The Agriculturalist - August Denbish Show issue 2012

New Chairmen, Directors for MOA

VOL. 23 NO. 9 • AUGUST 2012

FREE COPY

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By Patrick Maitland Editor -The Agriculturalist

ome twelve chairmen and over 100 directors were recently appointed by Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke to serve on the boards of a number of statuary organisations and companies under the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Derrick Heaven and Richard Jones were reappointed as chairman for the Sugar Industry Authority and the Coconut Industry Board, respectively. Heaven is also the new chairman for the board of management of the College of agriculture, Science and Education (CASE).

Two former politicians, Delano Franklyn and Donna Scott-Mottley and government senator and JAS president Norman Grant were among the appointees.

Veteran public servant and former executive chairman of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), Garnet Brown has been contracted to merge Cocoa, Coffee and the Export Division into a single regulatory entity.

However, the fate of the Cocoa Industry Board Restructuring Committee under the chairmanship of former member of parliament, Sam Lawrence is know known.

DERRICK HEAVEN Sugar Industry Authority

DELANO FRANKLYN Coffee Industry Board Sugar Industry Authority

National Irrigation Commission

HOPETON FRAZER

RICHARD JONES Coconut Industry Board

DONNA SCOTT-MOTTLEY Sugar Company of Jamaica

NORMAN GRANT Jamaica 4 H Clubs

GARNET BROWN Head, Transformation of Commodity Boards

ALVERSTON BAILEY Pesticides Control Authority

DENZIL WILLIAMS Rural Agricultural Development Authority

DENNIS HICKEY Agro-Investment Corporation

JAMES RAWLE Cocoa Industry Board

GEORGE GRANT Fisheries Advisory Board

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Denbigh Feature Pages 9-15

EDITORIAL: Merging will not ‘fix the problems’ of the Boards -Page 3-

JAMAICA 4H CLUBS: Meet Our Boy & Girl of the Year -Page 15Growing Turmeric for Profit -Page 26Six Ways to Prevent AIDS -Page 30-

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EDITORIAL PAGE

AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 3

Merging will not ‘fix the problems’ of the Boards

fter some ten years in the making, the Ministry of Agriculture is finalizing plans for the merger of the coffee, cocoa and the Ministry’s Export Division.

The idea of merging these commodity boards started some time in the 1990s with Minister Roger Clarke and Aaron Parke as the permanent secretary.

The former Agriculture Minister Chris Tufton supported the idea of the merger and commissioned consulting firm, Focal Point to develop a business plan for the implementation of a new entity.

It was however, not surprising to us that reappointed Minister Clarke recently announced the appointment of Dr Garnet Brown to put “forward proposals on the organizational structure, redundancies, and legislative amendments for the establishment of the new entity.”

Clarke said having consolidated the regulatory functions of these three entities; the Ministry intends to package all their commercial assets with a view towards divestment.

Our colonial leaders established several commodity boards including coconut, coffee, banana, cocoa as the government

regulatory and marketing agents. At the time, only government could export and import those commodities and their byproducts.

However, with the government adopting deregulation and trade liberalization policies, it was forced to give up direct control of the commodities and allowed private producers to take more control of their produce.

These changes came as a result of World Bank and International Monetary Fund conditions for loans and other budgetary support.

During the past twenty years most of our agricultural commodities including coffee, cocoa, banana, sugar cane, coconut and livestock recorded significant decline in overall production.

The commodity boards have been cited as the main reasons for the poor production output. Several reports and farmers have also charged the directors and management of the boards with gross mismanagement and misappropriation of the resources.

As part of the solutions to “fix the problems and to better serve the farmers,” the government (JLP/PNP) agreed with the

Focal Point by

PATRICK MAITLAND

Publisher -The Agriculturalist editor@theagriculturalist.com

consultants that a “merger” would be the best option.

While there could be savings from a reduction in staff including accounting operations, it may be more challenging to manage the “bigger entity” (Coffee, Cocoa, Export Division) with competing and conflicting variables.

We are suggesting that the merging of the management and assets of those commodity boards will not solve the problems.

The boards should be reorganized with limited government control and increased focus on the stakeholders–farmers/producers.

While the Coconut Industry Board was excluded from the proposed merger, it also faces challenges of management, but the Board continues to be the most successful commodity board. The Board is more “stakeholder-driven” and it enjoys a handsome fee from the importers of coconut byproducts as well as investment returns from Seprod and other companies.

The government should therefore reconsider its decision to merge the Coffee, Cocoa, Export Division and consider a more comprehensive approach to fix the problems of our commodity boards.

The opinions expressed in this newspaper, except for the above, do not necessarily reflect the views of The Agriculturalist and its publishers. Please send your comments or suggestions to editor@theagriculturalist.com. Responses should be no longer than 400 words. Not all articles will be published.

OPINIONS

A single commodity board is not the answer!

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he Cocoa Board was morphed out of the Cocoa Marketing Company in 1957 to harmonise the fermenting/ processing of cocoa to eliminate the variation in flavour and quality found in the many "on farm" fermentaries around the island, and that was giving Jamaican cocoa an exceedingly poor name.

The results from these centralised fermentaries has established Jamaica as a purveyor of fine and flavoured cocoa beans, in the top eight around the world. Why reverse this positive trend and go back to a commodity marketing corporation?

Richmond and Morgan's Valley fermentaries were built from cash reserves from cocoa bean sales - the Government has never invested in any aspect of the Cocoa Industry Board (CIB), it has self-financed all its recurrent and capital expenditure (reference CIB annual reports).

When the CIB established thousands of acres of cocoa farms through the Cocoa Development Company, it did so out of cocoa beans sales.

When it accrued losses in millions of dollars, it recovered them out of cocoa beans sales.

When it sold these farms and assets, the proceeds were returned to the unappropriated profit and loss account and the minister of agriculture paid them out in the annual cocoa bonus to farmers.

Why does the Government and FocalPoint Consulting feel they now have the right to sell what is not theirs?

The legislation that gave the Government

Food aid too limited to support national food security

By E. Clay By Edward Clay, Senior Research Associate, Overseas Development Institute (ODI) here is an ongoing discussion in the WTO and elsewhere on whether food aid is ‘part of the solution’ or ‘part of the problem’ when it comes to supporting national food security.

A study has been published by ICTSD arguing that food aid is now too limited in scale to have much impact either way. Global food aid levels declined from 7.9 to 5.8 million tonnes between 2005 and 2007 and, despite a small rise in 2008, have since continued to decline.

According to the report, the current scale of food aid ‘makes it an inadequate tool for supporting national food security, simultaneously, except in a few smaller economies.’ Current food aid levels are ‘barely adequate to respond to idiosyncratic risks in small and mediumsized economies that are uncorrelated with events elsewhere’.

This is a far cry, the study notes, from the 1994 Marrakesh Decision at the end of the GATT Uruguay Round which saw food aid as part of a new rules-based system for agricultural trade that could protect the interests of poor, net food-importing countries following liberalisation. The ICTSD study has been produced to inform debate as a number of key deadlines approach.

As some of the deadlines in the Doha Round – on which negotiations have long been stalled – approach rapidly, there is discussion in Geneva on the role that food aid could play in moving the agricultural negotiations forward.

The deadlines include the target date of 2013 for developed country Members of the WTO to eliminate agricultural export subsidies.

T By Roger Turner, farmer tullochestates@cwjamaica.com

the power to process and market cocoa should be amended to allow the farmers to manage and run their fermentaries.

The Banana Export Company was established as a Section 20 not-foprofit company, with membership by participation (one ton of bananas equals one vote) that ran very efficiently for more than 20 years.

Establish a cocoa company in the same manner to run the assets of the CIB and give rural Jamaica a fighting chance.Do not sell it to an equity shark who will divert bean sale monies to return on investment, dividends, debt repayment, etc, and forever ensnare the cocoa farmer to servitude.

Cocoa beans built the CIB; it belongs to the farmers.

The current Food Aid Convention will expire in June 2012. The International Grains Council has been hosting negotiations on a successor convention between donors that account for four-fifths of international food aid. This might increase minimum commitments, but as the negotiations have been held ‘entirely in private’ there is not yet any guidance of what a new regime might offer.

If food aid were increased substantially, the report confirms that it would to be provided within a framework of rules that avoid trade distortions.

Some WTO Members, notably the Cairns Group, are concerned that rich countries will use food aid as a way to circumvent new disciplines on export subsidies and disrupt their commercial trade.

Publisher & Editor: Patrick Maitland

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Brown to transform Commodity Boards Barbados V Bans Poultry from Mexico

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arbados has announced a ban on the importation of live birds, poultry and poultry products from Mexico with immediate effect.

A government statement says the action is being taken following a major outbreak of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), commonly referred to as bird flu, in the Western state of Jalisco, Mexico.

Senior Veterinary Officer, Dr. Mark Trotman is also advising that until the full extent of the outbreak becomes known, Barbados' Veterinary Services will consider the entire country of Mexico affected with HPAI. In addition, border control officials, including Veterinary and Plant Quarantine, Port Health and Customs, will be notified to exercise vigilance on shipments of products originating from Mexico.

The statement added that key stakeholders will also be sensitised through public awareness bulletins and meetings as deemed necessary, while emergency response plans will be reviewed and updated as needed.

NEWS

eteran public servant with expertise in organizational development and mergers, Garnet Brown, has been contracted to rationalize several commodity boards that fall under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

The decision follows the recommendations of a study, commissioned by the Ministry and approved by the Cabinet earlier this year.

The rationalization will see three (3) commodity entities – Cocoa, Coffee, and the Export Division, being merged into a single regulatory entity and their commercial functions divested. Dr. Brown is to lead the process of transformation, from legislation, organization structure, and staffing with the overriding objective to ensure optimal efficiency and effectiveness in the management of the commodities interest.

GArnEt Brown In May 2009, the Government of Jamaica decided to undertake a study on the rationalization of these commodity boards

against the background of the lack of growth in the production and productivity of a number of traditional commodities, due largely to inappropriate marketing arrangements.

As such, the Ministry commissioned a study to examine specific crops which are managed under the auspices of commodity boards.

Based on the recommendations of the consulting firm which conducted the study, the Cabinet decided that the institutional arrangements and functions be rationalized.

Dr. Brown has served some 40 years in the public service, with various scientific, managerial and leadership capacities, including the development of numerous public sector entities.

Agriculture Ministry Pushing for Sugar Expansion

The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries is pushing to expand the local sugar industry and bring back some 20,000 hectares of land into sugar cane production, over the next four years.

Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Roger Clarke, made the announcement at a seminar on: ‘Revolutionising the Sugar Cane Industry through Drip Irrigation’, held in Kendal, Manchester, on July 26.

The seminar was hosted by Jamaica Drip Irrigation.

Clarke told the large group of farmers and other industry personnel that, “we are about 12,000 (hectares) now and we need to lift that. We have to put back all those idle lands into production."

He also noted that farmers need to lift the tonnes per acre yield from the low of 50 and 54 tonnes. “At that rate, we are not competitive and especially in the irrigated areas, because the cost of irrigation water is almost prohibitive regardless of what the government does,” said the Minister.

Clarke explained that the Sugar Transformation Unit (STU) of his Ministry has put in place $1.2 billion for the cane expansion programme.

This has come from the Cane Expansion Fund, which is to provide additional funding to support increased cane production to a minimum of 3.5 million tonnes and to enhance productivity and efficiency in the sugar cane subsector.

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NEW JAS EXECUTIVES: Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke (r) poses with the newly elected executives of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) (l-r) Ralston Johnson, 1st vice-president; Donald Berry, 2nd vice-president; Senator Norman Grant, president; and immediate past-president and Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Glendon Harris. The elections were held at the Society’s AGM recently in May Pen, Clarendon.

Grant Returns as JAS President

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By Douglas McIntosh, JIS Reporter

oard member of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), Senator Norman Grant, has returned to the helm of the organisation.

Senator Grant regained the presidency via acclamation, having been the sole nominee for the position in the executive elections held Wednesday (July 11), during the JAS’ annual general meeting at the Denbigh showground in May Pen, Clarendon.

He previously served two three-year terms as president between 2003 and 2009 before being succeeded by current Mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Glendon Harris, under whom he served as 1st vice-president between 2009 and 2012. Councillor Harris did not seek re-election on Wednesday, declining nomination for election to that position and either of the two vice-president posts.

The position of 2nd vicepresident was also filled via acclamation, consequent on Board member, Ralston Johnson, being the sole nominee. He succeeds at-

torney-at-law and Queen’s Counsel, Glen Cruickshank.

In the only post contested, JAS Board member and Portland parish representative, Donald Berry, polled 191 votes to defeat colleague and All Island Cane Farmers’ Association President, Allan Rickards, who got 45.

In his acceptance speech, Senator Grant thanked the delegates for their confidence reposed in him. “I take this mandate, this covenant, this charge that you have given this team today very, very seriously,” he declared.

The new president also thanked his predecessor, Glendon Harris, “for his leadership over the last three years”, and wished him well in his new position as Montego Bay’s Mayor.

“I’d like to assure you that I will call on your office, as president of the JAS, for us to sit down and see how we can work together with the Parish Council in St. James, and other Parish Councils, to see to the development and transformation of our rural districts,” Senator Grant said.

NEWS

AUGUSTL 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 5

Ministry Working to Boost Training in Agricultural Science

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he Ministries of Agriculture and Fisheries and Education are collaborating to enhance the application of agricultural science in the secondary school curriculum.

State Minister for Agriculture, Ian Hayles, in his contribution to the 2012/13 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on Wednesday (July 25), said initiatives will commence this year, when his Ministry moves to conclude arrangements to undertake transformation of the Sydney Pagon Agricultural School in St. Elizabeth, to form the core of a new School of Food and Agriculture.

Hayles said the Ministry would also redouble efforts to collaborate and facilitate closer linkages with the Ebony Park HEART Academy in Clarendon; Knockalva Agricultural School in Hanover; College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) in Portland; and Northern Caribbean University (NCU), to ensure the relevance of their programmes to agriculture, and facilitate a “seamless transition” for students from the secondary institutions into the tertiary, and into the local agricultural sector.

He pointed out that, within the context of globalisation, economic challenges, competitive international markets and increasingly higher food safety requirements, “the employment of under-skilled workers must be addressed”.

“The growth and development of our agricultural sector must be science-based, (and) technically-based, and this can only be assured if we have suitably attuned agricultural educational institutions,” Mr. Hayles underscored.

The State Minister also advised that the

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Ian Hayles State Minister for Agriculture

University of Technology (UTech), in partnership with the Ministry, will submit a joint project, titled: “Revitalization of the Agricultural Sector and Enhancement of Food Security in Jamaica through collaborative Human Resource Development and Capacity Building in Agricultural and Biological Engineering”, under the African, Caribbean and Pacific-European Union (ACP-EU) Cooperation Programnme.

The State Minister explained that targeted results of the project include: upgrading of the Bodles Agricultural Research Station’s facilities for the delivery of training in agricultural technologies and techniques; certification of graduates in agricultural and biological engineering and their subsequent employment in relevant positions in the sector; and effective collaboration among academia, government, international partners and the private sector.

“The Ministry (of Agriculture and Fisheries) is fully supportive of the project, and we are expecting that the proposal will be favourably considered,” he stated.

Hutchinson Knocks JEEP Farm Programmes

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pposition spokesman on agriculture JC Hutchinson is alleging that the government‘s Jamaica Emergency Employment Programme (JEEP) is being used to promote agricultural projects during his sectoral debate in the House of Representatives recently.

“The JEEP-brand could introduce the stigma of political interference into the sector. There is a stigma associated with this heading which may lead to concerns in the agricultural sector," Hutchinson noted.

"Agriculture must be seen, envisaged and interpreted as a non-political organisation, with all segments of the sector operating as business enterprises without political flavour," he said.

Hutchinson noted that while the rural development programme in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries had been reduced by $79 million to $39 million, a $78-million programme bearing the JEEP label had been included in the ministry's budget involving programmes normally classified under rural development. He suggested that since the projects were rural development projects they should have been placed under that heading, instead of JEEP. "Programmes in agriculture must not be bastardised and denigrated or become sitgmatised. What's the rationale of taking all these programmes from rural development and 'jooking them up' under a non-agricultural entity?

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JC Hutchinson Opposition spokesman on agriculture

The Ministry of Agriculture says that projects under the JEEP agricultural programme will facilitate job creation, and that the funding, provided by the Petro Caribe Fund, will be utilised in several areas, including $14 million on producing fruit juices and liquid eggs for the school feeding programme; $17 million to expand the RADA Twickenham Industry to include a bammy factory and agri-marts to be operated by individuals; and the rest for reverification and registration of farmers, an urban farming initiative, community crop care experts, farm road maintenance and a nursery programme.

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AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 7

ACHIEVEMENT

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Dr Vincent F. Wright- Dean, College of Natural and Applied Sciences

he Board of Governors of Northern Caribbean University recently announced the appointment of Dr Vincent F. Wright, Associate Professor, to the position of Dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences with effect March 1, 2012.

Dr Wright joined the faculty at Northern Caribbean University in 2003 and was appointed to the position of Chair of the Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences in 2006.

In this new position, Dr Wright will provide leadership of the College of Natural and Applied Sciences which comprises the Departments of Chemistry, Biology and Environmental Sciences; the Department of Computer and Information Sciences and the Department of Engineering, Physics and Mathematics as well as the Masters in Biology, Masters in Environmental Sciences and the PhD in Biology programmes.

A graduate of Jamaica School of Agriculture with a Diploma in agriculture, Dr Wright furthered his academic pursuits at Tuskegee University, where he earned the BSc in Animal and Poultry Science; and the Auburn University where he earned the MSc in Aquaculture. He earned the PhD in Zoology at the University of the West Indies and later an MBA from Nova South-eastern University. In addition, Dr Wright has had training in the following areas: Organizational Development and Business

Dr Vincent F. Wright

Processes; Healthy Life Style; Project Management, Bio-Hazard, Aquatic Ecology, Environmental Ecology, Fish Ration Formulation and Animal Health.

Dr Wright joined NCU with a wealth of experience in research, project analysis, administration, consulting and academia. He lectured part-time at the College of Agriculture, Science and Education ( CASE) and City College, USA; at the Ministry of Agriculture, Jamaica, he worked as an Animal Health Assistant in the Veterinary Division and then as a Research Officer in the Aquaculture Unit. His industry experience includes working at Seprod Limited as a technical manager, with responsibility for the formulation of fish feed for the Fresh Water Fishing Industry.

NEWS IN BRIEF

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Mavis Bank Coffee Factory makes final payment to farmers

Coffee farmers are to receive another pay out starting this week.

The Mavis Bank Coffee Factory will make final payment to Blue Mountain Coffee Farmers for the crop year 2011 to 2012, and for deliveries earlier this year. $15 million is to be disbursed to more than one thousand coffee farmers in St. Andrew, St. Thomas and Portland.

The total final price is just over three thousand dollars per box up from $2,400 paid during the 2010/2011 crop period

Sessing reelected Chairman of AIBGA

Grethel Sessing chairman of the All-Island Banana Growers' Association and other members of the executive committee were reelected unopposed at the Associations AGM held last week in Port Maria, St Mary.

Other directors included Vice-Chair Morris Smith; St James Director, Norvel Chambers and Richard Campbell and Talman Richards both directors representing the Portland region.

Egg farmers bemoan effect of GCT on industry

Egg farmers have suffered a setback in their quest to get the Finance Ministry to review the imposition of General Consumption Tax, GCT, on table eggs.

Agriculture Minister Roger Clarke who indicated a willingness to intervene on their behalf now says he needs additional information from the farmers before he approaches Finance Minister Dr. Peter Phillips.

Mr. Clarke said that he wants a detailed explanation from the farmers concerning their claim that GCT is having a negative impact on sales.

Earlier this month egg farmers reported that the crisis facing the industry since the introduction of GCT last month is worsening.

They said the tax had resulted in a 60 percent drop in egg sales.

The Jamaica Egg Farmers Association is recommending that the Government impose GCT on imported egg powder instead.

The National Irrigation Commission Limited The National Irrigation Commission Ltd. (N.I.C.) which is an Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries was established in 1986 and became operational in May 1987 with the following stipulated objectives: •To manage, operate, maintain and expand such existing and future irrigation schemes and systems as may now or hereafter be established by the government of Jamaica or by any Department or Agency.

•To fix and collect the rates or charges & to be paid for the use of such water.

“Irrigation, Making the Difference in Agriculture” National Irrigation Commission Limited 191 Old Hope Road Kingston 6, (876) 977-4022/6727/6624 • Fax (876) 927-2696 (e-mail) nic@cwjamaica.com (website) www.nicjamaica.com

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AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 9

Denbigh at 60: Celebrating Achievements in Agriculture

he Denbigh Agricultural Industrial and Food Show, the largest event in the English Speaking Caribbean and one of Jamaica’s most iconic events has a core audience of more than 80,000 patrons to the Showground every year.

As a symbol of our country’s cultural heritage, the show highlights and recognizes the quality and diversity of the agricultural sector and its related industries along with the latest innovations and leading technologically related products on display.

Under the theme: “Denbigh at 60: Celebrating Achievements in Agriculture,” the show will be held on August 4-6, at Denbighshowgrounds, May Pen, Clarendon.

The Jamaica 50 Secretariat has accredited the Denbigh Show as at Official Celebratory Event for Jamaica 50th Anniversary.

Denbigh 60 celebrations will include: • A very impressive entertainment package with lead artists • Recreating significant achievements and legacies through the progressive transitioning of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show (over 60 years)

DENBIGH SHOW 2012

The National Champion Farmer and National Farm Queen Competition will also celebrate milestones of 50 years of existence and this will be commemorated during the event.

Other traditional features to be highlighted this year include: Agricultural and Horticultural Exhibits, Young Champion Farmer Competition and the Youth in Agriculture Competition

Denbigh Celebratory Entertainment

Posing for the camera at the recent official launch of Denbigh 60 held at Hi-Pro Ace Supercenter in White Marl, St Catherine. In photo (l-r) Sharna-Gay Brown, National Farm Queen 2011; Christopher Levy, CEO, Jamaica Broilers Group; Dionne Clarke-Harris, Country Representative, CARDI and Hugh Johnson, CEO, Johnson Organic Fertilizer.

• Showcasing the synergies, innovation and development in the agriculture and related sector. (over 50 years) such as improvements in research and technology.

• Highlighting the contribution of the Jamaica Agricultural Society to rural life and the role played by the organization over the years.

• Placing emphasis on signage,

strategic layout and agriculturally related exhibits • Enhance the Village Concepts to include the following: Youth in Agriculture Village, Children’s Village, , Health Village and Farmers’ Market • Provide patron-friendly rest stops and ease of access to rest rooms.

Traditional Features of the Show

In promoting the best in agriculture, the Livestock exhibits will be enhanced this year with over four hundred (400) animals from the varied categories to include: cattle, small ruminants and pigs.

The Jamaica Hope and Jamaica Red Pole Cattle Breeders Associations will celebrate their 60th anniversary this year. The Jamaica Hope described as being greatest success story in dairy cattle breeding in this region has gained recognition worldwide. This achievement paved the way for the development of the Jamaica Red. In order to showcase this legacy: • A Special display is being planned to highlight the progression and activities within the Associations.

• There will also be a wall of fame to highlight the outstanding contributions of Thomas Phillip Lecky for his pioneering vision and scientific contribution in this area among others.

A Mobile Video-board will be made available on Sunday August 5, and Monday August 6, 2012 to allow patrons to see the Olympic races while enjoying the Denbigh Show.

Daily entertainment will feature the following: Denbigh Digicel Mini Olympics, Ace Egg Racing Competition, Delta Supply Company Chainsaw Competition, Maypole Dance, Tivoli Marching Band, Jonkanu Band, 4-H Youth in Agriculture Competition among others.

Nightly Entertainment

The National Farm Queen Coronation Show will celebrate its fifty years of showcasing women in agriculture at Denbigh this year, as a result the show is intended to highlight and feature past winners of the Competition and encourage its continuance.

The Denbigh Gospel Extravaganza sponsored by the Jamaica Broilers Group will showcase headline artists such as: DJ Nicholas, Goddy Goddy, Kevin Downswell, Kerron Ennis among others.

Digicel will sponsor the nightly entertainment on Monday August 6, 2012 and this will feature the Digicel Stars and Artists to include: Lovindeer, Roy Rayon, Eric Donaldson, Romain Virgo and Tifa.

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The promotion of agriculture!

he history of the Denbigh Showground goes back to the year 1937.

Before that time, the Clarendon Association of the JAS Branch Societies held parish shows in the May Pen Market area.

The late Hon. George Muirhead, Custos of Clarendon donated fifteen acres of his Denbigh estate to the Clarendon ABS for the promotion of agricultural shows.

The Denbigh Show however, officially opened its gates for its first show in 1952.

Since then contributions were made to acquire in excess of fifty five acres of land for the promotion of agriculture.

This show has grown to become the premier agricultural attraction in the English Speaking Caribbean with many distinguished heads of Governments, patrons, farmers and stakeholders supporting the event on an annual basis.

This year we celebrate the show under the theme ,”Grow what we Eat, Eat what we Grow,” with our sub-theme: Denbigh at 60: Celebrating Achievements in Agriculture The Jamaica 50 Secretariat has accredited the Denbigh Show as an official celebratory event for Jamaica 50th Anniversary and in-fact this will be the 60th staging of the show.

We celebrate with our exhibitors and thousand of patrons, including our partners from overseas and sponsors as well as farmers.

We will continue the transformation of the Jamaican economy through increased production, expansion of market for agricultural produce and continuing the battle against those who continue to steal from farmers.

Please enjoy the best of Denbigh 60 and Jamaica 50. God bless you all and bless Jamaica land we love.

Senator Norman Grant Chairman, Denbigh Show Committee JAS, President-Elect

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DENBIGH SHOW 2012

A valuable contribution to our nation!

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or the past sixty years the Denbigh Agricultural Show has successfully showcased agriculture as a significant sector in the social and economic development of Jamaica.

The sector’s resurgence was intensified with the launch of the “Grow What We Eat, Eat What We Grow” campaign which encourages support for local farmers and Jamaica’s agro-industry.

The resulting increased demand for Jamaican produce both locally and within the Jamaican Diaspora, as well as the greater diversity in what is being produced by our farmers, attest to the benefits of that campaign. Pursuit of these goals will enhance Jamaica’s food security, contribute to the economic development of the rural areas in particular and boost trade in both primary and processed agricultural products.

During this Golden Jubilee we celebrate the contribution of farmers who have remained committed to agriculture despite the challenges which the sector faces. I am particularly heartened that more young professionals are entering and investing in the agricultural industry.

As a nation, not only should we take pride in the quality of the products for which we are famous, but we should support the expansion of the sector. A successful agricultural sector will be a major fillip to Jamaica’s development.

The celebration of the 60th Anniversary of the Denbigh Agricultural Show is an opportune time to renew the clarion call to all Jamaicans to “Grow What We Eat, Eat What We Grow.”

I congratulate the Society for your valuable contribution to our nation and wish for you a highly successful show in this our Jubilee Year.

Patrick Allen Gonover General

Towards sustainable development

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griculture has been a driving force behind the development of some of the biggest economies in the world, and here in Jamaica, the sector continues to make a significant contribution although admittedly there still remains tremendous untapped potential.

This Administration regards the sector as essential in helping to combat the effects of the global economic crisis and to making a meaningful contribution to the on-going progress of our nation.

The 60th staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show, coinciding as it is with the 50th anniversary of the nation, is therefore an opportune time to put the growth and development of agriculture on a renewed path for success.

In this regard, I am heartened by the strides that have been made in adopting more modern cultivation, growing, harvesting and post- harvesting techniques in domestic food production. The sector has also made significant strides in producing food for our important tourism industry.

As Prime Minister, one of the areas of my focus is that of ensuring our industries use resources in a sustainable way, thus minimizing their depletion.

The agricultural sector which depends on land, wood and water must be a leader in the stewardship of our sustainable development.

Jamaica is blessed to have an organisation like the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) which for more than one hundred years has steered and promoted the interests of the sector and our farmers.

I give all my support and best wishes to the 60th Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show and the efforts to making this 2012 staging an exciting, fruitful and rewarding experience.

Portia Simpson Miller Prime Minister of Jamaica

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Let us focus on increasing local production

et me congratulate the Jamaica Agricultural Society for the staging of the 60th Anniversary of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show.

The Denbigh Show as it is commonly refered to, remains the premier exposition each year of the finest of Jamaica’s agricultural and livestock production. the exhibition with its wide range of presentations continues to be a most enjoyable learning experience for thousands of Jamaicans and visitors each year.

The theme “grow what we eat ,eat what we grow” was first used at last year’s show and continues to be an important message for all Jamaicans.

Agricultural production is an important contributor to jamaica's economy.

The records will show that whilst there have been increases in food production for both domestic and export consumption over the past three years, Jamaica continues to import a substantial quantity of the food it consumes.

The focus must therefore be to increase local consumption and create new export markets.

We must ensure that our farmers are encouraged to embrace new technologies and given access to financial support. This will certainly go a long way in our thrust to stimulate local agricultural development.

Andrew Holness Opposition Leader

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Forward and Backward Linkages

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enbigh is a name synonymous with Jamaica's agriculture and is the landmark where thousands of people gather annually paying homage to the resilience of our farmers.

It gives me great pride to usher in the staging of this year's Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial & Food Show, as the nation celebrates its jubilee, 50 glorious years of independence, as well as 60 years of the show, which is an institutionalized outlet to showcase the gamut of the agricultural industry.

The theme "Grow What We Eat, Eat What We Grow' has been used plenteous throughout the staging of this festival and is a critical appeal to galvanize our efforts to producing more to feed ourselves.

This message is particularly important and is in sync with our efforts for our farmers to increase production and productivity.

With the uncertainties and instability in the global marketplace and an increasing import bill, boosting local production is a must in creating the platform for our own food security and economic growth. We have arable lands and sufficient irrigation to start the process.

I crave the support of our young people to engage in agriculture, as you possess the skills and technology to moving the sector to another level. So let's get to work.

On behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, I extend hearty congratulations to the organizers of this year's show, the exhibitors, participants and farmers.

This year, let's make a concerted effort to support Jamaica by buying Jamaican foods and for our manufacturing and processing companies to add value to local production through forward and backward linkages.

Once again, let's grow what we eat, and eat what we grow in a big way!

Roger Clarke Minister of Agriculture & Fisheries

DAFFERTY CLARKE, 20; Miss. Portland Farm Queen; Office Assistant. Clarke operates her own backyard garden where she cultivates bananas, plantains, dasheens and tomatoes.

AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 11

Meet Our National Farm Queen Contestants DENBIGH SHOW 2012

SHAKERA WEST, 20; St. Ann Farm Queen. A student of College of Agriculture, Science & Education (CASE), pursuing a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture education. Ambision: agriculturalist or teacher.

CADEEN WHITMORE, 19; Hanover Farm Queen) A past Student of the Knockalva Agricultural School. Ambision: Teacher of Agriculture Science and Biology.

YACKEISHA KING, 21; Manchester Farm Queen) A student of the Knox Community College. She enjoys backyard gardening.

GETINELLA BONNER, 20; St. Mary Farm Queen; A student of CASE. Guided by the philosophy, “Doing your best in this moment puts you in the best places for the next moment”

MICHELLE BROWN, 25; St. Catherine Farm Queen; A graduate of CASE with an Associate’s degree in agriculture and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Science.

AMELIA LEVERIDGE, 19; Kingston & St. Andrew Farm Queen; Student of CASE pursuing an Associate of Science Degree in Agriculture Education.

She is actively involved in poultry and coffee farming.

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BRIDGET-DAWN DAWKINS, 18; Clarendon Farm Queen. A student of Knox Community College pursuing an Associate of Science Degree in Environmental Studies. She aspires to become an environmentalist.

CORYL MORGAN, 19; Miss St. Elizabeth Farm Queen. A past student of the Sydney Pagon Agricultural High School. Her career goal is to become a Veterinarian.

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Celebrating in grand style and splendor

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Glendon Harris President, Jamaica Agricultural Society his year is a quite significant milestone as we celebrate the 60th anniversary of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show and Jamaica 50th year of independence.

We will indeed be celebrating in grand style and splendor the progressive transition of our sector and simply the resilient nature of our people to showcase the best in agriculture despite many challenges.

Denbigh has been an institution of cultural expression and many Jamaicans have grown up enjoying the cultural exposition, which has given the Denbigh experience a unique flavor and flair.

It is our mandate for this year’s show to be the catalyst for business development, new marketing initiatives and provide practical knowledge within the agricultural and related sectors. The Show will therefore add immense value and wealth to the participants in an effort to maximize on the real Denbigh Experience.

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DENBIGH SHOW 2012 National Farm Queen Contestants

We have listened to the comments of our varied stakeholders and patrons and we have improved the presentations and features of the Show all in an effort to strengthen the Denbigh brand.

We are expecting a significant increase in the regional and international contingency to the Show this year.

It is indeed our goal for Denbigh Show 2012 to be one of the most memorable and impactful event in the history of promoting agriculture at its best.

With the compliments of

Mavis Bank Coffee Factory Limited Mavis Bank P.O. St Andrew, Jamaica .

Fax:1-876-977-8014 Toll Free: 1-877-522-9603/1-877-952-2586 Website :www.jablumonline.com

RENAE THORBOURNE, 20; Trelawny Farm Queen; student of CASE. Her philosophy is “Fear is a fairy tale just like goblins and ghosts.” She aspires to become one of Jamaica’s most influential stakeholders in agriculture.

TONIKA SWABY, 19; St. James Farm Queen. A graduate of Knockalva Agricultural School. Her career goal is to become a veterinarian or a Plant Pathologist.

SANDRENE BRYAN, 22; St. Thomas Farm Queen. A past student of the Davandre’s Training Institute. She believes that the youths should play their part in developing agriculture.

SHANNA-KAY SHAKES, 20; Westmoreland Farm Queen. A student of the Caribbean Maritime Institute, pursuing a Bachelors of Science degree in Logistics and Supply Chain Management.

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AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 13

14 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

DENBIGH SHOW 2012

Chairman of the Denbigh Planning Committee, Norman Grant, raps (c) with representatives of the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) Johnathan Lamey vice-president and acting-president Mary Nichols at the official launch of the show.

Special Treat for Denbigh Patrons

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By Judith A. Hunter, JIS PRO

amaicans will be in for a special treat with some additions to the usual fare of displays, exhibits and competitions at the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show this year.

The show will be staged from August 4 to August 6, 2012, on the Denbigh Showground in May Pen, Clarendon.

Addressing a Jamaica Information Service (JIS) ‘Think Tank’ on July 24, President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) and Chairman of the Denbigh Planning Committee, Senator Norman Grant, said he is “very excited” about the “new and different” features which attendees will have the pleasure of seeing during the three-day event.

One of the new features at the show this year will be the introduction of an ‘Organic Village’.

“This village will expose patrons to every aspect of a green village, basically from farm directly to a fork,” Senator Grant said.

Continuing, he said there will also be an ‘Olympic Village’, where patrons attending the show on August 5 and 6 will see the races while enjoying the Denbigh Show.

Traditional features, such as the livestock exhibits, farmers’ market, children’s village, the food village, youth in agriculture village and the health and wellness village will be enhanced as the JAS showcases the best in agriculture, despite the challenges.

In addition to the new and old attractions, Senator Grant in-

formed that Denbigh 2012 will have a huge Caribbean contingent in attendance. Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, The Bahamas, Bermuda and the Cayman Islands have already indicated that they will be in attendance.

The Caribbean 4-H Clubs will also participate in the Youth in Agriculture Village, through competitions and various exhibitions showcasing indigenous products.

Considered the premier agricultural show in Jamaica and the English speaking Caribbean, this year’s show is dubbed: ‘Denbigh 60: celebrating Achievements in Agriculture’, as it continues to promote the ‘Grow What We Eat…Eat What We Grow’ initiative The main objectives of the Denbigh Show are to promote the agricultural sector; display the best foods produced in Jamaica; and highlight the importance of agriculture to the export sector, to food security, to business development, and to nation building.

While highlighting the latest developments in agricultural technology, the Denbigh Show will also demonstrate linkages with other critical sectors of the economy, such as science and technology, research and development, tourism, entertainment and finance.

Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon Sir Patrick Allen is scheduled to attend Denbigh 2012 on Sunday, August 5.

Gates will open daily at 8:00 a.m. and admission is $600 for adults and $300 for children.

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State Minister for Agriculture Ian Hayles (4th l) and National Farm Queen, Sharna-gay Brown (9th l) rap with the Farm Queen Contestants--a major feature of the Denbigh Show.

Meet Our Boy and Girl of the Year

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JAMAICA 4H CLUBS

Protecting and caring for the environment

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ustin Thomas of Clarendon 4-H Clubs is Jamaica 4-H Clubs National Boy of the Year 2012. At age 12 he is proud to be one of the youngest clubbite to win the title.

He joined the 4-H club at seven years old and has since won numerous awards with the movement and in the academic field.

Justin is in the process of marketing a brand new product Vermi-compost Plant Teabag.

His message to youth and all Jamaican fellows: • Protect the environment and it will protect you.

• Reduce, Reuse and Recycle your Garbage Stop burning garbage, learn how to earn, turn your trash into cash.

• Start your own vermicompost and earn when you make rich plant food. It is chemical free and environmentally friendly. Just let the worms (Esenia Foepida) do the work.

• Sell the product and-vermi compost to farmers and sell the excess worms to fishermen or for starter projects.

He is also working on embarking on Circumposing, Potting of plants, Seed Bed Making in addition to Waste Management.

Justin is inspired by the work of late Dr. J. Paul Lecky who revolutionalized Cattle breed in Jamaica. He is passionate about his pets, rabbits, dogs and cats.

Justin is active in the United Brethren Church. He is also a member of the Jamaica Cadet Corps.

AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 15

Respected for intelligence and confidence

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Justin Thomas Jamaica 4-H Clubs Boy of the Year 2012

Justin is willing to do free demonstration for youth groups at schools, church or community clubs and supply starter vermi-compost kits to groups on request.

Since he won his title he has started over ten (10) small projects with individuals because he believes in Gal 6 v 9-10 And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

JOIN THE

4H CLUBBITES

“To Make the Best Better” call Tel: 927-4050-2

y name is Ackera Sherokie Gowie. I am seventeen years old and I attend the St. Mary High School. I am currently in grade twelve, where I study Law, Sociology, Environmental Science and Communication Studies in the faculty of humanities.

My ambition is to become an Environmental Lawyer and continue to assist with the development of my school, community and church.

I am a very polite, intelligent, responsible, respectful and confident young lady. As a youth I believe that involvement and volunteering is very crucial to the development of our Nation and my fellow youths.

As a result of this I am actively involved in my school, my community and my church. At school I am the Vice President of the 4-H club, Vice President of the Music club, Public Relations Officer for the Inter-School Christian Fellowship club, a Junior Leader and also a Prefect. In my community I am well respected for my intelligence and confidence.

I serve as the Youth Councilor for the Belfield Division in St.Mary, Public Relations Officer for the St.Mary Junior Leaders League and I am also the Project Care Manager for the roundabout in Highgate St.Mary. At church I serve as the Youth Choir Director, Associate Adventist Youth Leader, Women’s Ministries secretary, Sabbath School Secretary and I am also a Master Guide in training.

Ackera Sherokie Gowie Jamaica 4H Club Girl of the Year 2012

I was first introduced to the 4-H club when I was attending the Clonmel Primary and Junior High School in grade six and I have been a member until this present day.

Achieving the title of 4–H National Girl of The Year and Youth Ambassador was not an easy task.

Being 4-H National Girl of the Year and Youth Ambassador has been a real privilege and honour. Being a part of this miraculous movement, I have matured into a well rounded individual with the morals and goals 4-H has thought me which will always be with me. 4-H has thought me to be the best, to be a leader, to be anything that I want to be in life and always ‘To Make the Best Better’.

The Jamaica 4-H Clubs continues to support the Denbigh Agricultural & Industrial Show in its 60th year.

Don’t miss the Youth in Agriculture Village at the Denbigh Show as well as the Jamaica 4-H Clubs display and Jamaica 50 Village.

Village opens from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. between August 4 – 6.

JAMAICA 4-H CLUBS

“To Make the Best Better” Tel: 927-4050-2 • Fax: 978-3209 Email: jamaica.4h@cwjamaica.com

Website: www.jamaica4-hclubs.com Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/jamaica4-hclubs Also on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Ja4H

16 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

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AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 17

Farmers!! Are your crops being damaged by “army” worms, caterpillars and winged insects?

18 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

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Gives you another option to protect your crops with AVAUNT 30WG

•Avaunt is a more user friendly insecticide from E.I. DuPont which paralyzes the insects masking them unable to feed and eventually die of starvation.

•Avaunt is available in 37.5 grams packs which will treat approximately ½ ACRE of crops area.

•Formers can reap 3 days after application

•Always mix Avaunt first in volume of water to be sprayed, when using other products (e.g.) fungicide and fertilizer.

AGRI-CHEMICALS (JAMAICA) LIMITED 9 Marescaux Road Tel: 929-1040-1216 • Fax: 929-2141 Email: agrichem@flowja.com

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REGIONAL NEWS

Haitian farmers get US$15 mil from IDB

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US$15 million grant from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is geared toward supporting for government efforts to clear obstacles to higher farming productivity.

According to a statement from the IDB, the grant will assist Haiti in its efforts to modernize its agricultural policies and institutions to increase farm productivity and competitiveness. The IDB resources will be complemented with a US$7 million grant from the Haiti Reconstruction Fund.

The programme is the first in a series of three policy-based grants that will provide budget support for the Haitian government’s reforms to address several of the major constraints hampering its agricultural sector, which continues to play a dominant role in the country’s economy.

Farming provides the principal means of subsistence for over 1 million Haitian families and generates about half of the country’s jobs. Agricultural productivity in Haiti has dropped lower than in other countries in Latin America and the Caribbean, has declined over the past two decades, with significant

output drops in key crops such as bananas, coffee and rice.

Several donors, including the IDB, are providing financial and technical assistance for these reforms. Among the reforms Haiti will undertake is strengthening the Ministry of Agriculture (MARNDR) to carry out its planning, programming and budgeting functions, improve its capacity to manage, monitor and evaluate programs and increase the effectiveness of its services.

Under this program the ministry will create a team of public procurement specialists to boost its capacity to absorb and administer financial resources provided by the government’s treasury and donors.

This reform will enable the MARNDR to better execute programs under its management. At present, IDB grants are financing agriculture projects totaling more than $200 million in Haiti, including crop intensification, irrigation, rural value chains, farming technology transfers, land tenure clarification and watershed management.

B

AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 19

Barbados tackling Sugar Cane Pest

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados

arbadian authorities are pulling out all the stops to protect the island’s sugar industry following the return of the Moth Borer.

Head of the Ministry of Agriculture’s Entomology Section, Ian Gibbs, said there’s a dramatic increase of the sugar cane pest on the island.

Moth Borer In an effort to protect the sugar industry, a small laboratory to mass produce one of the pest’s parasitoids – the Cotesia flavipes or a tiny wasp has been established. Once the parasitoid is mass produced in large numbers, they will be released in fields which tested positive for having Moth Borer damage.

Barbadian sugar cane farmers are urged to work alongside the department and give officials their full co-operation as they try to bring the pest under control.

T

nrcS addresses pollution threats to coral reefs

he Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in the Caribbean Area has reaffirmed the national NRCS agreement to help lead efforts to address land-based pollution threats to coral reefs. Through the 2008 Farm Bill conservation programs, technical and financial assistance is provided to eligible agricultural producers and other non-federal land managers to address soil erosion and soil health, water quality and conservation, air quality, healthy plants, energy conservation, global warming issues, and upland and wetland wildlife habitat enhancement.

Farm Bill programs strive to assist agricultural producers to implement conservation measures that provide on-site and off-site benefits. The health of living coral reefs is dependent upon superior water quality and clarity allowing effective sunlight penetration. Introduction of nutrients and sediments have negative effects on the health and sustainability of living coral reef communities. Proper management of surface water along with other related natural resources from agricultural lands can assist in the protection of coral reefs in the Caribbean Area.

20 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

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Herbicide-resistant weeds: current challenges, new tools

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By Susan Jongeneel, University of Illinois

he ongoing evolution of herbicide-resistant weeds is a source of worry in Illinois, said University of Illinois professor of molecular weed science Patrick Tranel. He and research assistant Nick Hausman will be making a presentation on this topic during the 56th annual Agronomy Day at the U of I on August 16.

Recent examples in Illinois include biotypes of waterhemp (Amaranthus tuberculatus), Palmer amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri), and horseweed (also known as marestail or Conyza canadensis) resistant to glyphosate; a waterhemp biotype resistant to HPPD inhibitors; and waterhemp populations/biotypes that display multiple resistance to herbicides spanning several site-of-action groups. Survey data suggest that the majority of waterhemp populations now exhibit multiple-herbicide resistance.

When glyphosate-resistant crops were introduced, their initial success caused many weed-management practitioners to stop worrying about herbicide-resistant weeds.

Now the increasing occurrence of glyphosate resistance has caused those concerns to be revived and research to find new weed-management tools to be revitalized. “Within the next few years, we anticipate that new herbicide-resistant crops will be available,” said Tranel. “These

likely will include crops with genetically engineered resistance to 2,4-D, dicamba, or HPPD-inhibiting herbicides.”

These crops will be stacked with other forms of resistance, such as resistance to glyphosate and/or glufosinate. “Dow AgroSciences anticipates introducing its Enlist Weed Control System in corn in 2013 with soybean to follow later,” Tranel said. “The Enlist system includes metabolic resistance to 2,4-D that will be stacked with glyphosate resistance. Coupled to the Enlist system is a new formulation of 2,4-D.” Monsanto is also developing crops with resistance to synthetic auxin herbicides stacked with glyphosate resistance, but their crops will be resistant to dicamba rather than 2,4-D. They have recently announced that they are on track for a 2014 launch of dicamba-resistant soybean.

Both Syngenta and Bayer are evaluating crops resistant to HPPD inhibitors. Soybean is the most important for the Midwest, but it is not expected to be available for at least two years.

Although these new crops will increase herbicide options for a given crop, the options will not include novel site-of-action chemistries — they will use old chemistry, possibly with new formulations/variations.

“Most important, weed biotypes already exist that are resistant to these herbicides,” cautioned Tranel.

AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 21

CHAIRMAN TOURS CASE

Newly appointed chairman of the Board of Management, College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) Derrick Heaven (c) with (l-r) Mary Nichols, acting-president, CASE and Mark Gooden senior lecturer, CASE during an official visit to the college in Portland last Friday. The chairman told members of the staff that “the college must be very clear on the training needs and its impart to ensure it fits with the national priorities.”

Nichols concurred with the chairman on a number of the issues and pledged her commitment to working with him. CASE is the premier tertiary institution offering training and accreditation at the diploma, associate and bachelor’s degree level in a wide cross-section of agricultural disciplines.

22 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

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Agri Life Foundation has been established as a non-profit organization to foster and encourage farmers to become more self-sufficient and competitive in a free market economy.

One of the main ways that the Foundation will achieve these goals is through collaboration, professional support and advisory from experts in the field.

Such collaboration will provide a platform where individuals from academia, business, government, and the farming community can share research-based information and technology regarding environmentally sound management and profitable agricultural production practices.

For further information:

Patrick Maitland Executive Chairman Agri Life Foundation 188 Spanish Town Road, Kingston 11, Jamaica WI Tel: 923-7471; 923-7428 • patland2000@gmail.com www.agrilifefoundation.org

Computer program helps manage manure costs and benefits

24 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

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By Loretta Sorensen Midwest Producer racking the cost and benefit of manure application is key to successfully managing beef and/or crop production.

The factors involved in assessing manure application costs include manure mass and nutrient content; mass and nutrient losses during housing, storage and land application; land requirements for agronomic utilization of the manure; labor and equipment time requirements; transport and application costs; and potential nutrient manure value.

To simplify the process for determining each of these factors, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln developed the Beef Feed Nutrient Management Planner Economics Program (BFNMP$), a computer program that allows users to input their specific data and determine their specific costs.

Galen Erickson, UNL professor and Extension beef feedlot specialist, says identifying the acres where manure will be applied is often the point where many producers begin.

“In Nebraska we don’t have a real problem with finding land where manure can be applied,” Erickson said. “That isn’t the case in some other states, but throughout the Midwest it’s not real difficult.”

A second critical step is understanding the diet of the animals producing the manure. Because different feeds cause cattle to excrete different types of nutrients, farmers using manure on their crops need to have a thorough understanding of the nutrients contained in the manure.

“Distillers grains cause cattle to excrete more phosphorus,” Erickson said. “That means the manure will need to be distributed over a larger number of acres than if that phosphorus content was lower. It also means the cost of labor and equipment use will be higher because it will take more time to apply the manure.”

Because storing manure causes loss of some nutrients, it’s necessary to include storage details in the program used to estimate costs. A thorough understanding of the time involved in applying manure is also important.

“In a feedlot situation, your calculations may indicate you need 1,000 hours of labor and equipment time to apply your manure supply,” Erickson said. “If you only have 500 hours to dedicate to the process, you know you’ll have to hire laborers and equipment to help distribute the manure.”

The UNL program allows for calculating hourly pay, average field size, whether the manure is being spread on a nitrogen or phosphorus basis. All the data is necessary in order to reach a valid decision about manure application.

“You also include the crop that will be planted after manure application,” Erickson said. “Rough yield estimates help determine the nutrient needs for that field and guide the application process.”

In using the UNL model, some produc-

tEchnoloGy

ers have been surprised at the low cost of distributing manure and the offsetting value of the nutrients.

“We’ve found that, in a feedlot using distillers grains, the phosphorus content of the manure more than offsets the cost of applying it to the field,” Erickson said. “A typical scenario shows that the value of the manure averages $12 per animal. The cost of distributing the manure averages $2 per animal.”

Because distiller’s grains are economically priced for cattle feeders, a diet including distiller’s grains can benefit producers in a number of ways.

“You get a cost effective feed that’s read-

ily available and the added benefit of valuable manure,” Erickson said. “By taking advantage of the value of the nutrient, you add income on top of what’s realized through just feeding alone.”

It’s been about five years since Erickson and three of his peers developed the calculation tool, formally known as BFNMP$.

UNL Assistant Dean of Extension Rick Koelsch; professor and nutrient management specialist at Washington State University, Joe Harrison; and Extension professor at the Department of Agricultural Economics at the University of Missouri, Ray Massey, contributed to the project.

“For planning purposes, this is an in-

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valuable tool,” Erickson said. “You have to include all these factors to arrive at the best possible estimate of the cost involved in applying the nutrients.

Cattle diet is an essential piece of data because it so greatly affects the type of nutrients being excreted. Feedlots maintain these kinds of records anyway, so the data are readily available to them. If a producer doesn’t have all the data, there are default calculations for each segment of the program so they can still get ballpark figures.” http://go.unl.edu

INTERNATIONAL NEWS US$9.25 million to reduce Corn futures may hit $10 trade barriers between a bushel - Morgan Stanley orn futures, which topped $8 a to a 10-year low of 135 bushels per acre CARIFORUM and EU Cbushel for the first time, could yet this year, below the US Department of

AUGUST 2012 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 25

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BRIDGETOWN, Barbados:

emoving barriers to trade between the Caribbean Forum countries (CARIFORUM) and the European Union (EU) is critical for having more foreign exchange flows into this region.

That was the message sent by Ambassador of Barbados to CARICOM, Robert Morris, as he commented on a new multimillion dollar programme aimed at reducing the technical barriers to trade which currently exist between CARIFORUM and the EU. The US$9.25 million EU-funded programme is being coordinated by the CARICOM Regional Organisation for Standards and Quality (CROSQ).

"Caribbean policymakers are all aware that the major factor in the pursuit of sustainable development for our countries is our capacity to engage in trade, contributing to earning foreign exchange and building stable foreign reserves in our individual countries," said Morris.

The CARICOM ambassador also observed: "The project represents the benefits which can be derived from the EPA and underscores the importance of the need for access to funding for technical assistance in our region, as we struggle to transition

our small, vulnerable, open and disadvantaged economies."

This step is being taken to encourage participating countries to take advantage of the opportunities available under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) between the EU and CARIFORUM, which, the head of the delegation of the EU to Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean, Ambassador Valeriano Diaz, continues to lament is not being used to its full potential.

"Despite the considerable support being provided by the EU towards EPA implementation in the Caribbean, there seems to be some unease with the pace of progress and the realisation of potential benefits in this regard. This has led some people to question whether the region should have signed off on the EPA," said Diaz.

The EU delegation head denied that being signatory to the EPA would mean the Caribbean would be swamped by European firms and goods.

"The EPA encourages the Caribbean to implement regional commitments in trade in goods and as such it supports OECS integration, the CARICOM Single Market and Economy, as well as the CARICOMDominican Republic Free Trade Area," he stressed.

spike above $10 a bushel, Morgan Stanley said, lifted by a "battle royal" between livestock producers for supplies.

The investment bank hiked average 2012-13 forecasts for both Chicago corn futures, to $7.85 a bushel, and soybean futures, to $16.00 a bushel, citing the "need to ration demand" after heat and drought cut estimates for US yields.

However, given the "inelastic nature of demand" for the crops - meaning higher values may only choke off a small amount of consumption - and the prospect of "record tight" inventories prices could trade "significantly higher for short periods of time".

"Indeed, we anticipate periods of time in the coming months where corn trades in double-digits," Morgan Stanley said.

That forecast implies considerable further upside for futures.

Chicago's September contract on Thursday rose nearly 2% to a record, for a spot contract, of 8.16 ¾ a bushel, while the new crop December lot reached a contract high of $7.99 a bushel. 'Need for higher prices' Morgan Stanley based its forecasts on assumptions of the US corn yield falling

Agriculture's estimate of 146.0 bushels per acre.

In production terms, the bank pegged the US corn harvest at 11.9bn bushels, nearly 1.1bn bushels below the current USDA estimate.

"The market is quickly coming to appreciate the need for higher prices to protect already-depleted corn and soybean inventories, in light of disappointing production globally — and especially in the US," the bank said.

The bank pegged the soybean yield at 40.0 bushels per acre, compared with a USDA estimate of 40.5 bushels per acre, implying 91m bushels less in output, while noting the potential for further downgrades. "With US weather forecast to remain hot and dry through at least end-July and likely into August, the direction of yield estimates and production is likely lower still."

26 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2012

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Growing Turmeric for Profit TECHNICAL GUIDE

BY SYLBURN THOMAS sylburnthomas@cwjamaica.com

TURMERIC (Curcuma Longa L.)

urmeric (Curcuma longa) is a rhizomatous perennial plant of the ginger family (Zingeberaceae). The plant is propagated from its rhizomes which may vary in length from 5-7.5cm and are ready for harvesting at about 9-12 months after planting.

Although turmeric grows in many parts of Asia, Africa and the Americas, India is the world’s largest producer, accounting for 80%-85% of global production and 60% of exports. Turmeric is used mainly in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic/personal care industries.

In commercial turmeric production several key factors must be considered: 1.Location (site) – topography, soil and rainfall; 2.Planning and site preparation land preparation, spacing and plant propagation; 3.Planting and maintenance - planting out, weed control, fertilizing and pest and disease control.

LOCATION (SITE) Topography - Turmeric can be grown successfully on diverse terrains, ranging from flat lands, to undulating and slopes. In Jamaica, turmeric grows naturally in the upland plateau regions and gently undulating slopes in the parishes of St. James, Hanover, Westmoreland, Clarendon, St. Thomas, Portland, St. Mary and St. Andrew. The crop thrives at elevations from almost sea-level to about 1,500 metres above sea-level.

Soils-Turmeric thrives best in welldrained fertile loams and alluvial deposits rich in organic matter and uniform in texture. The crop grows best on moderately acid to neutral soils (pH5.5-7.0) and is susceptible to waterlogging, especially during the latter half of the production cycle.

Rainfall - Turmeric requires a warm and humid climate and is generally grown as a rain-fed crop but can also be irrigated.

Under rain-fed conditions, the crop requires about 1,500mm of evenly distributed rainfall over an 8-10 month period.

SITE PREPARATION AND PLANTING Land preparation -The land should be cleared of all vegetation and ploughed/harrowed to a fine tilth. Fallowing for 30 to 60 days allows weed seeds to germinate and may reduce microbial load in the upper 2-3 inches of the soil. There are two general methods of planting turmeric: Seed beds – Beds of convenient length are formed one metre wide, with a spacing of 30cm between beds. Seed rhizomes (20g 40g in weight) are planted 25cm across and 30cm along the beds, giving about 133,333 plants per hectare. High density planting of turmeric requires closer crop management.

Ridges and furrows – Furrows are made 45cm-60cm apart and seed rhizomes planted 20cm apart along the ridges, giving 83,333 to 111,111 plants per hectare. Ap-

turmeric in the field as such or parted into two. The seeds can be sprouted under moist straw (coir) before planting. Turmeric may be planted in pure stand or inter-cropped as the main or subsidiary crop, with varying planting density.

Turmeric should not be intercropped with allergenic plants such as peanuts and tree nuts or with host plants of rhizome rot or bacterial wilt pathogens.

proximately 2,500kg of turmeric planting material is required to cultivate one hectare at “seed” weight of 20g-40g (1-2 viable buds). The lower plating density under furrow and ridge system is associated with increased weed population and lower output per unit area.

reaped turmeric

PLANT PROPAGATION Turmeric is propagated asexually from mother and primary finger rhizomes. There is no significant yield variation between mother and primary finger rhizomes of the same weight, but mother rhizomes tend to produce earlier and more tillers, which are effective in weed suppression. Diameter of daughter/primary finger rhizomes of the same mass varies positively with yield. Secondary rhizomes are inferior to mother and primary rhizomes as planting material.

Turmeric yield varies positively with “seed” weight up to 20g, optimizes between 20g and 40g, and shows no covariation above 40g.

Varieties - In the genus Curcuma, to which turmeric belongs, over 30 varieties have been recognised. Currently, not much information is available on varieties of turmeric grown in Jamaica. However, Jamaican turmeric has been quantitatively confirmed among medium curcumin varieties.

PLANTING AND MAINTENANCE Planting out – Ideally, the crop should be planted between March and May during favourable weather conditions. The fingers are cut into pieces each 4-5cm long (1-2 buds), and the mother rhizomes are planted

FERTILIZING Under intensive turmeric production systems, manures are applied supplementary to inorganic fertilizers. Manures should at all times be applied strictly according to good agricultural practices to avoid adulteration of the final product. Poultry manure is probably the most concentrated of all manures available in Jamaica, containing about 3%N, 3%P2O5 and 2%K2O. Under certain conditions, particularly on the lighter bauxitic soils, it is advantageous to use welldecomposed organic manures at rates of about five tons per hectare. In addition to supplying macro nutrients, manures contain important micro nutrients and also help in improving soil structure. Biochar is particularly efficient in improving the moisture retention capacity of soils.

Quantity and timing of fertilizers– Turmeric requires 70kg, 50kg and 60kg, of N, P2O5 and K2O, respectively, per hectare, which can be derived from organic and or inorganic fertilizers. The actual application of fertilizers should be determined from soil analyses, target yield and expected nutrient dynamics. With target yield above 22mt/ha, it is common to supply up to 20% more of the macronutrients.

Nitrogen (N) is usually the most critical fertilizer element as far as amounts and timing are concerned, as it is more rapidly leached from the soil. It is advisable to apply nitrogen fertilizers to turmeric fields three times per crop cycle. Potassium (K), which is relatively less mobile than nitrogen, is applied twice and, Phosphorus (P), the most immobile of the macronutrients, is applied once at the time of planting.

About 20% of the N requirement is made available at the time of planting and the remainder applied as top dressings in two equal doses; the first dose at 60 days after planting in combination with 50% of the K2O requirement and the second dose 30

days later. The Phosphorus (P) fertilizer and 50% of the K2O are placed at planting. Due to the wide difference in nutrient application, straight fertilizers are preferred over compound NPK formulations in turmeric cultivation.

Magnesium (Mg) and Calcium (Ca) are only required on very acid soils (soils with pH lower than 5.0) and should be applied as basal soil dressings. It is unlikely that micronutrients or trace elements deficiencies will occur in the nutrition of turmeric. However, where needed, these may be applied as foliar sprays and responses are usually rapid.

Several plant hormones and nutritional products are commercially available to supplement traditional plant nutrition programs. However, care should be exercise to prevent agrochemical contamination of the final product and that the agrochemicals are approved in the intended export market.

Fertilizer placement - Placing fertilizers is often more difficult than broadcasting.

However, the advantages are significant, viz: Subsurface placement of phosphate fertilizer is more amenable to uptake by roots.

Urea may be used in preference to Ammonium Sulphate as the Nitrogen source in the fertilizer programme because of its higher N content. Subsurface application of urea reduces volatilization.

Competition from weeds is considerably reduced with subsurface fertilizing.

Erosion losses of subsurface fertilizer are negligible.

WEED CONTROL Mulching the turmeric beds with green leaves helps to suppress weed growth, retain soil moisture, reduce erosion and provide nutrients in the decomposed state.

However, during decomposition, nitrogen is absorbed from the soil and could result in temporary nitrogen deficiency. For the benefit of weed control, green mulching is done immediately after planting, and then at 4050 days intervals as needed. The economics and environmental impact of this practice should be carefully considered. Due to the high turmeric plant density, weed growth is considerably suppressed after about 90 days in the crop cycle. It is customary for weeding to be done about two times during the crop cycle. To control weeds in the interrows, a suitable selective herbicide may be used. Mechanically working between the ridges can control weeds when the crop is planted in ridge and furrow system.

INSECT PESTS AND DISEASES In Jamaica, turmeric is not known to be affected by diseases. However, under intensive cultivation, field should be monitored for any emergence of pests and diseases.

Harvesting is done 9 months after planting.

For further information contact: Sylburn Thomas, General Manager, Export Division, Ministry of Agriculture Marcus Garvey Drive, Kingston • Tel: (876) 923–8878 • sylburnthomas@cwjamaica.com

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Caring for a new Puppy

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• Chop any cooked food very finely – NO BONES! • Until 3 months of age the puppy should be fed four times daily • From 3 to 6 months – three times a day • From 6 to 12 months – twice a day • Introduce new foods gradually • Always prepare and serve food under clean conditions • Do not serve hot food – let it cool first • Remember milk is not a meal by itself • Provide plenty of fresh water and check it several times a day • Commercial puppy chow is a balanced diet, and provides all the minerals and vitamins required by a growing pup. For the very young ones the feed may be moistened.

Vaccinations Vaccinating boosts the immunity of the animal, and is especially important for young puppies, as it provides them with the ability to fight off infection all through adult life.

Ideally, the first vaccination should be given at 6 weeks, and subsequently at threeweek intervals until 16 weeks of age. At the same time de-worming is recommended at 17-21 days, and then every 3 weeks in conjunction with vaccination.

Heartworm This condition is spread by the bite of mosquitoes, and can be fatal. All animals should be given regular heartworm protection medication, especially puppies.

A blood test is performed by 6 months of age to ensure the animal is clear, the prophylactic is administered, and continued thereafter on a monthly basis. Routine testing should be done at least once a year.

Pet Care

Symptoms vary, but common signs are coughing, weight loss, lack of energy, depression and shortness of breath.

Heartworm can be treated, but the treatment is very expensive, and total rest is a MUST for at least four weeks afterwards.

There is no guarantee that the animal will stay free of heartworm, and monthly prophylactics should continue to be given. In the long run prevention is better, and cheaper, than cure (J.S.P.C.A.’s prices are very reasonable).

Leptospirosis Leptospirosis is a disease caused by spiral shaped bacteria called leptospires. It occurs worldwide and can affect humans as well as many wild and domestic animals, including dogs and cats, although infection in cats is rare).

The bacteria are spread through the urine of infected animals, which can get into water or soil and can survive there for weeks to months. Humans and animals can become infected through contact with this contaminated urine. The bacteria can enter the body through skin, eyes, nose, or mouth, espe-

Jamaican Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animal “Committed to Heal, Rescue and Protect” The JSPCA mandates to promote kindness to animals, prevent abuse and reduce fear, pain and suffering.

Contacts: 10 Winchester Road, Kingston 10 Te l : (876) 929-0320: Fax: (876) 754-4594 Emai l : jspca@yahoo.com; jspca@kasnet .com Caymanas Park (Meadow Vale entrance ) Por tmore, St. Catherine Tel : 998-4997 / 704-4278 (Open we ek- ends Only)

Brandon Hi l l, 14 Coke Avenue, Brandon Hill, Montego Bay, St James Tel : 797-2973-4

www.jspca.info

cially if the skin is broken from a cut or scratch. Drinking contaminated water can also cause infection.

If your pet has become infected, it most likely came into contact with rat urine. Your pet may have been drinking, or walking through contaminated water.

The clinical signs of leptospirosis vary and are nonspecific. Sometimes pets do not have any symptoms. Common clinical signs reported in dogs include fever, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea, refusal to eat, severe weakness and depression, stiffness, or severe muscle pain. Generally younger animals are more seriously affected than older animals.

If you suspect your pet is infected, get help immediately. The JSPCA can perform tests to detect the presence of leptospirosis in your pet, and will prescribe antibiotics. The earlier treatment is begun the better the chances of full and rapid recovery, and any organ damage may be less severe.

General Considerations Consult your vet when your pet has an open wound. NEVER use Jeyes fluid or other disinfectants on a dog’s fur. These are chemicals that burn like acid, and can cause severe injury and intense pain.

On the road an animal is a traffic hazard, and your pet may be injured by a vehicle.

Make sure you keep him on your property.

Train your pet with firmness and gentleness, and you will have a loyal protector.

Use praise and rewards, not punishments, as your training tools, and never beat or stone an animal, whether yours or anyone else’s.

Cruelty is not only morally wrong, it is against the law, and carries penalties!

Exposure to Pets Can Make Young Children Healthier

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A

By Vanessa Evans new study published online Monday from the journal Pediatrics found that children who had pets as part of their environment during the first year of their lives were on average healthier than children who did not have exposure to pets.

The study specifically looked at the impact that the presence of cats and dogs had on the children, and found that when a pet was present during the child's first year, the child on average suffered fewer ear infections and colds, among other health benefits.

According to the article in Pediatrics, the study was conducted in Finland. It involved some 397 children, who were followed from pregnancy up until they passed their first year. All the children were born in the threeyear period between 2002 and 2005. Households were asked to keep weekly diaries regarding the presence of dogs and cats, and then at the end of the child's first year, filled out an additional questionnaire.

A link was found between the number of ear infections, colds, and other respiratory ailments and the amount of time that a child spent exposed to animals. In addition, the number of times a child required a course of antibiotics for their ailments was also studied against exposure to animals.

In general, researchers found that exposure to a pet decreased the chances that a child would develop respiratory ailments or other ailments needing antibiotic treatment. This correlation was far stronger in dogs, where exposure appeared to coincide with as much as a 31 percent reduction in respiratory issues, including infections.

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HEALTHY LIVING

Six Ways to Prevent AIDS

1) ABSTINENCE Abstinence is not having sex. A person who decides to practice abstinence has decided not to have sex. So only avoiding all types of intimate genital contact can prevent STDs. Avoiding all types of intimate genital contact — including anal and oral sex —is complete abstinence.

2) NO ONE-NIGHT STAND The individuals participating in a one-night stand typically have not known each other long and have had minimal time to get to know each other before engaging in sexual activity. A one-night sexual encounter is not necessarily always a one-night stand; the crucial distinction is the expectation or intention that the relationship will not necessarily be extended beyond the initial sexual encounter.

3) NO ANONYMOUS SEX Anonymous sex is one of the highest-risk sexual activities, both as the sexual history of both partners are unknown to the other, and also because those engaging in anonymous sex are more likely to have a large number of partners. Anonymous sex is a form of onenight stand or casual sex between people who have very little or no history with each other, often engaging in sexual activity on the same day of their meeting and usually never seeing each other again afterwards.

4) NO SMOKING Cigarettes are linked scientifically to AIDS four (4) ways. They (a) contain toxic chemicals, (b) impair the immune system setting up the

body for numerous diseases, by increasing susceptibility, (c) have a role in leading to other drugs, and (d) cause abulia and impaired selfdefense reflex, leading to committing high-risk behaviors. This adverse quadruple action makes cigarettes a risk factor in AIDS.

5)ALWAYS WEAR CHASTITY BELT Women should wear chastity belts to prevent rape, incest and other sex crimes. Chastity Belts should be worn willingly, and safely for Men and Women. So the idea of this list is to have in one place all the reasons that someone would willingly wear a chastity belt. The belt can be worn to free the wearer's mind of fear or guilt when interacting with members of the opposite sex. This one can be confusing.

6) USE CONDOMS Condoms Are Disposable, Not Recyclable.

We use condoms for protection against infections! Soap and water alone doesn't clean and disinfect it. Recycling IT means you risk yourself to AIDS, gonorrhea, even UTI and other sexual diseases.

Always use a reliable condoms from trusted manufacturer.Never use recycled condoms.

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Healthy Tips

• Take a walk!- What better way to start off a calorie filled day than by doing a bit of exercising in the morning.

• Eating Slowly – Give your brain a chance to catch up to your stomach! In other words, if you eat slower, you are more likely to feel full while having eaten less than if you ate a lot quickly.

• Don't Skip Breakfast, have a light lunch –Eating throughout the day will make you less hungry for the high calorie foods that come with dinner.

• Cranberries – Better fresh or frozen, a good fruit source and antioxidants that shouldn't be discounted on Thanksgiving.

• Drink lots of water – Makes you full throughout the day and better than alcoholic beverages or fruit juices/soda in terms of calorie content.

• White turkey meat has less fat, avoid the skin – White meat without the skin has 70% less fat and 27% fewer calories than dark meat with the skin.

• Use low-fat plain yogurt in place of sour cream – Lose the fat without losing the taste!

NutriCare By

Gloria Bent, MS, RD, CDN Nutritionist

Questions &Comments

gloria.bent@gmail.com

• Skim or 1% low fat milk only – 2% and whole milk should be avoided.

• Freeze leftovers in portion sizes – A way to avoid overeating during the following weekend is to freeze the leftovers in portion sizes in your freezer.

• Give leftovers to guests, or don't take left overs when a guest – Either way, you avoid the leftovers sitting around the house.

• Work to maintain your weight during the holiday season – It's very hard to keep one's weight steady throughout the year. Try to keep up your exercise regimens despite the cold as the best way to offset any holiday splurging, and of course try not to splurg!

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