Nevşin Mengü / "What Happened Today?" Expert Opinion on Relocating Olive Groves

In an episode of the “What Happened Today?” program on Nevşin Mengü’s YouTube channel, Prof. Dr. Mücahit Taha Özkaya from Ankara University’s Faculty of Agriculture provided insights into the ongoing debate about the relocation of olive groves. Responding to remarks made by geologist Prof. Dr. Celal Şengör on social media, who stated, “Olive groves can be relocated, why not?” Özkaya affirmed that moving olive trees is not only feasible but also technically and practically viable.

Can Olive Groves Be Relocated?

Can Olive Groves Be Relocated?

Özkaya emphasized that relocating olive trees is not only possible but also a common practice in agriculture and landscaping. “A 10-year-old olive tree can be relocated, as can a 3,000-year-old one,” he said, elaborating on the technical details: “Trees can be uprooted and replanted in another location. For instance, in Spain, producers who want to renovate their olive groves reduce the spacing between trees by uprooting older ones and selling them to landscaping companies. These trees are then used for decorative purposes in corporate lobbies or shopping malls.”

Özkaya also pointed to historical examples to support his claim. He recalled that during the Syrian Civil War, olive trees were transported from Aleppo to Turkey by trucks. “Olive trees adapt to any environment. There’s a reason they’re called ‘immortal trees’—even if you cut and relocate them, they regrow,” he noted.

What Should Be Considered During Relocation?

Özkaya highlighted several key considerations during the relocation process, particularly the need to avoid damaging the trees’ root systems. “After relocation, trees undergo an adaptation period, which may cause a temporary delay in yield,” he explained, likening the process to rejuvenating old orchards. “With hard pruning and rejuvenation techniques, trees can adapt to their new locations,” he added.

Mining vs. Olive Groves?

Another dimension of the debate is whether olive groves should be sacrificed for mining operations. Özkaya refrained from taking a definitive stance but suggested that the ability to relocate olive groves offers an alternative solution to this dilemma. “We don’t have to choose between olive groves and mining. Olive trees can be relocated and thrive in new areas,” he said.

Conclusion

Prof. Dr. Mücahit Taha Özkaya underscored that relocating olive groves is a viable solution from both agricultural and environmental perspectives, provided it is carried out with the right techniques by experts. The ability to relocate olive trees presents new opportunities, both economically and ecologically.

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