The Vermeer Terrain Leveler T855, the leading machine of its kind, is the first of three Croatia has purchased in the US. It was launched by Prime Minister Ivo Sanader. The other two levelers, which transform barren soil into soil suitable for olive groves, vineyards or orchards, are expected to be located in the Drnis area and in Istra. There are only three such machines in Europe so far.
Sanader said the "Karst Soil Improvement" project outlined the national guidelines of agricultural development and was part of the preparation of Croatia's agricultural capacities for accession to the European Union.
"The transformation of islands and the coast into green oases will provide an economic foundation for a better quality of living, economic growth, higher employment, and demographic revival, as part of the government's fundamental strategic commitments," said Sanader.
Agriculture Minister Petar Cobankovic said this project was of huge importance for Croatia's accession to the EU. He added the government had secured funds for transforming 10,000 square metres of uncultivated forest soil into arable land.