Final stage of preparations for Farmers’ Week

Final preparations are underway by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Department of Agriculture for Farmers’ Week 2011, which will be held in the Territory from February 4-11. This year’s theme is ‘Reduce Overseas Dependency through Farming and Technology.’

Chief Agricultural Officer, Mr. Bevin Brathwaite, in speaking to the Department of Information and Public Relations on the history of Farmers’ Week said, “Fishing and Farming have been traditional industries in the BVI. As part of that tradition, it was customary for farmers in particular to get together to compare their produce. As time evolved, government decided to formalize that setting, and Farmers’ Week was born.”

The Chief Agricultural Officer stressed that greater support is needed in the sector in order for local production to increase, thereby decreasing dependency on imported food.

“As a result of persons not getting involved in the industry, and to try to strike a balance to feed our local population, we have to import a number of our produce. If we intend to strike the right balance to reduce imported food, we need to introduce and continue to introduce technology into farming in the BVI. We continue to encourage people to get involved in the industry and our farmers,” the Chief Agricultural Officer said.

The activities for the opening weekend will be held on the grounds of the Department of Agriculture at Paraquita Bay, from February 4 - 6.

On Friday, February 4, Minister for Natural Resources and Labour Honourable Omar W. Hodge will declare the week open during which time he will present the National Agriculture Awards, including the top of honour of Champion Farmer of the Year.

The field judging competitions for both the crop and livestock divisions came to an end on January 28.

Agricultural exhibitions will then be held on the sister islands of Anegada, Jost Van Dyke and Virgin Gorda on February 7, 8 and 10, respectively. The week’s activities conclude with a grand food fair at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on Friday, February 11 from 10 a.m.

The public is encouraged to support the week of activities as a sign of support to local farmers and the agricultural industry in the territory. The Department of Agriculture and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour will work continue to work collaboratively on the sustainable development of the agricultural industry.

Farmers’ Week is held annually in support of local farmers and aims to heighten public awareness of the importance of agriculture to the Territory.