GYSU Timeline

Phase I Activities

Within the scope of the first phase of GYSU, carried out between July and December 2024, a strong field-based analysis and collaboration infrastructure was established.

During this period, a comprehensive current state analysis was primarily conducted; face-to-face meetings were held with public institutions, local governments, professional organizations, academic institutions, private sector representatives, and producers. A survey study conducted with 387 grape producers in the region, particularly in Alaşehir, provided detailed data on irrigation and fertilization habits, water-saving practices, and the level of analysis usage. The findings indicated that while soil and water analysis are not yet widespread, producers are open and eager to transition to correct practices. Indeed, the challenges and opportunities visual strongly summarizes this subject.

In the same period, to strengthen coordination among stakeholders, the foundations of a multi-stakeholder collaboration platform were laid, and a collaboration workshop was organized in Manisa. Thanks to these efforts, common priorities were identified between the public-private sector and producer representatives, and a concrete roadmap was created for the field studies, analyses, and training activities to be carried out in the second phase.

GYSU Project Phase I has successfully established the necessary institutional, technical, and social ground for implementing practices that will create a measurable impact in the Gediz Basin.

Phase II Activities

The second phase of GYSU was carried out between January and June 2025, focusing on field-oriented applications.

In this context, producer visits and face-to-face interviews were conducted in 23 vineyards across Salihli, Sarıgöl, Saruhanlı, and Alaşehir; on-site assessments were made regarding fertilization, irrigation, use of analysis, and infrastructure needs. Field findings revealed that soil and water analyses are frequently performed but not sufficiently reflected in decision-making processes, with producers largely relying on guidance from pesticide dealers. Conversely, all producers stated their willingness to provide samples for analysis, and approximately 80% expressed interest in participating in training programs.

In line with the data obtained, applied training sessions were organized in 5 different locations, reaching 65 producers (exceeding the target). During the same period, collaboration protocols began to be signed with public institutions, research institutes, and agricultural technology firms; technical infrastructure was established for pilot applications, analysis-based prescriptions, and monitoring processes. Additionally, the setup of a digital platform to support continuous communication between stakeholders was initiated.

Phase II has been a critical stage that advanced the GYSU Project in the field with data-driven, applicable, and scalable solutions.

Phase III Activities

Within the scope of the work carried out between July and December 2025, the detailed interpretation of soil and leaf sap analyses performed by project partner Topraq formed the basis for customized nutrition recommendations developed for three different enterprises. To document and share the findings, technical analysis and prescription reports were prepared, including both the interpretation of sap analyses and practical nutrition suggestions. These enterprise-specific prescriptions were developed in line with the analysis results and shared directly with the producers. This aimed to increase nutrient efficiency, improve fertilization timing, and encourage long-term behavioral change in water and fertilizer management.

Furthermore, pilot field applications were launched in collaboration with the Manisa Viticulture Research Institute. Agricultural practices were carried out in two designated vineyard plots totaling 8,000 square meters—one at the Institute’s Yeşilyurt Station and the other in the Şahyar Neighborhood. By planning the collection of soil and irrigation water samples from these plots and surrounding areas, the goal was to create site-specific fertilization and irrigation programs. Comparing the controlled pilot areas with neighboring plots will allow for the assessment of the practical field effects of responsible fertilizer and water use under real-world conditions.

Beyond individual enterprise and field applications, during this phase, the project engaged in active interaction through a series of targeted meetings with local and regional stakeholders, such as the Manisa Viticulture Research Institute, Manisa Metropolitan Municipality, Manisa Commodity Exchange, Alaşehir Chamber of Agriculture, and Şahyar Irrigation Cooperative. These interactions contributed to identifying institutional entry points, strengthening local ownership, and increasing the scalability of the approach.