Governor Kim Jin-tae Inspects Yanggu Horticultural Farms: "Winter Strawberries to Become Gangwon's Key Crop"

Gangwon Province Strengthens Foundation for High-Quality Winter Fruit Production
Invests 16.9 Billion Won in Horticultural Facilities

On January 7, Gangwon Province Governor Kim Jin-tae visited a horticultural farm located in Yanggu County to closely inspect preparations for cold waves and heavy snowfall, as well as to listen to the voices of farmers on site.

Gangwon Province Governor Jin Tae Kim is conducting a focused inspection on cold wave and heavy snow preparedness at a horticultural farm located in Yanggu County on the 7th. Provided by Gangwon Province

This inspection was carried out to ensure that Gangwon Province can maintain a stable agricultural production base during the winter cold, with the aim of establishing itself as a major production area for high-quality winter fruits.

Strawberries are one of the crops that significantly contribute to farmers' income during the winter, with Gyeongnam and Chungnam traditionally known as the main production regions. However, due to recent climate change, cultivation has become possible in Gangwon Province as well. In particular, the region's large temperature fluctuations have resulted in firmer fruit and excellent quality, extending the harvest period and enhancing competitiveness.

On site that day were Governor Kim Jin-tae, National Assemblyman Han Kiho (representing Chuncheon, Cheorwon, Hwacheon, and Yanggu), and horticultural farmers, including strawberry growers. They checked the insulation status of the facilities and the growth conditions of the crops.

Because horticultural farms utilize greenhouses and other artificial facilities, sudden temperature drops in winter can increase heating costs and affect crop growth. In particular, it is necessary to manage insulation and humidity to prepare for temperature drops at dawn, and careful inspection of facilities is required during heavy snowfall.

Governor Kim Jin-tae meticulously checked the operation of insulation curtains, heating conditions inside the greenhouses, and emergency measures in case of power outages. He urged farmers, "As the Korea Meteorological Administration has issued a cold wave advisory effective from 9 p.m. today across the province, please thoroughly inspect your facilities in advance by blocking drafts in the greenhouses and operating insulation curtains in a timely manner."

He added, "Strawberries are gaining attention as a key source of winter income for farmers. We will do our utmost to strengthen stable production and distribution systems in the province to help stabilize farmers' incomes."

Meanwhile, the province is supporting the purchase of tax-free fuel for agricultural use to reduce heating costs for horticultural farms in winter and to establish a year-round production and supply base for agricultural products. In addition, at the end of 2024, Gangwon Province enacted the 'Ordinance on the Promotion and Support of Horticultural Facilities,' providing a legal basis for support. This year, a total of 16.9 billion won will be invested in projects such as the modernization of greenhouses and horticultural facilities.

After the on-site inspection, a meeting was held with horticultural farmers to listen to their difficulties and suggestions regarding facility management. The province plans to actively reflect the opinions raised on site in future support policies and countermeasures.