"Annals of the University of Craiova - Agriculture Montanology Cadastre Series "

THE MAIN BIOMETRIC CHARACTERISTICS OF THE LEAVES OF THE LOCAL AND AUTOCHTHONOUS GRAPE CULTIVARS GROWN IN THE AMPELOGRAPHIC COLLECTION OF RDSVW DRĂGĂŞANI

2025-01-06T16:24:59+00:00

The study was carried out between 2020-2022 in the ampelographic collection of RDSVW Drăgăşani, on old local and autochthonous grape cultivars.The study followed the main biometric characteristics of the leaves, carried out by the Duncan method and the Tukey statistical test (p<0.05), an in-depth analysis of the leaves of these grape cultivars, where the length of the leaf, the width of the foliar leaf, the leaf height, leaf radius, the perimeter of the leaf and petiole length. It can be seen that the differences are insignificant from the point of view of the average, the standard deviation and the Average +/- Standard Deviation ratio for all the leaves analyzed for each individual grape cultivar.

THE EFFECT OF SOME FUNGICIDES ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL PROCESSES IN VITIS VINIFERA L. PLANTS ATTACKED BY GUIGNARDIA BIDWELLII (ELLIS) VIALA & RAVAZ

2025-01-06T17:22:50+00:00

Researches regarding the effect of some fungicides on the physiological processes were performed on Vitis vinifera L., Cardinal variety, cultivated in the Oltenia region. The physiological analyses were carried out according to the climatic conditions on July 14th 2023 in the treated plants with the fungicide and in the attacked plants by Guignardia bidwellii (Ellis) Viala & Ravaz in which treatments with fungicide have not been performed. In the leaves of the Vitis vinifera L. plants attacked by the pathogen it was observed that the physiological processes’ intensity is lower as a result of the effects produced by the pathogen manifested by the appearance of circular spots, light brown with darker edges and then necrosis of the central portion of these spots. In the leaves of the attacked plants there were recorded lower values of chlorophyll content, compared to the leaves of the plants treated with fungicide, thus there is a positive correlation between the chlorophyll content and the intensity of photosynthesis.

BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF THE WEED SPECIES CIRSIUM ARVENSE (L.) SCOP. USING FUNGAL AGENTS – AN OVERVIEW

2025-01-06T19:34:25+00:00

In Romania, the field weed species Cirsium arvense (L.) Scop. is native. In the last decade, the creeping thistle has become increasingly difficult to control due to agricultural systems based on monoculture and minimal or no tillage. The invasive nature of the species and its resistance to current herbicides make it increasingly difficult to control, especially in organic farms. Therefore, there is currently great interest in controlling the species with the help of biological agents. This review is based on extensive documentation on the use of fungal biological agents in the control of the creeping thistle. The studies reviewed show that there is interest in biological control, particularly in organic farming. Ten fungal biological agents with the potential to initiate infections in the creeping thistle are currently being investigated. The fungi tested are Puccinia punctiformis, Phomopsis cirsii, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, Alternaria cirsinoxia, Phoma destructiva, Phoma exiqua, Stagonospora cirsii, Septoria cirsii, Phyllosticta cirsii and Fusarium sp. Of these, only Puccinia punctiformis, Phomopsis cirsii and Septoria cirsii have high and very high specificity for creeping thistle. The fungus Puccinia punctiformis stands out by the highest specificity and can be successfully used in the biological control of Cirsium arvense. However, the mass production of spores is tricky because there are no methods to cultivate this biotrophic fungus. Studies published between 2013 and 2024 show the high potential of Puccinia punctiformis to initiate infections that destroy or reduce the density of the creeping thistle in agricultural crops.

VARIATION IN THE CONCENTRATION OF HEMIN PROTEIN IN SWEETENED BLACK TEA

2025-01-06T15:59:20+00:00

Today, tea in the form of black or green tea, is the most widely consumed beverage in the world, next to water. About three billion kilograms of tea is produced and consumed yearly. Tea, made from the plant Camellia sinensis is consumed in different parts of the world. Of the tea produced worldwide, 78% is black tea (produced by fermentation), which is preferred by consumers in Western countries, 20% is green tea, which is commonly consumed in Asian countries, and 2% is Oolong tea (produced by partial fermentation).
The possible beneficial health effects of tea are being extensively investigated and have received a great deal of attention in recent times. Several studies show that black tea contains a number of compounds that reduce the risk of disease.
Heme proteins, that is, proteins containing one or several heme groups, are of immense importance for life on earth). They are involved in a wide range of fundamental cellular processes such as storage and transport of gaseous molecules (e.g. globins), energy conservation (photosynthetic and respiratory cytochromes), catalysis (e.g. detoxification enzymes such as catalase and cytochrome P450), and sensing changes in redox state or concentration of gaseous molecules.
Molecular absorption spectra of the proposed experimental variants were obtained using a T92 Plus UV-VIS spectrophotometer manufactured by PG Instruments U.K.

STATUS OF THE ORNITHOFAUNA IN URBAN AREAS

2025-01-06T17:07:09+00:00

The study area is represented by the city of Varna, focusing on bird populations within this urban agglomeration. Varna’s diverse urban landscape provides an important case for examining both the species composition and distribution of birds, as well as the mechanisms by which species spread and establish themselves within city limits.
This research employs transect sampling across test plots, which are uniformly sized squares distributed throughout the entire urban area. This systematic approach enables a comprehensive survey of the ornithofauna across different types of urban habitats, allowing for detailed mapping of species diversity and population density.

The paper presents the findings on species composition, emphasizing patterns of movement and settlement among various bird populations in response to the unique pressures and resources found in urban settings. By understanding these mechanisms, this research contributes to urban biodiversity conservation and sheds light on the adaptability and resilience of bird species in the face of urbanization.T

RESEARCHING CONSERVATION AGRICULTURE FOR CLIMATE CHANGE ADAPTATION

2025-01-06T18:08:07+00:00

Conservation agriculture is an agricultural system that significantly contributes to climate change adaptation in many countries around the world. Many farmers in the Republic of Moldova are adopting this system and applying it successfully. Unfortunately, agricultural science has lagged for various reasons. A field experiment was conducted on the lands of the National Centre for Research and Seed Production to identify the main issues in cultivating corn under no-tillage systems compared to traditional agricultural systems. The results were next: the germination of cover crops, both in mixed and pure stands, was successful. The amount of water accumulated in the soil during the autumn-winter period was strongly influenced by soil management methods. The highest amount of water, 126 mm, was recorded in the variant where the soil was covered with plant residues. In the autumn-spring period, the cover crops formed up to 10.5 tons per hectare of above-ground dry biomass. Corn grain production ranged from 2.50 to 5.41 tons per hectare in 2023. The general conclusion was that research in conservation agriculture is highly complex and requires time and resources to be conducted successfully. A new research project has been established. The main objectives have been set, and initial investigations have been carried out. To successfully study conservation agriculture, unique and simple, as well as complex and multifactorial experiments, are necessary, along with the demonstration of result.

THE STRUCTURE, DYNAMICS, AND ABUNDANCE OF SPECIES BELONGING TO USEFUL AND HARMFUL FAUNA IN SOME VINEYARDS IN VRANCEA COUNTY IN 2023

2025-02-20T12:17:20+00:00

The observations were made in a vineyard plantation in the Vrancea region using Barber soil traps in 2023. Two variants were used:
• Variant 1: a vineyard plantation located on a hill where chemical treatments were applied to control pathogens and pests.
• Variant 2: a vineyard plantation located on a hill where no chemical treatments were applied to control pathogens and pests.
The material collection from the traps was carried out periodically from June to August on the following dates: 21.06, 30.06, 10.07, 16.07, 26.07, 02.08, 14.08. The material collected from the traps was then cleaned of plant debris, preserved in 40% alcohol, and identified, focusing solely on epigeal arthropod species from the order Coleoptera.
The highest number of specimens and species collected belonged to the family Carabidae. Among the most frequently collected species and those with the highest number of specimens, we mention: Opatrum sabulosum, Harpalus distinguendus, Crypticus quisquilius, Amara aenea, Ontophagus ovatus, Formicomus pedestris, etc.

THE ECOPHYSIOLOGICAL RESPONSE TO WATER STRESS OF SOME PLANT SPECIES FROM THE DOMOGLED-CERNA VALLEY PROTECTED AREA

2025-01-06T14:47:03+00:00

Domogled-Cerna Valey is a protected area characterized by a climate with sub-Mediterranean influences. The lithological and pedological substrate, as well as the specific climate, have given a xerophilic character to the area's flora and vegetation. But even for the vegetation adapted to these conditions, climate changes with very long periods of drought have created significant physiological imbalances, which in the longer term (if those conditions are maintained) will cause changes in the structure of the habitats.
The determinations were made in Tesna-Valley Natural Reserve, and the plants studied were Genista tinctoria, Cerastium banaticum, Dianthus petraeus, Hypericum rochelii. The very low values of the photosynthesis intensities determined in 2024, low biomass accumulations, and the decrease in the growth rate, affecting also the flowering and fruiting processes. If these conditions continue to manifest in the coming years, it is possible that the number of individuals in the populations will change significantly.

VARIATION OF HEMIN PROTEIN CONCENTRATION IN GREEN TEA AFTER SWEETENING

2025-01-06T16:40:02+00:00

Green tea is obtained by processing the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Tea contains active substances that act on the central nervous system, the circulatory system and is a good diuretic. It is rich in mineral salts and vitamins, especially vitamin C, and helps to strengthen the immune system. Tea leaves contain tannins, amino acids, carbohydrates and essential oils that give the tea its colour and flavour. Green tea is recognized for its high antioxidant potential, being very rich in polyphenolic compounds, vitamins, and pro-vitamins.
Chlorophyll is remarkably similar in structure to hemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying pigment found in the red blood cells of mammals and other vertebrates
Hemoproteins are the photosynthetic and respiratory cytochromes, involved in electron transfer, and the globin that bind oxygen.
In order to determine the variation of heme protein concentration in green tea after sweetening, UV-VIS optical spectrometry and mathematical statistics were used.

THE INFLUENCE OF VARIETY AND SOME TECHNOLOGICAL FACTORS ON FRUIT FIRMNESS AND PRODUCTIVITY ON THREE APRICOT VARIETIES CULTIVATED AT THE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT STATION FOR FRUIT GROWING BĂNEASA, BUCHAREST

2025-01-06T17:40:55+00:00

The nutritional value of apricots, the high production potential of apricot trees, the fact that the trees bear fruit relatively early, and the ripening of the fruit occurs during a period when there is a scarcity of other fruits, making it relatively easy to market at high prices, make apricot a species desired by farmers for their orchards. In order to study the influence of certain technological factors on fruit quality, particularly regarding resistance to handling, transport, and storage, we selected three well-known varieties on the market: Amiral, Goldrich, and Olimp grafted on to the rootstock Constanta 14, which imparts favorable characteristics. We also conducted determinations on the influence of planting distances on productivity, analyzing planting distances of 4.0 x 1.5 m and 4.0 x 2.0 m. The best results were obtained for the Amiral variety, where the statistical results were rated as significant compared to the other varieties, for both planting distance variants (4.0 x 1,5 m - 9.02 t/ha and at 4.0 x 2,0 m - 10.90 t/ha. Till the end of the growing season, treatments with calcium-based products were applied, with the final objective of observing their effect on the firmness of the fruit pulp. Among the analyzed varieties, the best firmness, important for good storage resistance, was determined for the Goldrich variety planted at 4.0 x 2.0 m- 2.67 kgf/cm² treated with Ca compared to the variant planted at 4.0 x 2.0 m but not treated with calcium with the firmness value- 1.82 kgf/cm². There are varieties that may respond differently to treatments, as Olimp variety, which had a higher yield without treatment. This shows that not all varieties respond uniformly to treatments and that there may be genetic variability in their ability to utilize available nutrients.

THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TEACHING BIOLOGY AND HEALTH EDUCATION BY USING INTERACTIVE METHODS

2025-01-06T16:09:32+00:00

The aim of the article is to research the effectiveness of teaching health education by using interactive methods in Biology and Health Education lessons. The experiment covers 108 students, divided into two groups - experimental (E1) and control (E2). The analysis of the research results is carried out according to the following indicators: amount of knowledge; meaningfulness of knowledge; knowledge transfer. The results show that the use of interactive methods in teaching the subject matter to 7th grade students produced better results in all three experimental topics compared to lessons taught only by using a traditional teaching model. The students' knowledge of E1, where different interactive methods were applied, such as the method of associations using mind maps, role-plays and case studies, was more complete. The students of E1 did better, as in all three lessons they worked in teams, discussed, debated, analyzed and drew conclusions, while the students of E2 showed more gaps in their knowledge. E1 students did better when solving tasks that put them in a non-standard situation, in contrast to E2 students, who had greater difficulties in applying theoretical knowledge to practice.

THE INFLUENCE OF SOME FOLIAR FERTILIZERS ON THE PHYSIOLOGICAL PROCESSES IN CITRULLUS LANATUS (THUNB.) MATSUM. & NAKAI PLANTS CULTIVATED IN THE CLIMATIC CONDITIONS OF THE OLTENIA REGION - ROMANIA

2025-01-06T17:14:20+00:00

Researches regarding the influence of of some foliar fertilizers on the physiological processes were carried out on Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.) Matsum. & Nakai plants, Oltenia variety, cultivated in the Oltenia region - Romania. The physiological analyses carried out according to the climatic conditions on June 30th 2023, both for watermelon plants fertilized with Green-Top and also for the watermelon plants in which fertilized have not been performed.
In fertilized plants, compared to non-fertilized plants, it was observed that the intensity of physiological processes has higher values as a result of the application of foliar fertilizer with a positive effect on plants growth and development. In the fertilized plants were recorded higher values of chlorophyll content, thus existing a positive correlation between this content and the photosynthesis intensity. Fertilized plants also had a higher water content and a lower dry matter content, compared to unfertilized plants.

THE IMPACT OF MCPA (2-METHYL-4-CHLOROPHENOXYACETIC ACID) IN THE CONTROL OF CIRSIUM ARVENSE AND TARAXACUM OFFICINALE SPECIES IN GRASSLAND ECOSYSTEMS

2025-01-06T18:27:57+00:00

This study aimed to determine the impact of MCPA (2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid) in reducing Cirsium arvense and Taraxacum officinale species in grassland ecosystems. The presence of Cirsium arvense and Taraxacum officinale species represents an obstacle in the preservation and restoration of biodiversity in temporary meadows. At the same time, these species reduce the yield of meadows, a fact that requires the application of control methods. The practical ecosystem in which the study was carried out belongs to the town of Carani, Timiș county. To reduce the population of Cirsium arvense and Taraxacum officinale were applied three herbicides: MCPA 50% DMA, MCPA 75% DMA and Starane. Hormonal herbicides MCPA 50% DMA (0.9 l/ha, 1.2 l/ha, 1.5 l/ha, 2.0l/ha) and MCPA 75% DMA (0.6 l/ha, 0.8 l/ha, 1.0 l/ha, 1.3 l/ha) were applied in four doses. The impact of the substance MCPA, in the control of Cirsium arvense and Taraxacum officinale species, was determined at 15 – 28 and 42 days after application. The herbicides used in the experiment reduced Cirsium arvense and Taraxacum officinale populations in grassland ecosystems by 60-100%. The application of 2-methyl-4-chlorophenoxyacetic acid (MCPA), in different doses, led to a survival of common dandelio, in the experimental variants of 3.33 - 20%. The population being controlled in a proportion of 80-96.67%, 42 days after applying the treatments. The impact of the herbicide, hormonal, MCPA was lower in population control of Cirsium arvense. The effectiveness of the herbicides depended on both the active substance content and the applied dose.

THE CHARACTERIZATION OF THE HABITAT 7110* - ACTIVE RAISED BOGS FROM THE NATURA 2000 SITE ROSCI0002 APUSENI

2025-02-20T12:24:16+00:00

The Natura 2000 site ROSCI0002 Apuseni, whose boundaries largely overlap with those of the Apuseni Natural Park, with only minor exceptions, was designated for the protection of habitats and species, including wetland and peatland habitats. In this report is analyzed a priority peatland habitat, specifically Habitat 7110* - Active raised bogs (PAL. CLASS.: 51.1), which holds high conservation value at the European level. This peatlands, which store large quantities of carbon within peat layers, generally cover small areas and are under threat of disappearance.
Habitat 7110*, identified within the ROSCI0002 Apuseni protected natural area following studies conducted over two vegetation seasons in 2021-2022, is complexly characterized in terms of distribution, floristic and phytocenological diversity and the management measures necessary to preserve its typical structure.

STUDIES ON THE PHYSIOLOGY OF THE SPECIES FAGUS SYLVATICA L. IN THE CLIMATE CONDITIONS OF THE YEAR 2024 FROM THE PROTECTED AREA DOMOGLED-CERNA VALLEY

2025-01-06T14:55:32+00:00

The studies were carried out in 2024, starting from April and ending in October, in the Tesna Gorges and Stan's Peak Natural Reserves from the Domogled-Cerna Valley protected area. The processes targeted were photosynthesis, transpiration and leaf respiration. Also, were determined: cell sap concentration, osmotic pressure of mesophyll cells, total leaf water content, free and bound water.
The intensity of the photosynthesis process was determined in the year 2024 in each month of the vegetation period to make the seasonal variation graphs. After analyzing these graphs, it was found that the photosynthesis process recorded a maximum in June, followed by a reduction in the intensity of the process, although it was normal to remain at high values until the time of fruiting. The reduction in photosynthesis was due to very high temperatures associated with very low soil moisture.
The total reduced leaf water content recorded since July indicated a negative water balance caused by the very low amount of available water.

POLLEN GRAINS OF DIFFERENT DECIDUOUS TREES

2025-01-06T16:51:48+00:00

The study of pollen of deciduous trees helps us understand biological diversity, plant evolution and the impact of climate change on ecosystems. Deciduous trees play a crucial role in these studies due to their ecological and biological characteristics. Studying pollen can reveal how climate fluctuations influence vegetation. Changes in the patterns of rainfall and temperature can affect the pollination period and pollen production. Deciduous trees, through their adaptations, can provide clues about how ecosystems will behave in the face of future climate change. Analyses show that pollen grains have morphological characteristics that allow the identification of different species and genera of flowering plants. Pollen classification based on structural characteristics show great variation in size, shape, number of apertures and surface texture. The study of pollen of deciduous trees is essential for understanding the dynamics of forest ecosystems, providing insights into biodiversity and the adaptability of plants to environmental conditions.

CARBON DIOXIDE EMISSIONS. HISTORY AND METHODS OF THEIR REDUCTION THROUGH DIFFERENTIAL AGRICULTURAL TECHNOLOGIES

2025-01-06T17:52:14+00:00

Human (anthropogenic) influence, mostly generalized industry, intensive conventional agriculture, traffic and others, causes the increase of concentration of greenhouse gases to a level by which significantly more heat is radiated back to the earth than it was in the initial state. This is how climate warming occurs. At the international level, periodic inventories are carried out that show the fact that the biosphere absorbs, approximately, half of the anthropogenic CO2 emissions, and at the terrestrial level, the carbon source and reserve is given by the northern hemisphere.
This study presents some results from the literature regarding the methods of C emissions reduction and its sequestration per surface unit, i.e. per hectare of agricultural crops, to increase the contribution of agriculture to environmental depollution. The used methods included searching of databases, such as Web of Science or Google Scholar, in order to identify some relevant results.
Reducing CO2 emissions can be achieved through biological, chemical and technological options, either by reducing or sequestering them.

OBSERVATIONS ON THE STRUCTURE, DYNAMICS AND ABUNDANCE OF EPIGEOUS ARTHROPODS IN SOME GRAPEVINE PLANTATIONS IN VRANCEA COUNTY

2025-02-20T11:46:11+00:00

The observations were made in a vineyard plantation in the Vrancea region using Barber soil traps in 2023. Two variants were used:
• Variant 1: a vineyard plantation located on a hill where chemical treatments were applied to control pathogens and pests.
• Variant 2: a vineyard plantation located on a hill where no chemical treatments were applied to control pathogens and pests.
The material collection from the traps was carried out periodically from June to August on the following dates: 21.06, 30.06, 10.07, 16.07, 26.07, 02.08, 14.08. The material collected from the traps was then cleaned of plant debris, preserved in 40% alcohol, and identified, focusing solely on epigeous arthropod species from the order Coleoptera.
The highest number of specimens and species collected belonged to the family Carabidae. Among the species collected were: Harpalus distinguendus, Harpalus tardus, Harpalus binotatus, Carabus scabriusculus, all belonging to the family Carabidae.
Other species from the order Coleoptera were also collected, belonging to the following families: Tenebrionidae, Staphilinidae, Elateridae, Curculionidae.

PRELIMINARY OBSERVATION REGARDING THE AVIFAUNA FROM CORCOVA AREA (MEHEDINȚI COUNTY)

2025-01-06T14:34:23+00:00

Preliminary data on the avifaunal diversity of the Corcova area (Mehedinți County) are presented in this study. Corcova commune, located in a hilly area, on the right bank of Motru River, in the eastern part of the Coșuștei Piedmont, is known as an important wine-growing center; the vineyards of Corcova were recognized in documents since the 15th century. The diversity of natural habitats (deciduous forests, meadows, pastures, hayfields, grassy lands, river courses, wetlands, ponds, riparian zones), which are interwoven with anthropogenic habitats (cultivated fields, access roads, rural perimeters, etc.) existing in the investigated area, represent suitable feeding, roosting and breeding sites for numerous bird species. The preliminary list includes 86 bird species observed in July-October 2023 and 2024. Of the birds highlighted, the species of European conservation concern listed in the Annexes of international legislation (Birds Directive EC /2009, Annex 1) caught our attention: Ciconia ciconia, Egretta garzetta, Pernis apivorus, Falco vespertinus, Alcedo atthis, Coracias garrulus, Picus canus, Dendrocoptes medius (Leiopicus medius), Dendrocopos syriacus, Lanius collurio, Ficedula albicollis, F. parva, Anthus campestris; and in need of conservation measures in order to mitigate the anthropogenic pressures and threats to which they are exposed (agricultural and forestry practices, extension of built-up areas, land use changes, fishing, etc.) and climatic pressures.

STUDY ON KNOWLEDGE OF THE SITUATION OF MOUNTAIN AREAS IN ROMANIA AND OF THE POSSIBILITIES FOR DEVELOPMENT THROUGH THE USE OF SPECIFIC STRUCTURAL FUNDS

2025-01-23T16:05:20+00:00

The analysis of the Romanian mountain areas highlights the complexity of the monetary and ecological challenges confronted with the aid of mountain areas, characterized by means of problems in the use of agricultural land due to climatic, geological, and slope situations. Mountain areas are considered deprived, their ecological fragility requires specific improvement measures. The exodus of young human beings and the poverty, related to unsustainable aid exploitation, positioned extra pressure on those communities. The proposed study offers a case look at mountain regions in Romania, with a special cognizance of the European Union structural funds intended for the improvement of those regions between 2014 and 2020. This observation compares the effect of European structural finances on the development of Romania’s mountain regions between 2014 and 2020, specializing in reading PNDR measures mainly carried out within the mountain areas. The unique measures that had been targeted for mountain regions at some point in that period, such as the finances allotted, the projects selected and shrunk, the bills made, and the consequences of those measures are mentioned within the take a look at. Specific examples and relevant character indicators are presented to guide the achievements in the improvement of mountain regions and applicable guidelines. The measures analyzed encompass investments in farms, the modernization of processing and marketing capacities, as well as support for small family farms. The study used monetary and bodily statistics to evaluate the effect of these measures, providing comparative analyses at country-wide and mountain-particular stages.

DYNAMICS OF OPERATORS AND AREAS FROM ORGANIC AGRICULTURE IN ROMANIA

2025-02-25T12:48:16+00:00

Organic agriculture is the most important source of healthy food for the population, as well as a real solution against environmental pollution. Practicing organic agriculture represents a concrete opportunity and a real chance for rural economies, contributing to sustainable development. The purpose of this paper is to present the dynamics of the operators and surfaces in organic agriculture, in the period 2018-2023 in Romania. The data collected for the studied interval show that the total areas used in organic agriculture in Romania have increased constantly, from 326259.51 ha in 2018 to 693998.31 ha in 2023. Among the cultivated areas, the largest were occupied with cereals, followed by those with industrial and fodder plants. A spectacular increase is observed in the areas of pastures and hays, more than four times in the analyzed interval. Also, the number of operators certified in organic agriculture showed a constant increase during the analyzed period, starting from 9008 operators in 2018 and reaching 14061 operators in 2023. It can be stated that the ecologically cultivated area in Romania has registered a slight revival considering that by the percentage of certified areas is far below the EU average.

STUDIES ON THE REHABILITATION, DEVELOPMENT AND MODERNIZATION OF IRRIGATION INFRASTRUCTURE

2025-09-05T10:53:09+00:00

The establishment of irrigation systems falls within the provisions of Article 73 and Article 74 of Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and contributes to achieving the objective of promoting sustainable development and efficient management of natural resources, such as water, soil, and air, including by reducing chemical dependence. The study focuses exclusively on the modernization of secondary irrigation infrastructure outside the farm. Investments in the modernization of irrigation infrastructure are necessary to improve efficiency by reducing water loss, enhancing energy efficiency, reducing agriculture's dependency on weather conditions, increasing farmers' competitiveness, and helping the sector face long-term challenges
posed by climate change. The modernization, rehabilitation, and development of irrigation infrastructure through the national strategic plan encompasses all operations aimed at improving the operational parameters of irrigation infrastructure through the use of new and modern technologies, equipment, components, and materials to enhance the performance of this infrastructure. This ensures the efficient use of water for irrigation and reduces environmental impact on existing sites without altering their original purpose or functionality. In justified situations, through technical expertise and techno-economic arguments, elements of the infrastructure may be relocated without affecting the functionality of the entire system, for example: relocation of
pressurizing pumping stations, changing the routes of buried pipes, etc.

SOME ASPECTS REGARDING THE TOURIST INFRASTRUCTURE WITHIN THE PROTECTED NATURAL AREAS ROSCI0045 JIULUI CORRIDOR, ROSPA0010 BISTREȚ AND THE NATURAL RESERVES FOSSIL SITE DRĂNIC-2391 AND ZĂVAL FOREST - IV.33+A6

2025-01-23T13:44:18+00:00

The study aims to present the situation of tourist activity for the protected areas ROSCI0045 the Jiu Corridor, ROSPA0010 Bistreț and the Natural Reserves Fossil Site Drănic-2391 and Zăval Forest - IV.33+A6, based on four indicators specific to it: tourist reception structures, tourist accommodation capacity in operation, tourist arrivals in tourist reception structures, overnight stays in tourist reception structures.
The analysed indicators mainly show downward trends in 2021 compared to 2017, an aspect determined, in particular, by the pandemic phenomenon manifested in that period. The number of reception facilities decreased from 64 units in 2017 to 53 units in 2021, the accommodation capacity decreased from 963,518 to 799,089 place-days (2017 and 2021 respectively), tourist arrivals decreased from 116,992 to 72,291 people (2017 and 2021), and the number of overnight stays decreased from 215,015 to 111,582 for 2017 and 2021 respectively.

THE INFLUENCE OF GROUNDWATER QUALITY ON THE PRODUCTION OF SUMMER AND AUTUMN CABBAGE VARIETIES CULTIVATED IN THE TĂMĂȘEȘTI-BĂLEȘTI AREA, GORJ COUNTY

2025-05-08T14:01:10+00:00

Groundwater is an important resource of the planet, which is why reliable solutions have been constantly sought in order to preserve the state of quality, this category of natural resources being generally undervalued or less studied, due to the complexity of the formation and conservation process.
In the situation where, at international level, groundwater is used in a percentage of 20% to irrigate crops, the problem arises of the rational use of water for irrigation in order to reduce water consumption by establishing and expanding economic irrigation technologies in irrigated crops. The use of groundwater to irrigate crops requires, as with surface water, the observance of certain threshold values for certain quality indicators that in large quantities become harmful to plants or accumulate in them and become toxic to humans and animals (FOSTER and HARATA, 1998).
The main objective of this study is to quantify the effect exerted by the use of groundwater on the production and quality of cabbage culture irrigated by two methods (furrow and drip), in Bălești locality (vulnerable area to nitrate pollution), Gorj county.
Keywords: vulnerable area, anthropogenic factor, Directive 2006/118/EC for the protection of groundwater, sensitive area, threshold values.

STUDIES ON INVESTMENTS IN EXPANDING STORAGE CAPACITIES FOR CEREALS AND INDUSTRIAL CROPS THROUGH NON-REIMBURSABLE FUNDS IN THE OLTENIA REGION

2025-09-05T12:58:47+00:00

The NRDP is structured into a series of measures designed to support, modernize, and promote the sustainable development of Romania’s rural areas.Sub-measure 4.2 – “Support for investments in the processing/marketing and/or development of agricultural products” is part of Measure 4 – Investments in physical assets. This sub-measure has multiple objectives: strengthening the competitiveness of primary producers by improving their integration into the agri-food chain, supporting participation in quality schemes, increasing the added value of agricultural products, and promoting their presence on local markets. With regard to DR 22, this intervention is entitled “Investments in conditioning, storage, and processing of agricultural and horticultural products.” It is part of the Strategic Plan for the period 2023–2027 (CAP SP 2023–2027) under the umbrella of the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD). Its primary aim is to modernize and expand infrastructure, ensuring that storage and processing capacities meet both current and future market demands.This study undertakes an analytical approach focused on the number of projects financed and the increase in storage capacity achieved through the absorption of European funds. The analysis concentrates on the modernization of grain and industrial crop storage facilities in the South-West Oltenia Region, during the period 2015–2024, and assesses their impact on the local economy.Ultimately, the paper intends to monitor and highlight the dynamics of modernization projects targeting storage capacities for cereals and industrial crops through Sub-measure 4.2 and DR 22 at the level of the South-West Oltenia Region.

CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK OF WINE TOURISM MODEL IN THE OLTENIA REGION

2025-01-20T13:52:53+00:00

Wine tourism model is an industry with great prospects for economic development in the rural areas of the Oltenia Region. This study develops a conceptual framework of wine tourism model through a review of the relevant literature and an exploratory study of the Oltenia region. Although it has a wine industry with development prospects, the region is well positioned to market new tourism products after the COVID-19 pandemics, which contain the wine experience and product based on a unique regional identity in Romania.
The maps made in this exploratory study can thus be integrated with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) databases to better understand the environmental exploration and defining elements of Romanian vineyards.
For the map with defining elements of vineyards in Romania (for the tourism model), focused on the Oltenia region exploratory study, the data were downloaded from National Institute of Statistics (NIS), for the year 2023.
In conclusion, we believe that it is necessary to develop new wine products after the COVID-19 pandemic, containing the wineries and vineyards of the South-West Oltenia region, but also the organization of wine festivals, because they can provide a favorable environment for the development of new collaborative partnerships and investments between wine producers and stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality industry.

THE EFFECT OF WEATHER CONDITIONS ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF SOME VARIETIES OF WHEAT CULTIVATED AT ARDS SIMNIC

2025-01-23T16:21:59+00:00

The continuous increase of the world population raises one of the most delicate problems, namely the provision of food for mankind. In recent decades, world food production has increased quite a bit. The most effective way to enrich mankind's food resources is to increase the agricultural production per hectare on the current arable land areas, by introducing new varieties and productive hybrids and by improving the cultivation technology. Thus, the variability of production and protein content of 10 common winter wheat genotypes, depending on the climatic and fertilization conditions, was experimented at the Agricultural Development Research Station (ARDS) Șimnic – Craiova during 2020-2023.
As a result of the research carried out, it was found that the tested varieties behaved differently both in terms of production and its quality.

CHITOSAN APPLICATIONS IN FOOD INDUSTRY

2025-02-25T12:59:57+00:00

Chitosan comes from a natural product, chitin, which is found in the exoskeleton (shell) of marine crustaceans (red crabs, shrimps, lobsters etc.) and in the internal structure of other invertebrates (molluscs). Due to its functional activity, chitosan has been widely used in food and medical fields for its antibacterial, antioxidant, inhibitory activity and biodegradability over the last half-century.
The work presents aspects regarding the importance of chitosan in improving people's health, as well as its applications in different fields.

STUDIES ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF IRRIGATION SYSTEMS THROUGH NON-REIMBURSABLE FUNDS

2025-09-05T11:11:36+00:00

The establishment of irrigation systems falls under the provisions of Articles 73 and 74 of Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and Council from December 2, 2021, and contributes to strengthening market orientation and increasing the competitiveness of agricultural farms, both in the short and long term, including a greater focus on research, technology, and digitalization. The analysis of establishing local irrigation systems will be conducted in areas not currently served by existing irrigation infrastructure and will outline the entire water cycle from source to plant, covering the components defined within the irrigation system according to current legislation. In 2024, 14 projects were financed through DR–26, with a total eligible value of 10.36 million euros. Of this amount, 6.71 million euros came from public funds, and 3.65 million euros represented the contribution of beneficiaries. In 2025, the number of projects increased to 29, almost double the previous year. The total eligible value of the projects reached 20.52 million euros, of which 13.09 million euros were public funds, and 7.43 million euros were the contribution of beneficiaries.

STORAGE-CONDITIONING WAREHOUSE LOCATION AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

2025-01-23T15:53:39+00:00

The proper placement of the construction requires specific geotechnical research in the site area, with the aim of providing the data necessary to solve the basic problems and specify the aspects related to: stratification of the land on the site; physical-mechanical characteristics of existing soils; admissible pressures at different foundation levels; probable settlements; framing of field excavations according to TS regulations; frost depth; seismic framing; hydrogeological data.

BIOSTIMULANTS AND THEIR INFLUENCE ON PLANT DEVELOPMENT. COMPARATIVE DATA ON THE MAIN AGRICULTURAL CROPS

2025-07-08T12:31:32+00:00

This paper presents a synthesis of a technological alternative with major impact on crop development and environmental protection — the use of biostimulants. Starting from the definition, classification, and market presence of biostimulants, through to the most recent scientific studies and a bibliometric analysis, this work aims to contribute modestly to the vast body of literature on this important yet incompletely explored topic. Many aspects remain unknown regarding their mode of action and quantifiable influence on agricultural production and vegetative growth. The relevance of this topic aligns with the European Commission’s “Farm to Fork” strategy, which promotes the reduction of fertilizers and pesticide use, and the identification of new products to enhance plant health and productivity.

THE CONDITION OF THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT IN THE NATURAL PROTECTED AREAS ROSCI0045 JIU CORRIDOR, ROSPA0010 BISTREȚ AND THE NATURAL RESERVES DRĂNIC FOSSIL SITE-2391 AND ZĂVAL FOREST- IV.33+A6

2025-01-23T13:05:44+00:00

The paper addresses the condition of the built environment in the protected areas ROSCI0045 Jiu Corridor, ROSPA0010 Bistreț, and the Natural Reserves Drănic Fossil Site-2391 and Zăval Forest- IV.33+A6, considering three specific indicators: the number of housing units, the livable area, and the number of building permits issued. These protected areas play a crucial role in biodiversity conservation within the component administrative units (56 in total, including 37 in Dolj County, 17 in Gorj County, one in Mehedinți County, and one in Olt County) where they are located.
The number of housing units increased from 208,602 in 2017 to 222,680 in 2021, a trend observed predominantly in private properties. The built area for the entire region grew from 10,276,212 m² in 2017 to 11,162,886 m² in 2021. Overall, the area exhibits both ascending and descending trends regarding the number of building permits issued.
The increase in the number of housing units may lead to potentially adverse effects on the protected natural areas. However, with proper urban planning, this negative impact can be mitigated.

STUDIES ON THE POSSIBILITIES OF ESTABLISHING AND DEVELOPING PRODUCTION CAPACITIES IN THE FOOD INDUSTRY

2025-05-08T13:45:28+00:00

This paper analyses the impact of the INVESTALIM and DR 23 financing measures on the development of processing capacities in the Romanian food industry. These support measures aim to modernise and expand food processing lines, essential for increasing the quality and competitiveness of local products. In a sector marked by high requirements regarding processing safety and efficiency, these financing programmes provide companies with resources to adopt modern technologies, such as process automation, resource consumption optimisation and production loss reduction. The paper details the stages of food processing and the solutions supported by the INVESTALIM and DR 23 measures, with a focus on technological innovations and the implementation of sustainable practices. The market trends leading to the adaptation of processing capacities, as well as consumer demands for healthy and value-added food products, are analysed. The study demonstrates that investments in processing processes supported by these measures contribute to increasing the performance and competitiveness of the Romanian food industry.

RESEARCH ON INVESTMENTS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF GRAIN AND INDUSTRIAL CROP STORAGE CAPACITIES THROUGH NON-REIMBURSABLE FUNDS, IN ROMANIA

2025-09-05T12:44:26+00:00

This study evaluates the efficiency of public investments directed toward the development of cereal and industrial crop storage capacities in Romania under Sub-measure 4.2 of the National Rural Development Programme (2014–2020) and Directive DR-22 of the CAP Strategic Plan (2023–2027). The analysis covers the period 2015–2025 and is based on two performance indicators: (i) storage capacity relative to the area cultivated with cereals and industrial crops, and (ii) public investment per hectare of cultivated land. These indicators provide insights into both the adequacy of storage infrastructure and the intensity of non-reimbursable financial support, enabling regional and national comparisons over time. The results highlight a fluctuating but overall upward trend in investments. Initial allocations were modest in 2015 (€8.4 million), followed by substantial increases in 2016–2018, with a first peak in 2018 (€150.6 million). After a sharp decline in 2019 and the absence of allocations in 2020 and 2023, funding reached its highest level in 2024 (€286.8 million). Regionally, the largest total investments were recorded in South-East and North-West, reflecting their strong agricultural potential, while the smallest allocations occurred in Bucharest-Ilfov.The cultivated area with cereals and industrial crops remained relatively stable, averaging 6.9 million hectares annually, with South-Muntenia and South-East together accounting for nearly half of the national total. Authorized storage capacity increased from 22.6 million tons in 2015 to 32.3 million tons in 2024, with the highest values concentrated in South-East, South-Muntenia, and West. The storage capacity per hectare rose nationally from 3.3 t/ha in 2015 to 4.7 t/ha in 2024 (+43%), though marked regional disparities persist. Public investment intensity followed a cyclical pattern, culminating in 2024 with a record €41.9/ha. Overall, findings confirm significant improvements in storage infrastructure but also underline uneven regional development and reliance on funding cycles.