Mechanical harvesters designed for olive orchards are available varied types, from trunk shakers that vibrate the tree, inflicting the fruit to drop, to over-the-row harvesters that straddle the bushes and gather olives with rotating brushes or combs. These units are employed to detach the fruit from the branches effectively, usually gathering it onto nets or conveyors for subsequent processing. A typical instance is a towed harvester that connects to a tractor and makes use of vibrating arms to take away olives from the tree.
Trendy orchard administration advantages considerably from mechanization. Automated harvesting presents substantial benefits, together with lowered labor prices and elevated harvest pace, notably essential throughout optimum ripening durations. Traditionally, olive harvesting relied closely on handbook labor, a time-consuming and costly course of. The event and adoption of mechanized options have revolutionized the business, enabling larger yields and improved profitability. These developments contribute to a extra sustainable and economically viable olive oil manufacturing chain.
The next sections will delve deeper into particular sorts of harvesting gear, their working ideas, and their influence on olive oil high quality. Additional exploration will cowl the financial issues of adopting these applied sciences and their function in shaping the way forward for olive cultivation.
1. Sorts
Categorizing olive harvesting gear by sort clarifies the varied approaches to mechanized olive harvesting and their suitability for various orchard situations. The first distinction lies between trunk shakers and over-the-row harvesters. Trunk shakers clamp onto the tree trunk and vibrate it vigorously, inflicting the olives to detach and fall onto assortment nets unfold beneath the cover. This methodology is usually appropriate for bigger bushes and conventional, much less intensive orchard layouts. Over-the-row harvesters, then again, straddle the tree rows and use rotating brushes or combs to take away the fruit. These machines are sometimes most well-liked for high-density, hedgerow-style orchards and might obtain larger harvesting speeds. Different specialised sorts embody cover shakers which vibrate the tree’s branches and are appropriate for particular olive varieties or tree coaching techniques, and self-propelled harvesters providing elevated maneuverability and effectivity in difficult terrains.
Selecting the proper harvester sort is essential for optimizing harvest effectivity and minimizing tree harm. For instance, utilizing a trunk shaker in a high-density orchard may be inefficient and probably harm bushes because of restricted maneuverability. Conversely, an over-the-row harvester may not be appropriate for very massive, previous bushes with thick trunks. Understanding the restrictions and benefits of every sort allows knowledgeable decision-making based mostly on orchard traits, olive selection, and desired harvest outcomes. Particular orchard elements, similar to tree spacing, terrain, and the anticipated yield, affect the suitability of every harvester sort. The selection usually includes balancing capital expenditure, operational effectivity, and potential influence on olive high quality and tree well being.
The number of an applicable olive harvester sort represents a big funding determination with long-term implications for orchard productiveness and profitability. Analyzing the varied sorts of harvesting gear obtainable, contemplating their operational ideas, and matching them to particular orchard traits are vital steps in maximizing the advantages of mechanized olive harvesting. This knowledgeable method helps the sustainable intensification of olive manufacturing, enabling elevated yields whereas preserving orchard well being and olive oil high quality.
2. Effectivity
Harvesting effectivity represents a vital issue within the financial viability of olive manufacturing. Mechanization presents vital potential for elevated effectivity in comparison with conventional handbook strategies. Evaluating the effectivity of olive tree harvest machines requires contemplating a number of key aspects, together with harvest price, operational prices, and potential yield losses.
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Harvest Price
Harvest price, measured as the amount of olives harvested per unit of time (e.g., kilograms per hour or tons per day), straight impacts labor necessities and general harvest period. Machines typically obtain considerably larger harvest charges than handbook labor, notably in well-structured orchards. For instance, an over-the-row harvester can harvest a number of tons of olives per hour, exceeding the capability of a big group of hand-pickers. This elevated harvest price interprets to lowered labor prices and permits for well timed harvest completion, particularly necessary for preserving olive high quality throughout peak season.
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Operational Prices
Whereas mechanized harvesting presents larger harvest charges, it incurs operational prices that should be factored into the general effectivity evaluation. These prices embody gas consumption, upkeep, and potential repairs. Gasoline effectivity varies considerably between machine sorts and sizes. Upkeep prices, together with common servicing and substitute elements, can even influence long-term profitability. Minimizing operational prices via correct machine choice, common upkeep, and optimized operational practices is essential for maximizing the financial advantages of mechanized harvesting.
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Yield Loss
Whereas aiming for optimum harvest pace, minimizing yield loss is important. Mechanical harvesters, whereas environment friendly, could cause some fruit harm or depart some olives unharvested. Elements influencing yield loss embody machine sort, tree selection, and fruit maturity. For instance, over-the-row harvesters would possibly trigger extra harm to delicate olive varieties in comparison with trunk shakers. Optimizing machine settings and adapting harvesting methods to particular orchard situations may help reduce yield loss and maximize harvestable yield.
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Labor Necessities
Although usually neglected as a part of effectivity, the discount in labor necessities considerably impacts general harvesting effectivity. Mechanical harvesting dramatically reduces the necessity for handbook labor, which historically represents a considerable portion of olive manufacturing prices. This discount not solely lowers direct labor bills but additionally addresses the rising challenges of labor availability and rising wages. The lowered reliance on handbook labor frees up sources for different orchard administration duties and enhances general operational effectivity.
Assessing the effectivity of olive tree harvest machines requires a holistic method, contemplating harvest price alongside operational prices and potential yield losses. Balancing these elements ensures optimized harvesting practices that maximize profitability whereas preserving olive high quality and long-term orchard well being. The number of a particular machine and its operational parameters should align with the distinctive traits of every orchard and the specified harvest outcomes. By understanding these interconnected elements, olive growers could make knowledgeable selections that contribute to the sustainable and environment friendly manufacturing of high-quality olive oil.
3. Value
Value issues are paramount when evaluating the feasibility of integrating mechanized harvesting into olive manufacturing. The monetary implications span preliminary funding, operational bills, and potential long-term financial savings. Acquisition prices for olive tree harvest machines differ considerably relying on the sort, measurement, and options. A fundamental trunk shaker represents a smaller preliminary funding in comparison with a classy over-the-row harvester with superior options similar to automated leveling and built-in assortment techniques. Financing choices and potential authorities subsidies can affect the general funding burden. Operational prices, together with gas, upkeep, and repairs, contribute considerably to the entire price of possession. These ongoing bills should be factored into the long-term price evaluation and balanced in opposition to potential financial savings in labor prices.
For instance, a large-scale olive producer contemplating an over-the-row harvester should weigh the preliminary funding of a number of hundred thousand {dollars} in opposition to the potential long-term financial savings achieved by considerably lowering the labor drive required throughout harvest. A smaller producer, nonetheless, would possibly discover a trunk shaker a extra economically viable choice because of its decrease acquisition price and lowered operational bills. The potential for elevated harvest effectivity and lowered reliance on seasonal labor can provide substantial long-term price advantages, offsetting the preliminary funding. Nevertheless, realizing these advantages requires cautious planning, together with applicable machine choice, optimized operational practices, and efficient upkeep methods. Surprising repairs and downtime can considerably influence profitability, highlighting the significance of preventative upkeep and entry to dependable technical help.
Cautious price evaluation is essential for knowledgeable decision-making concerning the adoption of mechanized olive harvesting. Balancing the preliminary funding, operational bills, and potential long-term financial savings gives a complete image of the monetary implications. This evaluation, coupled with an understanding of particular orchard traits and harvest necessities, allows producers to make strategic investments that improve productiveness and contribute to the long-term sustainability of their operations. Understanding the varied price elements related to olive tree harvest machines empowers producers to make data-driven selections that align with their particular person monetary contexts and operational targets. This knowledgeable method is important for maximizing the financial advantages of mechanized harvesting whereas mitigating potential monetary dangers.
4. Upkeep
Sustaining olive tree harvest machines is essential for guaranteeing optimum efficiency, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. A complete upkeep program addresses each preventive and reactive upkeep wants, minimizing downtime and maximizing the return on funding. Preventive upkeep, carried out often in accordance with a schedule, mitigates the chance of main breakdowns. This consists of routine inspections, lubrication, cleansing, and substitute of wear-prone elements similar to belts, chains, and bearings. For instance, often inspecting and cleansing the harvesting heads of an over-the-row harvester prevents particles buildup, which might impede efficiency and probably harm the machine. Equally, lubricating the shifting elements of a trunk shaker ensures clean operation and reduces put on and tear. Reactive upkeep, then again, addresses sudden breakdowns and malfunctions. This requires available spare elements, expert technicians, and environment friendly restore processes. A delayed harvest because of a machine breakdown can result in vital monetary losses, particularly in the course of the peak season. As an illustration, a malfunctioning hydraulic system on a trunk shaker can halt your complete harvesting operation, impacting the well timed harvest of perishable olives.
Efficient upkeep practices contribute on to the general effectivity and profitability of mechanized olive harvesting. Nicely-maintained machines function reliably, maximizing harvest charges and minimizing yield loss because of breakdowns. Moreover, common upkeep extends the lifespan of the gear, lowering the necessity for frequent replacements and maximizing the return on the preliminary funding. For instance, a well-maintained over-the-row harvester can function effectively for a lot of seasons, considerably offsetting its preliminary buy price. Conversely, neglecting common upkeep can result in untimely put on and tear, pricey repairs, and lowered harvesting effectivity. In some instances, neglecting important upkeep can result in catastrophic failures requiring full machine substitute. Correct upkeep additionally enhances security by minimizing the chance of accidents brought on by malfunctioning gear. As an illustration, often inspecting and sustaining the security options of a harvester, similar to emergency stops and protecting guards, ensures a protected working setting for operators.
A sturdy upkeep program is an integral a part of profitable mechanized olive harvesting. It optimizes machine efficiency, longevity, and security, contributing considerably to the general effectivity and profitability of olive manufacturing. A proactive method to upkeep minimizes pricey downtime and maximizes the return on funding, guaranteeing the sustainable and environment friendly operation of olive tree harvest machines. This proactive method not solely reduces restore prices and extends the machine’s lifespan but additionally ensures the well timed and environment friendly harvest of the olive crop, optimizing yield and preserving olive high quality.
5. Olive High quality
Sustaining olive high quality throughout harvest is paramount for producing high-grade olive oil. The tactic of harvest considerably influences the ultimate product’s high quality attributes. Mechanical harvesting, whereas providing effectivity benefits, presents particular challenges and alternatives associated to preserving olive high quality. Understanding the influence of harvest methods on elements like bruising, oxidation, and cleanliness is essential for optimizing each harvest effectivity and oil high quality.
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Bruising and Harm
Mechanical harvesting, notably with strategies involving shaking or combing, could cause bruising and harm to the fruit. Bruised olives are extra prone to enzymatic degradation, resulting in elevated free fatty acidity and lowered oil high quality. Minimizing bruising requires cautious number of harvesting gear and parameters. As an illustration, adjusting the frequency and amplitude of vibration in trunk shakers can scale back fruit harm. Equally, choosing applicable brush or comb configurations in over-the-row harvesters minimizes bruising throughout fruit removing.
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Oxidation and Delay
Publicity to air and delays between harvesting and processing can provoke oxidation in harvested olives. Oxidation degrades oil high quality, resulting in off-flavors and lowered shelf life. Environment friendly harvesting practices, minimizing the time between harvest and processing, are essential for mitigating oxidative harm. Fast transport and processing of harvested olives reduce publicity to air and protect oil high quality. For instance, utilizing harvesting machines geared up with built-in assortment techniques can streamline the harvest course of and scale back delays.
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Cleanliness and Particles
Mechanical harvesters can inadvertently gather leaves, twigs, and different particles together with the olives. These contaminants can introduce undesirable flavors and enhance the chance of microbial contamination throughout processing. Guaranteeing cleanliness throughout harvest necessitates methods for minimizing particles assortment and efficient cleansing of harvested olives previous to processing. For instance, correct pruning and orchard administration practices can scale back the quantity of particles current throughout harvest. Moreover, some harvesters incorporate cleansing mechanisms, similar to air blowers or sorting techniques, to take away contaminants in the course of the harvesting course of.
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Harvest Timing and Maturity
The timing of harvest, influenced by fruit maturity, performs a vital function in olive oil high quality. Mechanical harvesting permits for well timed harvest throughout massive orchard areas, guaranteeing optimum fruit maturity for desired oil traits. Harvesting on the preferrred maturity stage maximizes oil yield and high quality attributes like taste and aroma. Mechanical harvesting’s effectivity allows growers to reply shortly to altering climate situations and harvest the fruit on the optimum maturity stage, which might differ relying on the specified oil profile.
The interaction between olive high quality and harvesting methods is advanced and requires cautious consideration. Whereas mechanical harvesting presents vital effectivity advantages, optimizing machine parameters and post-harvest dealing with procedures is essential for preserving olive high quality and producing high-grade olive oil. The number of applicable harvesting gear and its operation ought to align with particular high quality targets, contributing to the manufacturing of superior olive oil whereas maximizing harvest effectivity. Finally, balancing effectivity and high quality is paramount for the financial and reputational success of olive oil producers.
6. Tree Harm
Mechanical olive harvesting, whereas providing substantial effectivity features, presents inherent dangers of tree harm. This harm can vary from minor bark abrasions and limb breakage to extra extreme structural harm affecting long-term tree well being and productiveness. Understanding the causes and penalties of tree harm related to harvesting equipment is important for mitigating these dangers and guaranteeing sustainable orchard administration.
A major explanation for tree harm stems from the mechanical forces exerted on the bushes throughout harvest. Trunk shakers, as an illustration, apply vibrational forces that may stress the trunk and department junctions. Over-the-row harvesters, with their rotating brushes and combs, can scrape bark and break smaller branches. The severity of harm usually correlates with machine settings, tree structure, and operator talent. Extreme vibration depth or improper machine positioning can exacerbate harm. Equally, bushes with weak department attachments or pre-existing structural weaknesses are extra prone to break throughout mechanical harvesting. As an illustration, making use of extreme drive with a trunk shaker on a younger tree with a comparatively skinny trunk can result in bark stripping and potential long-term progress deformities. In mature bushes with brittle branches, aggressive combing motion from an over-the-row harvester could cause extreme limb breakage, lowering future yields.
The results of tree harm prolong past fast yield discount. Wounds created throughout harvest present entry factors for pathogens and pests, rising the chance of illness and infestation. Repeated harm over a number of harvests can weaken tree construction, making them extra weak to environmental stresses similar to wind and drought. This cumulative harm reduces orchard longevity and necessitates pricey tree substitute or rehabilitation measures. Minimizing tree harm requires a multi-faceted method encompassing cautious machine choice and operation, applicable tree coaching and pruning practices, and common orchard upkeep. Optimizing machine settings, similar to vibration frequency and amplitude for trunk shakers or brush pace and stress for over-the-row harvesters, can considerably scale back the chance of harm. Coaching bushes to develop robust department structure and pruning to take away weak or diseased limbs additional mitigates potential harm throughout mechanical harvesting. Common inspection and upkeep of harvesting gear additionally play a vital function in stopping harm brought on by malfunctioning elements or improper operation.
7. Labor Affect
The introduction of olive tree harvest machines has profoundly impacted labor dynamics inside the olive oil business. Analyzing this influence requires contemplating shifts in required expertise, employment ranges, seasonal labor dependency, and general labor prices. Understanding these adjustments is essential for assessing the socio-economic penalties of mechanized harvesting and growing methods for a sustainable and equitable transition.
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Shift in Required Expertise
Mechanization necessitates a shift from handbook harvesting expertise to technical experience in working and sustaining equipment. Employees proficient in working advanced harvesting gear, troubleshooting mechanical points, and performing routine upkeep are important. This transition requires funding in coaching and education schemes to equip the workforce with the required expertise. For instance, working an over-the-row harvester requires proficiency in hydraulic techniques, digital controls, and precision maneuvering, expertise distinct from conventional hand-picking methods.
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Employment Ranges and Seasonal Labor
Whereas lowering the general demand for handbook labor, mechanized harvesting creates new employment alternatives in machine operation, upkeep, and technical help. The shift impacts seasonal labor considerably, as machines scale back reliance on massive non permanent workforces throughout peak harvest durations. This may have advanced socio-economic penalties in areas closely depending on seasonal olive harvesting jobs. For instance, a big olive farm would possibly scale back its seasonal workforce by adopting mechanical harvesters, probably affecting native communities that depend on this earnings supply.
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Labor Value Discount
One of many major drivers of mechanization is the potential for substantial labor price discount. Machines provide larger harvesting charges and scale back the necessity for big labor forces, resulting in vital financial savings in wages, advantages, and related administrative prices. This price discount enhances the financial viability of olive manufacturing, particularly in areas with excessive labor prices. As an illustration, changing a group of hand-pickers with a single harvester operator can considerably scale back labor bills.
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Improved Working Circumstances
Mechanical harvesting can contribute to improved working situations by lowering the bodily calls for of handbook labor. Duties like carrying heavy baskets and dealing lengthy hours in difficult climate situations are minimized. This may improve employee security and well-being, notably in areas with excessive temperatures or troublesome terrain. For instance, utilizing a harvester eliminates the necessity for employees to climb ladders and manually decide olives from excessive branches, lowering the chance of falls and different associated accidents.
The labor influence of olive tree harvest machines presents each challenges and alternatives. Whereas lowering the necessity for conventional handbook labor, mechanization necessitates new talent units and creates totally different employment alternatives. Addressing the socio-economic implications of this transition via applicable coaching applications and help for affected communities is important. Finally, the profitable integration of mechanized harvesting requires cautious consideration of each financial and social elements to make sure a sustainable and equitable future for the olive oil business. Additional evaluation of regional labor markets and the event of focused help initiatives may help mitigate potential adverse impacts and maximize the advantages of this technological development.
Often Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the utilization of olive tree harvest machines, providing concise and informative responses to facilitate knowledgeable decision-making.
Query 1: What’s the typical return on funding for an olive tree harvest machine?
Return on funding varies considerably relying on elements like orchard measurement, labor prices, and machine utilization. Whereas a exact determine is troublesome to offer, price financial savings from lowered labor and elevated harvest effectivity usually offset the preliminary funding inside a couple of years, notably for bigger operations.
Query 2: How does mechanical harvesting have an effect on olive oil high quality in comparison with conventional hand-picking?
Whereas potential exists for elevated bruising with mechanical strategies, correct machine operation and well timed processing reduce this threat. Excessive-quality olive oil stays achievable with mechanical harvesting, usually exceeding the consistency attainable with large-scale hand-picking operations because of sooner processing occasions.
Query 3: What are the first upkeep necessities for these machines?
Common upkeep is important for optimum efficiency and longevity. This consists of routine inspections, lubrication, cleansing, and well timed substitute of wear-prone elements. Adhering to producer suggestions and establishing a preventative upkeep schedule are essential.
Query 4: Are there particular olive varieties higher suited to mechanical harvesting?
Whereas most varieties are amenable to mechanical harvesting, sure varieties with particular traits, similar to fruit detachment drive or department structure, is likely to be higher suited to explicit harvester sorts. Consulting with agricultural consultants and gear producers is advisable to find out optimum pairings.
Query 5: What are the important thing issues when selecting between a trunk shaker and an over-the-row harvester?
The choice hinges on elements like tree measurement and spacing, orchard structure, and desired harvest capability. Trunk shakers are sometimes most well-liked for bigger, extra extensively spaced bushes, whereas over-the-row harvesters are higher suited to high-density, hedgerow-style orchards.
Query 6: How does the terrain of an orchard affect the selection of harvesting gear?
Steep slopes or uneven terrain would possibly limit using sure harvester sorts. Self-propelled harvesters or specialised configurations is likely to be vital for difficult terrains, requiring cautious evaluation of orchard topography throughout machine choice.
Cautious consideration of those elements, coupled with session with business consultants, ensures knowledgeable selections aligned with particular orchard traits and operational targets.
The following sections will discover particular case research and sensible examples of profitable mechanized olive harvesting implementations.
Suggestions for Optimizing Mechanized Olive Harvesting
Efficient utilization of harvesting gear requires cautious planning and execution. The next suggestions present sensible steerage for maximizing effectivity and minimizing potential drawbacks.
Tip 1: Match the harvester sort to orchard traits.
Orchard structure, tree measurement and spacing, and terrain considerably affect harvester suitability. Excessive-density orchards profit from over-the-row harvesters, whereas conventional orchards with bigger bushes is likely to be higher suited to trunk shakers. Terrain issues additionally dictate harvester alternative; difficult slopes would possibly require specialised gear.
Tip 2: Prioritize common upkeep.
Preventative upkeep, together with routine inspections, lubrication, and well timed part substitute, is important for minimizing downtime and maximizing gear lifespan. Set up a complete upkeep schedule and cling to producer suggestions.
Tip 3: Optimize machine settings for minimal tree harm.
Adjusting parameters like vibration frequency and amplitude for trunk shakers, or brush pace and stress for over-the-row harvesters, minimizes tree harm. Correct machine operation and cautious maneuvering are additionally essential for stopping bark abrasions and limb breakage.
Tip 4: Reduce the time between harvest and processing.
Fast transport and processing of harvested olives minimizes oxidation and preserves oil high quality. Contemplate incorporating logistical methods and gear, similar to on-site processing services or cell processing models, to streamline the post-harvest course of.
Tip 5: Implement methods for particles removing.
Correct pruning practices and using cleansing mechanisms throughout harvest, similar to air blowers or sorting techniques, reduce particles contamination and enhance oil high quality. Cleanliness throughout harvest and transport is important for stopping the introduction of undesirable flavors and microbial contaminants.
Tip 6: Put money into operator coaching.
Expert operators maximize harvesting effectivity and reduce tree harm. Complete coaching applications protecting machine operation, upkeep, and security procedures are essential for optimizing gear utilization and guaranteeing employee security.
Tip 7: Consider harvest effectivity and make changes.
Repeatedly monitor key efficiency indicators like harvest price, yield loss, and operational prices. Analyze this knowledge to establish areas for enchancment and modify harvesting practices accordingly. Steady analysis and optimization are essential for maximizing effectivity and profitability.
Tip 8: Contemplate the long-term influence on orchard well being.
Mechanical harvesting, whereas providing effectivity advantages, can influence long-term orchard well being. Minimizing tree harm and implementing sustainable orchard administration practices are essential for guaranteeing the continued productiveness and longevity of olive groves.
Adhering to those suggestions ensures environment friendly, sustainable, and high-quality olive harvesting, maximizing yields and contributing to the long-term success of olive oil manufacturing.
The concluding part will summarize key takeaways and provide last suggestions for implementing mechanized olive harvesting.
Conclusion
Olive tree harvest machines symbolize a big development in olive oil manufacturing, providing substantial features in effectivity and addressing labor challenges. Exploration of various machine sorts, from trunk shakers to over-the-row harvesters, reveals distinct operational ideas and suitability for various orchard traits. Cautious consideration of things like effectivity, price, upkeep necessities, influence on olive high quality, potential for tree harm, and labor implications is essential for profitable implementation. Optimizing machine choice, operation, and upkeep ensures maximized advantages whereas mitigating potential drawbacks. The transition to mechanized harvesting necessitates adaptation and knowledgeable decision-making, balancing financial benefits with sustainable orchard administration practices.
The way forward for olive cultivation hinges on steady innovation and adaptation. Embracing technological developments like mechanized harvesting, whereas prioritizing orchard well being and olive high quality, presents a pathway towards enhanced productiveness and sustainability. Strategic funding in applicable applied sciences, coupled with ongoing analysis and improvement, will form the trajectory of the olive oil business, guaranteeing its resilience and talent to satisfy evolving world calls for. The continuing evolution of harvesting applied sciences guarantees additional enhancements in effectivity, sustainability, and the standard of olive oil produced worldwide. Continued exploration and adoption of those applied sciences are important for the long-term viability and prosperity of the olive oil sector.
