Quantitative evaluation and Economic effects of Sumac fruit harvesting (Rhus coriaria L.) on Horand rural household income, East Azarbaijan

Sumac (Rhus coriaria L.) is a multi-purpose indicator species in Arasbaran region, especially in Horand County and a remarkable amount of its fruits is traditionally exploited every year. This research was focused on the quantitative evaluation of production and the economic importance of sumac in the household's economy of Aghboraz Village of Horand County. The data were collected in two parts, including the quantitative evaluation of fruit production via random-systematic sampling strategy and socio-economic analysis about harvesting, selling and processing of sumac via semi-open questionnaire. Based on the results, the average number of sumac stem per hectares was 3928 and its average yield was estimated 428.16 kg per ha. Sum and average of harvested sumac by rural household was 8455 kg and 422.75 kg, respectively. The average annual harvest value of households was 46500 thousand Rials. The average annual household income from raw and processed sumac was estimated 7740 and 46480 thousand Rials, respectively. The average share of household income from the sumac harvesting was 44% of total household income varied from 0.9% to 100% among different households. The average added value created by processing was 332500 Rials. According to the results, it can be concluded that sumac species can be effective in improving the economic situation of the villagers.