The WaterMellon PRIMA project, a groundbreaking initiative involving 20 partners from 10 Mediterranean countries, has taken a significant step forward with the first-ever Regional Farmers Group (RFG) meeting in Limassol, Cyprus. This milestone reflects the project’s commitment to engaging farmers directly in shaping sustainable, water-smart agricultural practices.
The Mediterranean region faces severe water stress, and WaterMellon PRIMA aims to tackle this challenge by combining traditional water-saving techniques with modern, eco-friendly farming solutions, such as drought-resistant crops, forgotten local plant varieties, and smart irrigation. The project not only provides practical solutions for farmers but also promotes environmental protection.
The Cyprus case study has been central to this effort. In preparation, several preparatory meetings were held across Paphos, Larnaca, and Limassol during July–September 2025, engaging carob distribution cooperatives to form the backbone of the new Regional Farmers Group.
In February 2026, Frederick Research Center (FRC), in collaboration with the Pan-Agricultural Association of Cyprus, officially launched the RFG with its first meeting in Limassol. Twenty-one carob farmers from across the island participated, discussing the project’s goals, the Cyprus case study, and the challenges and opportunities of carob cultivation.
The meeting included a comprehensive presentation covering project partners, duration, cropping systems, and treatments, supported by photos from the Cyprus demonstration site and a dedicated project roll-up banner. Farmers engaged enthusiastically in discussions about soil improvement techniques and materials used to enhance drought and salinity tolerance in carob trees.
The successful launch of the RFG marks a key milestone for WaterMellon PRIMA, ensuring that farmers’ expertise and feedback will continue to shape the project’s implementation and long-term sustainability. Participants left the meeting energized and looking forward to future gatherings.
