The Agricutlrualist Newspaper - August 2015 by Patrick Maitland

VOL. 25 NO. 4 • AUGUST 2015

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THE MINISTER RAPS WITH THE QUEENS:

Minister of Agriculture, Labour and Social Security, Hon Derrick Kellier (front centre) and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Donovan Stanberry (back centre) share a moment with the contestants in the 2015 National farm Queens Competition at the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries on Wednesday, July 29. Minister Kellier congratulated the girls on their involvement in the competition and for their interest in agriculture and encouraged them to continue to pursue this interest with zeal and enthusiasm. The National Farm Queen Competition is organized annually by the Jamaica Agricultural Society and the contestants are chosen based on their knowledge of agriculture. They are then judged in several categories, including the knowledge of farm practices, agriculture, etiquette, a written technical paper relating to questions from current agricultural issues, and a talent piece. Coronation of the National Farm Queen will be held at the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show on Friday, July 31.Turn to pages 10-15 for Denbigh feature.

Ag Boards Yield Mixed Results

By Patrick Maitland, Editor-The Agriculturalist everal governments operated agricultural companies and organizations have been recording improved financial results, including profit/surplus, while others continue to flaunt the laws with outdated and incomplete financial reports.

Banana Board recorded a surplus of $77.4M The government’s chief agent for research and extension, the Banana Board, recorded a surplus of $77.4 million for the year ending Dec. 31, 2013. This represented an increase of $59 million or 320 percent over the $18.4 million recorded in the previ-

ous years. The Board achieved this surplus from total income of $105.5 million, including government subvention of $80.3 million, rental $12.8 million and grant of $9.4 million. Salaries and administrative expenses was $65.6 million, or 62 percent of total income. Some $322,980 was paid out to five directors.

JAS net assets grew by 20%

The Jamaica Agricultural Society’s (JAS) net assets grew by 20 percent over the last 12 years, to value $443 million at the end of the entity’s 2014/15 financial year on March 31. This figure, according to JAS President, Senator Norman Grant, represents an average annual growth of approximately

1.7 percent on the asset base, which stood at $370 million in 2003. It is also $8 million or two per cent higher than the $435 million recorded in 2014. Additionally, he said total year-on-year investments improved from $32.3 million in 2012, to $34.2 million last year.

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We salute and support our farmers

EDITORIAL PAGE

Water is also life for farmers

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amaica is known as the land of wood and water because the island’s resources consist of every active limestone and alluvial aquifers. It is also estimated that the island has more than 100 important rivers that provide up to 85 percent of the island’s water needs in both urban and rural communities. Rainfall has been another major source for water. Today, however, the island is drier than normal in some areas. A comparison of the old 30-year-mean (1951-80) with the 1971-2000 mean by the Meteorological Service has shown that the island’s rainfall patterns and values have not changed significantly for the current 30-year (1971-2000) period. The changes could be described as wetter-dry periods and drier-wet periods. This has however not affected the overall rainfall pattern for the island. In fact, the rainfall data for 2014 was 183 mm and 2013 at 205mm compared with the 202 mm 30-year normal average.

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Focal Point by PATRICK MAITLAND

Publisher -The Agriculturalist editor@theagriculturalist.com

However, the forecast from the Meteorological Service indicates that below normal rainfall is likely to continue across the Caribbean as a result of the pending El Niño conditions and the drier than normal atmospheric conditions. On the other hand, the Ministry of Water and Climate Change also suggested that the “change scenarios indicate a decrease in rainfall of 0.52% by 2030 and 18.4% by 2080.”

The so-called climate change phenomenal has been negatively affecting Jamaica. Nevertheless, it would appear that we are still getting reasonable rainfall and the underground supplies are still available. The unreliable water supplies are also affecting agricultural production and contributing to the spread of fires on several farms.

Ag Boards Yield Mixed Results

However, if we are serious about food production, we must get our act together and better manage our water resources. Despite its indebtedness, including $223 million owed to the Jamaica Public Services Company (JPS) and management challenges over the years, the National Irrigation Commission Limited (NIC) must be empowered to lead the process of efficiently harvesting and distributing water to farmers. Operating since May 1987, the NIC is only supplying irrigated water to an estimated 36,000 hectares or less than 10 percent of the farmland. Water is arguably the most critical factor in “enabling Jamaica’s food supplies.” NIC must forge workable partnership with agricultural stakeholders such as irrigation equipment suppliers and energy generation companies. Water is also life for farmers.

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.

Continued from page 1

Coconut Board’gross deficit was $68.5 million

The Coconut Industry Board’s gross deficit was $68.5 million at the end of the financial year December 2014. However, the board recorded accumulated surplus of $149 million at the end period. Total income was $92.6 million, including $37.3 million from interest and investment income, while expenses peaked at $161.1 million, including a deficit of $20.2 million on the operations of the seed gardens and nurseries. The Coconut Board’s accumulated assets stood at $2.9 billion, including shares in Seprod Limited valued at $2 billion.

National Irrigation Commission incurred deficit of $180.3M

The National Irrigation Commission incurred a deficit of $180.3 million in the financial year 2013/2014 compared with a profit of $40.8 million in the previous year. The operating revenue from the core business area of water sales, drainage charges and government subsidies for the financial year decreased by 2.2 percent or $21.4 million when compared with the previous year. The decrease resulted primarily from a reduction in government subvention of $27.8 million which was offset by a marginal increase in the sale of water revenue by $7 million. The commission’s operating cost also increased by 23.8 percent or $182 million to $946.1 million from $764.1 million in the previous year.

Cane Farmers Association - net surplus of $14.68M The All-Island Jamaica Cane Farmers Association recorded a net surplus of $14.68

million for the year ended September 30, 2012. This represented a 65 percent increase over the previous year’s figure which was restated at $8.89 million. The operations were financed primarily from a grant of $41 million from the Government of Jamaica and the fees collected from the factories on behalf of cane farmers in the amount of $15.1 million. The report was among several other reports submitted to parliament under the signature of Agriculture Minister Derrick Kellier and dated April 23, 2015. However, DGS Chartered Accountants and Business Advisors noted that there was no actuarial valuation done to determine information pension scheme as the present value of the defined benefits. Additionally, due to the lack of supporting documentation, they were unable to substantiate the pension contribution payable for the defined contribution scheme as of Sept, 30, 2012.

Cocoa Board incurred a loss of $62.3M The Cocoa Industry Board incurred a loss of $62.3 million during the period ending Sept. 30, 2013. However, this represented an improvement in the financial performance of the Board from a loss of $96.5 million in the previous year, according to auditors Ian & Company Accountants.

Agro-Invest makes a profit of $4.86M

The investment arm of the Ministry of Agriculture, Agro-Invest Corporation, ended the 2013-2014 fiscal years with a profit of $4.86 million. This represents a 138 percent increase in net profit in comparison to the prior year’s deficit (2013, $12.96 million). The rise may be attributed primarily to increases in the allocation of government

grants of $72.9 million and subvention of $59.3 million as well as reduction in provision for impairment $16.2 million. Despite the heavy injection, the corporation operated at deficit of $54.44 million resulting from a 223 percent rise in expenditure on agricultural development projects.

SIA accounts were not supplied

The Sugar Industry Authority (SIA) accounts were not supplied. However, according to PricewaterhouseCoopers, its auditors were unable to obtain sufficient appropriate evidence about the completeness and accuracy of administrative expenses totally $13.79 million allocated to the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries’ Cane Expansion Fund. The report supplied by the Minister was dated April 6, 2015 and covered the period ending October 31, 2011.

Publisher & Editor:

Patrick Maitland

Consulting Editors:

Vincent Wright, Jairzenho Bailey Produced & Published by:

Agri Life Foundation Ltd

AMC Complex, 188 Spanish Town Road, Kingston 11, Jamaica, W.I. Tel: (876) 923-7471• 923-7428 Fax: (876) 923-7428 agriculturalist@gmail.com editor@theagriculturalist.com www.theagriculturalist.com

Syngenta warns of 'slowing growth' in GM seeds sector

yngenta warned of a slowdown in the market for genetically modified crops as the ag giant, being pursued by biotech seeds champion Monsanto, unveiled better-than-expected profits and hailed its agrichemicals portfolio. The Swiss-based group, for which Monsanto has unveiled a $45bn takeover offer, said that the market for GM crops was "slowing", having reached "saturation levels" in markets where the technology is permitted, and still being restricted in the likes of Europe, Japan and Russia. Already, well over 90% or canola, corn, cotton and soybeans grown in the US is from biotech seed. In South America, the technology has penetrated more than 80% of the Argentine and Brazilian corn markets, and in corn has a 93% share in Brazil and 100% share in Argentina. However, the group said that its own revenues from GM seed traits would more than double over the next five years, to approaching $1bn, fuelled by China's approval of its MIR 162 corn seed, which offers particular protection against insect pests, and has been licensed to rivals including Monsanto. MIR 162 was the seed at the centre of China's rejection of a series of cargos of US corn last year, provoking losses for merchants and a series of lawsuits lodged against Syngenta, before the technology was approved by Beijing officials.

obituaries

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MOA Videographer died

ideographer at the Ministry of Agriculture and fisheries and of Joyce Road, Golden Spring, St. Andrew. Glenroy Kirkland "GLEN" Bucknor died on Died on July 4, 2015. He is survived by children Ebonique and Destiny; father Watson; brothers Robin, Garnet and Rodney; sisters Karine and Stivette, other relatives, co-workers and friends.

Aaron Parke, agriculturalist & attorney-at-law

gronomist, international business development/management consultant, attorney-at-Law, former permanent secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and chairman of the Agro Investment Corporation, Aaron Parke on Thursday, June 11, 2015 while in Florida for treatment in his battle with cancer.

-------------------------------------Send your obituaries report to: editor@theagriculturalist.com

EDUCATION

EBONY PARK/CASE MOU:

In photo (l-r) Winston Jones, the College of Agriculture, Science and Education (CASE) International Liaison Officer; Dave Sergeon, HEART Trust NTA, Ebony Park; Shim-Hue-Deputy Manager, Ebony Park; Robert Green –Director/Principal Ebony Park, Dian Medley, CASE Vice President, CASE and Vincent Myres, Head of Section, Ebony Park. The HEART Trust NTA, Ebony Park and CASE signed a Memorandum of Understand (MOU) to ensure greater collaboration between the two leading agricultural training institutions at the college in Portland recently.

Some farmers accused of price gouging in wake of dry spell

The Ministry of Agriculture is accusing some farmers of unfairly jacking up the prices of their agricultural produce under the guise that they are grappling with the effects of the dry spell. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Donovan Stanbury, says there is no justifiable reason for the doubling of farm gate prices. The magnitude of increase is not in keeping with the inputs and he promises that the buying public will be saturated with information on where to make purchases. The Ministry is looking at strategies

to help protect consumers from price gouging. The Ministry will be working with the Consumer Affairs Commission to provide information on farm gate prices. Consideration is being given to placing the information on the Ministry's website. On Monday our sister station, TVJ, reported that farmers in St. Elizabeth have warned that further increases in the price of ground produce are coming as they have been battered by the prolonged dry spell. In the meantime, Mr. Stanbury says given the current situation consumers may have to make tough decisions.

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No need for panic as dry spell continues

he Ministry of Agriculture says, despite the impact of the dry spell on several farming communities, there is no need to panic regarding the supply of agricultural produce. The drought has reduced production levels as some farmers do not have access to irrigation and the cost of purchasing water is a deterrent. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Donovan Stanbury, says the dry spell has not been impacting all parishes with the same measure of severity. “In fact some of the western parishes are having good rainfall. It is not a situation where there is a complete shortage of food items.” Stanbury also said Ministry has not seen an increase in requests for permits to import agricultural produce. ---------------------------------

Another three-year for Senator grant

overnment Senator Norman W. Grant has been re-elected unopposed president of the JAS for another three yearterm at the 120th Annual General Meeting of the Jamaica Agricultural Society held on Tuesday July 8, 2015 at the Denbigh Show Ground, May Pen Clarendon. Incumbent 1st vice-president, Donald Berry and 2nd vice-president, Royston Johnson were also re-elected, while Hugh Johnson was selected a direct member representative to the JAS over thirty-member strong board of directors. -------------------------

Agriculture Ministry Endorses H2K Organic Stimulants

By Rochelle Williams he Ministry of Agriculture is endorsing the use of the Health 2000 (H2K) AGRO line of organic stimulants in Jamaica in an effort to boost soil health and crop productivity. State Minister in the Ministry, Luther Buchanan said the use of the products is in keeping with strategies by the Ministry to introduce innovative sustainable farming methods to ensure the viability of the sector, thereby safeguarding the country’s food supply. The all-natural bio stimulants, which will be distributed locally by Health Brands Jamaica Limited, have proven to improve the yield and quality of crops including fruits, vegetables, and small grains. “We will produce greater quantities, which will feed more of our people, we will eat what we grow and we will be able to manufacture more value-added products and spend less on imports,” he said. Buchanan was addressing the recent launch of Health 2000 (H2K) AGRO Jamaica at the Terra Nova Hotel in Kingston. The all-natural bio stimulants, which will be distributed locally by Health Brands Jamaica Limited, have proven to improve the yield and quality of crops including fruits, vegetables, and small grains.

NEWS

Refined Sugar Cess To Fund Farming

The proposed cess on imported refined sugar forms part of the administration’s undertaking to restructure the regime governing the importation of the commodity, with the proceeds earmarked to fund the sector’s transformation. This was stated by Minister of Agriculture, Labour and Social Security, Hon. Derrick Kellier, at a ground breaking ceremony for the repairing of 14 kilometres of cane roads from Elim to Braes River in St. Elizabeth, on July 9. The Minister had emphasized that the Government would not allow imported refined sugar, meant for the manufacturing sector, to continue to be leaked to the retail trade, and undermine raw sugar production and rob the Government of much needed revenue. The proposed cess on imported refined sugar forms part of the administration’s undertaking to restructure the regime governing the importation of the commodity, with the proceeds earmarked to fund the sector’s transformation. This was stated by Minister of Agriculture, Labour and Social Security, Derrick Kellier, at a ground breaking ceremony for the repairing of 14 kilometres of cane roads from Elim to Braes River in St. Elizabeth, on July 9. In his contribution to the 2015/16 Sectoral Debate in the House of Representatives on April 21, the Minister had emphasized that the Government would not allow imported refined sugar, meant for the manufacturing sector, to continue to be leaked to the retail trade, and undermine raw sugar production and rob the Government of much needed revenue. The Minister said then that the imposition of the cess is also intended to level the playing field within the sector, noting that all other sugar consumed in Jamaica is subject to a similar tax.

A ROAD REHABILITATION PROJECT:

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-MOA PHOTO:

Minister of Agriculture, Labour and Social Security, Derrick Kellier (centre, seated), is assisted with the signing of contract document by Milton Hodelin, project engineer, Sugar Transformation Unit, at the contract signing and groundbreaking ceremony for a road rehabilitation project held on July 9 at Brae’s River in St. Elizabeth while (from left, seated) Member of Parliament for North East St. Elizabeth, Raymond Pryce, signs as witness. At right is Newton Barnes, contractor at N.F. Barnes Construction & Equipment Limited. Standing, from left, are Jesús Orús Baguena, Head of Cooperation at the Delegation of the European Union to Jamaica and Keleen Young-Grandison, head of the Sugar Transformation Unit.

RADA…Revolutionizing Agriculture

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NEWS RADA 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION ing in Greenhouse Production and facilitating technologies in agriculture to ensure effectiveness and perpetuate innovations to over 50,000 trained farmers island-wide. Based on the need to encourage new entrants in agricultural business ventures, as one of the main strategic pillars of the organization, special emphasis is given to incorporate women and youth in our programmes and In terms of organizational realignment,

Lenworth Fulton, CEO, RADA

he Rural Agricultural Development authority (RADA) this year celebrates its milestone achievement of twenty five years of unwavering service delivery to the farmers of Jamaica. Established under the Rural Agricultural Development Authority Act of 1990, and replacing the Land Authorities Act, RADA began its operation on August 1, 1990. As the chief extension agency of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries we are honoured to continue this thrust in offering technical advisory services in the effort to improve production and productivity within the agricultural sector. With the motto of ‘People, Land and Opportunity’ we have sought to chart the course of an efficient, modern, relevant and sustainable extension service that has been ameliorating the quality of life of rural farm families. We wish to highlight and thank the pioneers at the helm of the organization’s existence to include the visionary Hon. Horace Clarke, Dr. Garnett Brown, who ably served as RADA’s first Executive Chairman and subsequently as Executive Director, Dr. Fenton Dyer as Chairman, and other distinguished leaders who have paved the way and laid the foundation for this noble organization’s growth and development. Our local regional and international partners have also provided their unstinting support to us over the years and for this we are truly grateful. We have indeed solidified our efforts in providing notable and sustainable initiatives to our farmers to include: Production and Productivity Programmes, Integrated Pest Management, Social Services / Home Economics, Marketing and Livestock along with the National Farmers’ Registration Programme, ABIS among many others. The ABIS database one of our flagship programmes is a comprehensive means of providing demographics, crop production data and other forms of reporting mechanisms, market intelligence and information on planning and forecasting. In making farmers more knowledgeable and capable of managing their farms and improving the quality of their output we have been making direct strides in introducing concepts such as Farmer Field Schools, Climate Smart Agriculture, train-

RADA has not only sought to augment its core extension staff from sixty to ninety eight Extension Officers but have also been encouraging continuous recertification and training of its extension staff through gender sensitization programmes mainstreaming gender in extension delivery, providing advanced farmer field school train the trainer programmes among several others. Much has been done by means of fulfilling several programmes projects and ini-

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tiatives facilitated by both local and international agencies and much more is needed to be done to ensure our work is impactful in providing technical knowledge transfer for another twenty –five years and beyond. The farmers have a great role to play in making the sector viable and we encourage them to share the information garnered and work together in a structured manner to attain a unified goal of increasing productivity.

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Denbigh 2015 to Attract 120,000 Patrons

By Judith Hunter JIS resident of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), Senator Norman Grant, addresses a JIS Think Tank on July 1, where he unveiled plans for Denbigh 2015. The 52-acre Denbigh Showground in Clarendon will be abuzz with activities from July 31 to August 2, with the staging of the 63rd Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show. The annual three-day event is organised by the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS). Over 120,000 persons are expected to attend Denbigh this year. The 52-acre Denbigh Showground in Clarendon will be abuzz with activities from July 31 to August 2, with the staging of the 63rd Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show. The annual three-day event is organised by the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS). Over 120,000 persons are expected to attend Denbigh this year. The highly anticipated event, considered to be the premier agro-industrial show in Jamaica and the English-speaking Caribbean, will be held under the theme: ‘Grow what you eat…Eat what you grow – Making Agriculture Sustainable.’

DENBIGH LAUNCH: (l-r) JAS 1st vice-president, Donald Berry, President of the JAS, Norman Grant, Jamaica Broiler’s CEO, Chris Levy; and Minister of Agriculture, Labour and Social Security, Derrick Kellier at the recent launch of Denbigh 2015.

Addressing a JIS Think Tank on Wednesday, July 1, President of the JAS, Senator Norman Grant, said that this year’s event forms part of the JAS’ yearlong 120th anniversary celebrations from May 2015 to May 2016.

“We will highlight how the JAS has empowered our farmers and contribute to the building of a strong agricultural sector over last 120 years,” he said.

According to Senator Grant the show continues to attract patrons, who are not only interested in the festivities but in actually investing in agriculture. As a result, this year, the JAS will undertake an initiative to dispense information on investing in agriculture, and provide on-the-spot consulting sessions with persons, “who have shown more than mere cursory interest in investing in agriindustrial ventures”. The main objectives of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show are: to promote the agricultural sector; display the best foods produced in Jamaica; and highlight the importance of agriculture to food security, business development and nation building. Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, is expected to attend the July 31 opening. Minister of Agriculture, Labour and Social Security, Derrick Kellier, will be in attendance on August 1; while Prime Minister, the Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller is scheduled to attend on August 2. Gates will open daily at 8:00 a.m. each day and admission is $800 for adults.

‘Eat what we grow… Grow what we eat’

Over the past six years Noranda Jamaica Bauxite Partners has been leading the charge to transform agriculture by sharing greenhouse technology and spearheading the building of sixty greenhouses for small farmers in our mining areas.

We call it the ‘greenhouse revolution’ – helping to feed

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A dynamic agricultural event A s the longest, most dynamic agricultural event spanning 63 years, the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show is unquestionably one of the country’s premier events that continues to earn the love and support of thousands of Jamaicans, especially during the Emancipation and Independence season. I commend the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) for remaining committed to ensuring that the Show continues to be a national success year after year. The numerous benefits and support that our local farmers have gained at this annual event have certainly boosted the agricultural sector and I wholeheartedly thank the JAS for its significant contribution in this regard. Agriculture is deeply embedded in Jamaica’s history and culture. In fact, our foundation is built on the hard work of our forefathers who toiled the land and helped our country to achieve significant economic gains through farming. Today, agriculture remains a significant sector that supports our country’s growth and development agenda. I am particularly pleased to note that up to March of this year, domestic agriculture production registered growth of 3.4 percent despite significant challenges to the sector. Additionally, through the Government’s Agro-Parks initiative, we are making headway in developing a sustainable agriculture industry that brings truth to the mantra

Portia Simpson Miller, ON, MP Prime Minister

“Grow What We Eat, Eat What We Grow.” We are certainly reaping the fruits of our labour with the Agro-Parks which were established contributing to a reduction in the food import bill last year. Certainly, the investments are paying off and the initiatives to buttress and transform the agricultural sector are showing promise. This outstanding event would not have been possible without the tremendous consistent efforts of the JAS, Ministry of Agriculture and the various sponsors who organise the engaging activities and exceptional displays we associate with the Denbigh brand. My very best wishes for a successful staging of Denbigh 2015.

A vision for a better Jamaica

he agenda has been established. Jamaica is on a serious mission to grow our economy and to increase the well-being and prosperity of our citizens. Making agriculture sustainable is an important part of the strategy to achieve these goals. As we pursue our national vision for a better Jamaica, it is always ting to identify and celebrate those things and traditions which help to de ne who we are as a people. Our agricultural institutions and achievements, among which the Annual Denbigh Agricultural Show is to be counted, are undoubtedly an important part of our national identity. Against that background, I am very pleased to hail and commend the farmers of Jamaica who, under the leadership of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), have brought us all together again to celebrate the Jamaican agricultural sector. I wish to especially note the staunch resilience of our approximately 230,000 small farmers, who continue to brave the myriad challenges of this sector, including extended dry spells, crop pests and diseases, and forest fires, and continue to e sure the production of food crops. And, in addition, I wish to acknowledge the valuable contribution of our agroprocessers, exporters, suppliers, marketers and, financiers, along the value chain of agricultural production. This is year we mark special milestones – the 120th Anniversary of the JAS; 75th Anniversary of the 4-H Clubs, 65th Anniversary of the Coffee Industry Board and the 25th Anniversary of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA). As we celebrate, I implore all Jamaicans to increase your appreciation for the stalwart

Derrick Kellier Agriculture Minister

work of these sector organisations by eating more of what we grow. Denbigh is truly a marketplace for ideas and innovations as farmers and other industry stakeholders meet face to face, interact and sow new seeds for future growth and development of the sector. I note the product improvement plans for Denbigh and the inauguration of new components, including the new food court, named in honour of the late former Minister, the Hon. Roger Clarke. In this regard I also note the livestock auction and the Agriculture App Competition. As we look to the future, let us all continue to work to make Jamaican agriculture sustainable. On behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, it gives me great pleasure to congratulate the farmers, the Jamaica Agricultural Society and all the participants in, this, the 63rd Anniversary of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show.

Meet The Farm Queens

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Meet The Farm Queens

Denbigh features and attractions

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Children and Family Hub The Children and Family Hub for this years staging of the Denbigh Show will focus primarily on teaching children about agriculture in a fun way, through games, rides and agriculture based activities. Children, at a young age, are impressionable and it is an opportunity to sow the seeds of agriculture in their minds, while making it fun enough to capture and keep their attention. In this way, the future of agriculture can be protected. Tourism and Linkage Hub The Denbigh Secretariat will re-introduce the concept of the Tourism and Linkage Hub for Denbigh 2014 and the Jamaica Tourist Board will collaborate with us in this initiative. The Tourism and Linkage Hub is an integral facet of the Denbigh Show as it is intended to highlight and promote the importance of collaboration within the sectors to showcase our cuisine culture and to inform the public of its benefits to national development. The Tourism and Linkage Hub will offer participants within the Hotel and other Industries the opportunity to: -Become an integral part of the Buyer's Exchange and Linkage Forum -Host discussions through seminars focusing on the importance of the advancement of tourism, the country's main source of foreign exchange and its link with the agricultural sector -Showcase the tourism sector's utilization of agricultural products through sampling of foods and beverages -Provide an entertainment outlet for tourists to become exposed to another aspect of Jamaica's culture and creativity -As is traditionally expected, each day of the show is especially dedicated to a particular Government Official who addresses the audience or patrons.

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-The Tourism and Linkage Hub will become the hub of interrelated partnership between the tourism and agricultural sectors.

Health & Wellness Hub One of the focuses of the Health and Wellness Hub is to provide healthcare services that are both educational and beneficial for the patrons well being. In recognizing the important elements of maintaining complete physical, mental, and social lifestyle the health and wellness circle becomes an integral aspect of the Denbigh Show to provide screening, essential tests and health checks to interested persons attending the event. The Health and Wellness Hub will therefore give the Health and Wellness Provider the opportunity to: To strengthen business relations with existing clientèle and to create awareness for the latest holistic and organic well-being products and services.

THE PRIDE OF DENBIGH SHOW:

Outgoing National Farm Queen Tishauna Mullings poses with the trophy she won in 2014. Mullings is an Ambassador for the Governor General's I Believe Initiative who engages herself in youth empowerment activities continuously. She was also nominated for the Prime Minister's Youth Award in the area of Youth Work in 2013. She is able to express her passion for the socioeconomic improvement of her community working as an Agriculture Value Chain Administrator at the St. Thomas Cooperative Credit Union. She assists in providing access to finance for rural farmers for agricultural production. She enjoys planting onions, melons and string beans in her backyard garden for relaxation.

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AUGUST 2015 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 15

Contribution to nation building

Patrick Allen Governor-General his year’s staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show falls within the Jamaica Agricultural Society’s celebration of their 120 years of contribution to nation building. It is also taking place at a time of severe drought and bush fires that have impacted farmers in every parish. Against this background we can agree that the single greatest item on display at Denbigh, this year, is the courage and determination of the JAS and our hard working farmers across Jamaica. They are the epitome of the persistence and resilience of the Jamaican people, of which we are very proud. The sub-theme for Denbigh 2015 “Making Agriculture Sustainable” supports the tra-

jectory on which the JAS embarked several years ago with the “Grow what we eat…Eat what we grow” and “Eat Jamaican” campaigns. It is also in keeping with the thrust for agricultural development to promote our food security and contribute to the growth of the Jamaican economy. Agriculture should therefore be sustainable in both quality and consistency of output, driven by the application of modern technologies that will enable its effectiveness and mitigate the harmful effects of natural and man-made hazards. To this end, I urge you the JAS and all our farmers, to continue to forge creative linkages that will cement agriculture as a primary pillar of growth in our economy. I particularly commend the work that has been accomplished under the youth in agriculture programme and hope that more of our young people will be motivated to engage in this sector. It is my hope that this year’s show will be successful not only in terms of the exhibits and support from the wider populace, but also because of the resulting recommitment of all stakeholders to making agriculture sustainable.

A sense of pride and admiration

Andrew Holness Leader of The Opposition

t is with a sense of pride and admiration for your contribution to the development of Jamaica’s agricultural sector as a key part of the productive base of our economy that I extend heartiest congratulations to the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), as we mark the 63rd staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food show. Denbigh 2015 promises to be as exciting, fulfilling and rewarding for farmers, exhibitors, and patrons alike. The organizing committee must be recognized for their successful planning over the years of this important national event. There is no doubt that the JAS’s oversight and active support over the years has helped farmers and other Denbigh Agricultural Show stakeholders navigate the vicissitudes of a dynamic and challenging sector. Your vigilance and oversight these past 63 years have not only amounted to critical support but have inured to the establishment of a brand and product – the Denbigh Show, which all Jamaica can be proud of. This annual agricultural exhibition showcases Jamaica’s finest agricultural offerings and continues to be an irresistible and alluring attraction for Jamaican farmers and their admirers throughout the length and breadth of our beautiful island. The thou-

sands of people who have made it a “must see” on their calendars each year is manifest testimony to this fact. There can be no doubt that Agriculture plays a fundamental role in the growth of an economy. The Jamaican economy is no different and although it has diminished somewhat agriculture remains a significant and weighty contributor to the development of the Jamaican economy.

The Denbigh History

ince 1895, the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) has been at the forefront of the promotion of agriculture and has mounted several shows island wide. The first show staged by the Society was the Kendal Show, which was held in Kendal, Clarendon and since then, District and Parish Shows have been held in every parish throughout the island with the main attractions being livestock, agricultural and horticultural exhibits. The Denbigh Agricultural and Industrial Show is a hallmark event that has been embedded in the unique culture and the broad fabrics of the Jamaican people from as early as 1953 to present. Situated on twenty nine hectares of picturesque lands at May Pen, Clarendon, the Denbigh Show comes to life for three days of pulsating activities offering wholesome entertainment to over sixty thousand patrons that have been attending the event on an annual basis. Spirits have been lifted and enthusiasm built for the unforgettable experience of the grand Exposition that has been renowned for promoting the farmers livelihood, i.e. the

finest quality agricultural produce from varied commodity groups, its value added products, industrial and technological equipment from main stakeholders affiliated within the agricultural sector. As is traditionally expected, each day of the show is especially dedicated to a particular Government Official who addresses the audience or patrons. Many of these invited guests who have made valid contributions to the Show’s experience include: Governor of Puerto Rico in 1955, the former Governor Generals – Sir Clifford Campbell, Sir Florizel Glasspole, Sir Howard Cooke, Professer Sir Kenneth Hall and the present Governor General Sir Patrick Allen. Heads of Governments who also attended the show were Sir Alexander Bustamante, Rt. Hon. Norman Manley, Rt. Hon. Hugh Shearer, Sir Donald Sangster, Rt. Hon. Michael Manley, Rt. Hon. Edward Seaga, The Most. Hon. P.J Patterson, Most Hon. Portia Simpson Miller and Most Hon. Bruce Golding have all supported and assisted in the promotion of this historical event.

RESEARCHERS’ NEWS

16 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2015

Bark Beetle - a new pest affecting coconut

By Dr. Wayne Myrie, Plant Pathologist/Molecular Biologist Coconut Industry Board

he Ambrosia bark beetle (Xyleborus ferrugineus Fabricius and Xyleborus volvulus Fabricius), known as an insect pest of wood, was found in the trunk of a coconut tree in Hayes, Corn Piece in Clarendon, and in Ramble, Hanover. The beetle was also found in the dry nuts and jellies respectively. They weakened coconut trees are most susceptible to infestation. The adults are generally brown to black and small in size, measuring 2-3 mm. They are approximately 1.9 times as long as wide and have an oblong shape. When viewed from above, the head is concealed by the prothorax. The life cycle is simple and involves the following stages: Adult, Egg, Larvae and Pupae. The adult flies and bores holes into the trees. Eggs are laid in tunnels and the resulting larvae will bore outwards from the tunnel where they are born. Both the larvae and adults bore into the stems of the coconut tree. The beetle is not eating the trunk, dry nuts or jellies for survival. Experts say it is using these as media for the cultivation of the fungal symbionts. In the first case found in Hayes, Clarendon, the beetle seems to be living in nutritional symbiosis with Fusarium sp.

The adult Ambrosia bark beetle The following are general recom- •Actions taken to sensitized the farming mendations for prevention and control: community about bark beetle •Keeping coconut palms healthy can min- •Brochures about the bark beetle were disimize infestations tributed at the Coconut. •Severe dry conditions increase the risk of attack by bark beetle •Pheromone traps can be used to monitor adult activity and disrupt the mating and egg-laying of the beetle •Ultraviolet black light traps may be used to monitor adult insects, which are drawn to the light and die in the bucket •Infested nuts should be removed and burned •Malathion can be used to spray the trunk and crown of the infested coconut trees •Do not remove infested nuts from the field and send elsewhere; this will spread the inPowdery material at festation to other farms.

the base of the trunk

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What are Aphids?

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What Are Aphids? phids seem to find their way into every garden. They are small, softbodied insects that can survive in almost any zone. Aphids multiply quickly, so try to control them before reproduction starts. Many generations can occur in one season. The good news is that they tend to move rather slowly and are relatively easy to control. Identifying Aphids Aphids are tiny (about 1/32” to 1/8”), and often invisible to the naked eye. Various species can appear white, black, brown, gray, yellow, light green, or even pink! Some may have a waxy or woolly coating. They have pear-shaped bodies with long antennae; the nymphs look similar to adults. Most species have two short tubes (called cornicles) projecting from their hind end. Adults are usually wingless, but most species can develop a winged form when populations become crowded, so that when food quality suffers, the insects can travel to other plants, reproduce, and start a new colony. Aphids usually feed in large groups, although you might occasionally see them singly or in small numbers. Aphid Damage Nymphs and adults feed on plant juices, attacking leaves, stems, buds, flowers, fruit, and/or roots, depending on species. Most especially like succulent or new growth.

Aphid

Some, such as the green peach aphid, feed on a variety of plants, while others, such as the rosy apple aphid, focus on one or just a few plant hosts. Look for misshapen, curling, stunted, or yellow leaves. Be sure to check the undersides of leaves, aphids love to hide there. If the leaves or stems are covered with a sticky substance, that is a sign that aphids may have been sipping sap. The honeydew, a sugary liquid produced by the insects as waste, can attract other insects, such as ants, which gather the substance for food. When aphids feed on trees, their honeydew can drop onto cars, outdoor furniture, driveways, etc. The honeydew can sometimes develop a fungal growth called sooty mold, causing branches and leaves to appear black. Aphids feeding on flowers or fruit can cause them to become distorted. Some aphid species cause galls to form on roots or leaves. Aphids may transmit viruses to certain plants, and also attract other insects that prey on them.

How to Get Rid of Aphids Try spraying cold water on the leaves, sometimes all aphids need is a cool blast to dislodge them. Use commercially available biological controls or by spraying with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. You can often get rid of aphids by wiping or spraying the leaves of the plant with a mild solution of water and a few drops of dishwashing detergent such as Ivory. Stir together 1 quart of water, 1 tsp of liquid dish soap and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Do not dilute before spraying on plants. In a spray bottle combine 2 parts rubbing alcohol, 5 parts water, and 1 tablespoon liquid soap. Organic controls include alcohol spray (isopropyl alcohol, straight or diluted), soapy emulsion (can be mixed w/alcohol), horticultural oil (read the directions) and pyrethrum spray. Soapy water/alcohol should be reapplied every 2-3 days for 2 weeks. You can also purchase beneficial insects, such as lady beetles and parasitic wasps, which will feed on aphids. These are usually ordered via mail—check the Internet for labs. Bring beneficial insects to your garden by adding plants that attract them. For example, nasturtiums are a good plant to rid your garden of aphids.

AUGUST 2015 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 17

Farmers Almanac 2016

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Why The Netherlands Just Banned Monsanto’s Glyphosate-Based Herbicides

18 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2015

he Netherlands has just become the latest country, following Russia, Mexico, and many others, to say no to Monsanto. The sale and use of glyphosate-based herbicides (the most commonly used herbicides in the world) has just been banned for non-commercial use in the country, effective later this year. This means that people will no longer be able to spray RoundUp on their lawns and gardens and will instead have to find another (hopefully more natural) means of pest control. This is definitely a step in the right direction. The move comes as no surprise, considering that the number of countries around the world who are choosing to ban this product is growing at an exponential rate. Bans and restrictions are being implemented due to the fact that glyphosate (the main ingredient in RoundUp) has been directly linked to several major health issues, including: birth defects, nervous system damage, Alzheimers, Parkinson’s, various forms of cancer, and kidney failure. (Sri Lanka recently cited deadly kidney disease as their reason for banning his product. You can read more about that and access the research here.) Indeed, The World Health Organization recently acknowledged the fact that glyphosate can cause cancer. There are also multiple environmental concerns associated with the use of this chemical. What’s even more disturbing is the fact that studies have shown that RoundUp herbicide is over 100 times more toxic than regulators claim. For example, a new study published in the journal Biomedical Research International shows that Roundup herbicide is 125 times more toxic than its active ingredient, glyphosate, studied in isolation. The eye opening abstract reads as follows: “Pesticides are used throughout the world as mixtures called formulations. They contain adjuvants, which are often kept confidential and are called inerts by the manufacturing companies, plus a declared active principle, which is usually tested alone. We tested the toxicity of 9 pesticides, comparing active principles and their formulations, on three human cell lines. Glyphosate, isoproturon, fluroxypyr, pirimicarb, imidacloprid, acetamiprid, tebuconazole, epoxiconazole, and prochloraz constitute, respectively, the active principles of 3 major herbicides, 3 insecticides, and 3 fungicides. Despite its relatively benign reputation, Roundup was among the most toxic herbicides and insecticides tested. Most importantly, 8 formulations out of 9 were up to one thousand times more toxic than their active principles. Our results challenge the relevance of the acceptable daily intake for pesticides because this norm is calculated from the toxicity of the active principle alone.

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Chronic tests on pesticides may not reflect relevant environmental exposures if only one ingredient of these mixtures is tested alone.” Equally disturbing is the fact that RoundUp has been found in a very high percentage of air and rainfall test samples. Significant concentrations of it have also been found in the urine of people across Europe.

One recent study published in the Journal of Environmental & Analytical Toxicology has now proven that animals and humans who consume GMO foods – those that are loaded with glyphosate chemicals, the main ingredient in Monsanto’s RoundUp – have extremely high levels of glyphosate in their urine. It’s also noteworthy to mention that there are Wikileaks documents showing

how the United States planned to “retaliate and cause pain” on countries who were refusing GMOs. It’s troubling to think that so many children are within proximity of and playing on lawns that have been sprayed with this stuff. Cancer is not a mystery, it is not a stroke of bad luck, it’s time for the world to wake up and realize what research has been confirming for years.

Integrated pest management

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AUGUST 2015 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 19

Published by RADA NTEGRATED PEST management (IPM) is a safer approach to pest control. It uses a mix of methods to reduce crop damage by pests, helpful creatures to the ecosystem and the environment, i.e., soil, water and air. Pesticides are to be used as a last resort. Problems with pesticides include: More serious pest problems Danger to health Export market problems Less farm profits Polluted soil, water, air. How does IPM work? In IPM, the farmer uses a greater knowledge of nature, soil, water, climate, creatures and plants to make it easy for crops to flourish but hard for pests. Harmful pesticides are to be used only when needed. This brings better crops, less pest problems and man and the environment stay healthier. Cultural practices Normal field work is used to make field conditions best for the crop and worst for pests. Plant at a place and time for early, strong crop growth and to avoid heavy pest attack. Prepare land early and properly, to destroy soil pests and allow proper root growth.

Use pest-free planting material. Protect plants in the nursery (using screens) from insects which carry disease, e.g., viruses. Check plants at least weekly for any problems. Space, prune and stake plants to reduce overcrowding and disease build-up. Reap on time to escape pest damage Reap with care to reduce bruises and rots. Keep some weeds that beneficials feed on around fields.

How to prevent Ginger Rhizome rot, Pt II The following tips were provided by the Public Relations and Communications Department of the Rural Agriculture Development Authority. www.rada.gov.jm. The most important measure for prevention of disease is the use of healthy planting material. Fields should have good drainage or raised beds to ensure that rhizomes are not exposed to prolonged wetness. Do not plant ginger in the same field if rhizome rot was detected during the previous crop. Know how to identify healthy plants They should be robust, have healthy roots. The rhizomes should be well filled, without shrinkage and spots. Rhizome 'eyes' should not be watery. The field must be inspected regularly for early detection and removal of plants displaying symptoms of leaf spot and wilt. Mark healthy, disease-free plants in the field when the crop is 6-8 months old and still green. For the planting of the next crop, select the best rhizomes, free from pest and disease from the marked plants. Do not rely only on visual selection of rhizomes after harvesting. Disease can present in seed pieces without any external symptoms.

Handle planting material carefully to avoid damage. Examine the stored rhizomes at monthly intervals and remove the rhizomes that show signs of rotting. This will help to keep the inoculum level low. It is advisable to plant smaller pieces of rhizome. Treatment of badly diseased rhizomes is not effective. Foliar application of approved fungicides might be necessary to prevent the spread of diseases from plant to plant when conditions are highly favourable for disease development. Jamaican ginger is consumed locally as well as exported to different external markets. Therefore, farmers should become aware of pesticide residues and use only approved chemicals to ensure global foodsafety standards and the integrity of Jamaican ginger. This information can be obtained from the extension officer or directly from the Export Division, Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Biological control In nature many creatures kill pests. Some of these natural enemies or beneficials are very small and hard to see; farmers often mistake others for pests. Improper pesticide use helps pests to proliferate by killing their natural enemies. It also helps pests become resistant to pesticides. The three types of beneficials are parasitoids, predators and pathogens. Sometimes, beneficials kill pests even better than pesticides, e.g., a ladybeetle and wasp used in the eastern Caribbean to control pink mealybug. Countries thereby save money and protect health and the environment. Parasitoids (parasites) are usually smaller than the pest. They search for pests, eggs or young and lay eggs on or inside them. The young parasite feeds and

How to prevent Ginger Rhizome rot

grows inside the pest, killing it. Predators are usually larger than the pest. Each predator catches and eats many pest eggs, young and adults. Examples: Ladybeetles, young lacewing flies, spiders, some mites, assassin bugs, ground beetles, common wasps, some bird bats. Pathogens are germs, fungi, viruses and bacteria that make pests sick. They are spread by wind, water, soil and on plant parts/pests. Small farmers in other countries make spray from diseased insects and use it to kill pests. Some plants resist pests naturally. Scientists also develop varieties that bear well, even when attacked.

Bio-rationals Insects are drawn towards substances called pheromones. Pheromones are used in traps to catch pests, reduce breeding, prevent pest build-up and check fields for pest. Biological pesticides kill pests and protect beneficials. Fungus and virus germs are also used in this way. Botanical insecticides are made from plants. IPM rules for pesticide use: 1. First know what problem is affecting the crop. 2. If a pesticide is needed, use the safest one to man, beneficials and the environment that will work. For example, most

bio-rationals and some of the new products on the market. 3. Read and follow the label. 4. Measure the right amount and mix properly. 5. Where possible, use poison baits instead of sprays. 6. If insects/mites/slugs are only in small sections of a field, treat only those sections. 7. If spraying, use the right sprayer and nozzle for the job. 8. Use a hollow cone for insecticides, fungicides. 9. Use a flood jet or fan jet for herbicides. 10. As far as possible, spray insecticides in the late evenings. 11. Never throw pesticides/containers in or near streams or rivers 12. Do not reap produce before the period written on the label, the pre-harvest interval. 13. Lock pesticides safely away from children and other unauthorised persons. 14. Avoid direct contact with pesticides. Important benefits of IPM Healthier people; Less crop damage; Bigger better harvests; More exports; More farm profits; Cleaner environment

Information submitted by the RADA Communications Department and prepared by the division of Technology Training and Technical Information RADA. For further information call 1-888-ASK-RADA

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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

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AUGUST 2015 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 21

Revitalization of the Dairy Sector

The Dairy Sector Revitalization Programme has given critical support to the industry since its launch in 2008.

PROJECT FOCUS Making available low cost loans and grants to farmers through the DBJ/PC Bank network for working capital support. LOAN COMPONENT Beef and dairy farmers have benefited from loans totaling $64 M for pasture development; purchasing breeding stock; and upgrading farm equipment.

CAPACITY BUILDING COMPONENT Assistance provided through farmers’ organizations include: The re-introduction of a National Milk Recording Programme in collaboration with the Jamaica Hope Cattle Breeders’ Society; Allocationof mastitis testing kits and computers to aid participating farmers in National Milk Recording Programme.

GRANT SUPPORT PROGRAMME Assist in building local capacity in Embryo Transfer Technique; Capacity building support to BDPAJ in the development of an operational plan for the management of cluster farms and engagement of preproject consultancy; Initiation of a collaborative research project with UWI, St Augustine to develop an island-wide nutritional profile of Jamaica pastures, upgrade the Forage Analytical Laboratory at Bodles; and Approval of grants funding to enable restoration of milk collection facility at Rhymesfield Cooperative. Support the establishment of a milk testing reference laboratory at the Bodles Research Station. For further information contract:

JAMAICA DAIRY DEVELOPMENT BOARD Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries Hope Gardens, Kingston 6

Tel: (876) 618-7107 • Fax (876)977-9230 • Email: dairyboard@moa.gov.jm

Tips For Reducing Salt In Your Diet NutriCare

22 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2015

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hen it comes to dietary sodium, less is certainly best, yet Americans today consume 50% more than the recommended daily quantities of sodium. Diets high in sodium increase blood pressure levels. High blood pressure damages the kidneys over time, and is a leading cause of kidney failure. To help Americans reduce salt intake to the ideal one teaspoon per day, the National Kidney Foundation offers 10 tips to reduce sodium in your diet. To help Americans reduce salt intake to the ideal one teaspoon per day, the National Kidney Foundation and Council of Renal Nutrition member Linda Ulrich offer 10 tips to reduce sodium in your diet. 1. Use fresh, rather than packaged, meats. Fresh cuts of beef, chicken or pork contain natural sodium, but the content is still much less than the hidden extra sodium added during processing in products like bacon or ham. If a food item keeps well in the fridge for days or weeks, that's a tip off that the sodium content is too high. 2. Choose fresh fruit and vegetables, as well, since they are very low in sodium. Canned and frozen fruits are also low in sodium.

Gloria Bent, MS, RD, CDN - Nutritionist Questions &Comments

gloria.bent@gmail.com

4. Compare various brands of the same food item until you find the one that has the lowest sodium content, since this will vary from brand to brand. 5. Select spices or seasonings that do not list sodium on their labels, i.e. choose garlic powder over garlic salt. 3. When buying frozen vegetables, choose those that are labeled "fresh frozen" and do not contain added seasoning or sauces.

3. Begin reading food labels as a matter of course. Sodium content is always listed on the label. Sometimes the high sugar content in a product like apple pie can mask the high sodium content so it's important to check every label for sodium content.

6. Before dining out, do your research. Visit the restaurant's website which should list the sodium content of various dishes served there. Alternatively, when you're at the restaurant and ready to order, you can request that the dish be served without salt. 7. Beware of products that don't taste especially salty but still have high sodium content, such as cottage cheese.

8. If you have elevated blood pressure, dietary sodium restriction can not only lower your blood pressure, but can enhance your response to blood pressure medications. 9. Salt preference is an acquired taste that can be unlearned. It takes about 6-8 weeks to get used to eating food with much lower quantities of salt, but once it's done, it's actually difficult to eat foods like potato chips because they taste way too salty. Spice Up Your Diet without Salt Courtesy of The National Kidney Foundation www.kidney.org/

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24 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2015