Farmers put on alert
Published:Monday | July 1, 2024 | 12:09 AMEdmond Campbell/Senior Staff Reporter
President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) Lenworth Fulton is urging farmers across the country to start making preparations to cushion the effect of what could be the likely impact of Hurricane Beryl on Jamaica.
Forecasters have placed Beryl, now a major hurricane, on a trajectory that would pass south of Jamaica, but could still have a significant impact on the island.
Fulton advised farmers that they should start making plans to move livestock to higher ground from low-lying areas that have experienced flooding in the past.
He suggested that farmers who rear chickens should purchase tarpaulin or related material to tie around their poultry houses to prevent heavy winds from battering the livestock.
The JAS president noted that there are certain crops such as banana, plantain and yam that are vulnerable to hurricane force winds and there is very little that can be done to secure them.
However, he suggested that banana and plantain fruit that are nearing maturity should be cut before the likely impact of the hurricane.
Although yam plants are vulnerable, Fulton said that farmers can pull the stick from the ground and rest it on the surface to minimise damage to the plant.
In terms of crops such as vegetables and sweet potatoes, the JAS boss urged farmers to ensure that their head drains and lateral drains are cleared to allow water to drain away quickly.
Further, he said farmers should store fungicide and insecticide in their store rooms to use on crops that have been affected by pests and fungi diseases after the waters caused by heavy rains subside.
Inexperienced farmers
The JAS head said while experienced farmers are aware of the steps that should be taken in the event of a hurricane, there are young and inexperienced farmers who need guidance on how to alleviate significant damage, especially as it relates to livestock.
Fulton said the Ministry of Agriculture should put out information in both the print and electronic media to assist farmers.
In terms of insurance for crops, Fulton said not many local farmers are receptive to this idea, noting that there needs to be increased public education and a greater push on the part of the insurance providers.
“The lack of insurance is one of the reasons why in 2022 only $146 million went out as loans to our farmers, while we have 250,000 registered farmers,” he said.
Fulton noted that local farmers are contributing eight per cent to gross domestic product (GDP). He said when value-added products are taken into account, which is calculated under industry and commerce and not agriculture, that would push the contribution of the sector to 13 per cent.
At the same time, Opposition spokesman on agriculture, Dr Dayton Campbell, is also urging farmers to make preparations for the hurricane season.
“It is crucial to be prepared and take necessary precautions to safeguard lives, livestock, and properties during this period of potential extreme weather conditions,” said Campbell.
“This hurricane season is forecasted to bring increased rainfall and heightened risks of flooding. Due to the escalating impacts of climate change, we can anticipate more severe weather patterns than usual. Farmers must be vigilant and ready to face these challenges,” he added.
Campbell also provided tips for farmers as he advised them to refrain from attempting to cross flooded areas to rescue animals, as this can be extremely dangerous.
He is advising farmers to secure livestock feed and water storage containers in advance to sustain livestock during emergencies.
The Opposition spokesman is also encouraging farmers to stay informed about weather updates through radio and television to make timely decisions.
Further, Campbell is urging the government to establish a dedicated rescue team to assist livestock farmers in the event of emergencies.
He wants provisions such as feed, water storage containers, flashlights, and water boots to be made available to support farmers during crises.
Calls to Agriculture Minister Floyd Green yesterday for comment on the government’s plans and preparations for the sector went unanswered.