Leader Cooperation in Malta
October 27, 2024
Italian and Maltese LAGs cooperate for the preservation of the genetic resources of olive trees
Maltese and Italian Local Action Groups worked together with a research institution to protect the genetic resources of olive trees in the Maltese Islands.
Summary
This LEADER project involved a transnational exchange of good practices in olive tree cultivation between two Local Action Groups from Malta and Italy. Knowledge-sharing focused on the recovery and exploitation of a local Maltese variety of olive tree that produces extra virgin oil. Several awareness-raising and dissemination activities were organised, followed by the publication of press and scientific articles.
Results
- The genetic study identified 46 different genotypes in Maltese olive trees.
- The study supported the preservation of the Maltese olive germplasm and highlighted its importance as a genetic source capable of facing new agronomic challenges and future climatic constraints.
- The project created two fixed-term full-time jobs.
Promoter
LAG Xlokk Foundation
Funding
Total budget: 124 527 (EUR)
EAFRD: 74 250 (EUR)
National/Regional: 24 750 (EUR)
Private: 2 503 (EUR)
Other sources: 23 024 (EUR) – co-financing by the Maltese Ministry for the National Heritage, the Arts and Local Government
