Mikhail Mishura, acting as head of Esso regional center, has supported the idea of Mr. Vladimir Solodkov. “The dwellers of Esso could use the water efficiently, build greenhouse complexes and supply fresh vegetables not only to the village but to the whole region”, he said.
In June, President Putin assigned the task to the government to make suggestions on vegetable production development in the Far Eastern region. The vice-president, Yury Trutnev, noted that the level of food safety should be raised in the Far East with the help of the investment projects, related to food production. He also mentioned that such projects should receive special financial support.
Source: tass.ru