The agriculturalist (denbigh) august 2016

Ag Gets New Boards

VOL. 26 NO. 4 • AUGUST 2016

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By Patrick Maitland Editor-The Agriculturalist

lmost five months since the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) took office, the appointment of chairs and directors for several commodity boards and agencies under the new super Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Agriculture is almost complete. During the past six weeks, Minister Karl Samuda has issued more than 100 appointment letters to agriculturalists, farmers, lawyers, social workers, teachers, educators and entrepreneurs.

They hail from government agencies serving the agricultural and farming sector.

With the exception of Hugh Graham, an agricultural project development specialist, CEO of the Jamaica Dairy Development Board, and chairman of the Agricultural Credit Board for the past nine years, all other chairmen were serving for the first time.

Genille Attalla, a Trelawny-based businesswoman who becomes the second woman to hold the post after the retired company executive Mable Tenn, is now chairing the Rural Agricultural Development Authority, the government’s chief agricultural extension agency.

Veterinarian and former JLP member of parliament, Dr. St. Aubyn Bartlett, chairs the veterinary board, while senior agricultural economist and executive director of the Jamaica Productivity Centre, Dr. Charles Douglas, chairs the Jamaica 4H Clubs.

Other appointments include: Agronomist and general manager of the All-island Banana Growers’ Association, Donald Elvey, the Jamaica Dairy Development Board; Economist/trade specialist Sylburn Thomas, the Coffee Industry Board; Ag economist and acting CEO of Agri Invest Corporation, Courtney Cole at Cocoa Industry Board; Associate professor and dean of the College of Natural and Applied Sci-

Hugh Graham Ag Credit Board

Genille Attalla RADA

Dr. St Aubyn Bartlett

Dr. Charles Douglas Jamaica 4H Clubs

Vet Board

Sylburn Thomas Coffee Board

Courtney Cole Cocoat Board

ences, Northern Caribbean University, Dr Vincent F. Wright at Fisheries Development Fund; Champion farmer and former

Donald Elvey Jamaica Dairy Board

Christopher Gentles Coconut Board

Dr Vincent Wright Fisheries Dev Fund

Jeffery Hall Banana Board

CEO of the Coffee Board Christopher Gentles, the Coconut Industry Board; and Jamaica Producers Group’s CEO and chairman of the Bank of Nova Scotia, Jeffery Hall chairs the Banana Board.

Attorney-at-Law Wentworth Charles chairs the SCJ Holdings Limited, while banker and government Senator Aubyn Hill, heads the National Irrigation Commission and Agri Invest Corporation.

RADA acting CEO Peter Thompson also sits on the board of SCJ Holdings. Up to press time, The Agriculturalist could not confirm the chairmanship of the Sugar Industry Authority.

SPECIAL FOCUS pages 12-18

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With coffee at record prices, this industry is poised for exponential growth!

Broiler farmers have achieved record production in the last few months! This will undoubtedly result in fewer imports of low grade chicken parts, which is good news for local farmers and the Jamaican economy.

Jamaican egg farmers have had a good year so far with increased egg output and continued self-sufficiency due to a vibrant industry.

Potato and onion farming have experienced a significant resurgence through the efforts of our Ministry of Agriculture and local farmers. Despite last year’s drought, vegetable and yam farmers have done very well.

Pig farmers are receiving good prices and meeting all the needs of the local pork market.

Such growth and development in the sector make us proud to be partners with the Ministry of Agriculture and Jamaica Agricultural Society. We salute our farmers, and urge them to continue Growing with Hi-Pro!

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Hutchinson launches guidelines for organic products

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JIS NEWS: he way has now been officially cleared for establishing an organic industry in Jamaica. This follows the launch on Wednesday, June 22 of the country’s organic standard which will guide organic production and provide clear guidelines for the declaration of products as “organic”.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at Woodford Market Garden near Peter’s Rock in St Andrew, Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, the Hon. J.C. Hutchinson endorsed the local organic certification.

Minister Hutchinson explained that the certification would allow for local trade in the short term, pending the strategy for the National Certification Body of Jamaica (NCBJ) to work with overseas partners to become internationally recognized as a certified body for organic products. Government will then seek to establish a Competent Authority, through regulations, under the Standards Act that will guide the operations of the organic industry.

“The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries is committed to facilitating the continued growth of the organic sector,” Minister Hutchinson said.

Meanwhile, executive director of the Bureau of Standard, Yvonne Hall, in her remarks, noted that the locally developed standard had evolved in to a regional standard to serve CARICOM.

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MY POINT (l-r) Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, JC Hutchinson discusses organic standards with James Rawle, chairman of the Standards Council of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica and Victor Cummings of the Standards and Certification Committee of the Jamaica Organic Agriculture Movement at the launch of National Organic Standards on June 22 at Woodford Market Garden in the hills of St Andrew.

The organic standard was developed over the past nine years under the leadership of the Bureau of Standards Jamaica (BSJ) working in collaboration with the NCBJ and internationally-trained inspectors from the Jamaica Organic Agriculture Movement (JOAM).

The organic industry is one of the fastest growing agricultural sectors glob-

ally with sales estimated at US$104b in 2015. It has been spurred mostly by the move to healthier lifestyles but the sector is plagued by problems relating to a lack of understanding among farmers and consumers about the term organic; false advertising of local and imported goods; tourism products being falsely labeled organic to attract tourists and false claims by

farmers, whose farms are not certified, competing unfairly with farmers whose farms are certified.

Organic is a labeling term that denotes products that have been produced in accordance with organic production standards and certified by a recognized certification body or authority.

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PEOPLE IN AGRICULTURE

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Dr. Charles Douglas

Executive Director, Jamaica Productivity Centre Chairman, Jamaica 4H Clubs

r. Douglas is the Executive Director of the Jamaica Productivity Centre. He is trained production economist and is a strong development specialist.

As head of the JPC, Dr. Douglas serves as productivity advocate, change management catalyst, researcher, and policy adviser.

His career has taken him through several fields, many countries encompassing three continents.

His most recent assignments included: Assistant Director - Research and Macroeconomic Programming Division, Bank of Jamaica; International Trade and Policy Analyst at the Washington, DC-based National Centre for Food and Agricultural Policy; and Senior Economist at the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute.

He holds a Doctorate in Production Economics and International Trade from the University of Florida; a M.Sc. degree in Resource Economics from the University of New England (New South Wales, Australia); and a foundation degree in Economics from McGill University (Québec, Canada).

His tertiary level training began at the former Jamaica School of Agriculture (J.S.A.) from which he graduated with an Honours Diploma in General Agriculture.

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Thompson is acting CEO, RADA

ollowing the departure of Lenworth Fulton as Chief Executive Officer - Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), the principal director –technical services RADA, Peter Thompson was on May 24, 2016 promoted to serve as acting CEO. Thompson has been described as “results-oriented, high-energy, hands-on professional, with a successful record of service in the Ministry of Agriculture; having completed two master degrees in business management, teaching (mathematics and statistics) and general agriculture as well as on-the-job training and experience in projects and operations management.

Peter Thompson Acting CEO, RADA

Major Kates chairs CASE board

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etired Commissioned Officer (Major) in the Jamaica Defence Force George Kates was recently appointed chairman of the board of directors, College of Agriculture, Science & Education (CASE).

Kates has over ten years of experience in the energy sector and joined the Jamaica Public Services team in 2003. His overall responsibilities includes Corporate Security, Loss Reduction, Occupational Health and Safety and Environmental Management.

He was the Director of Safety, Security and Occupational Health at Airports Authority of Jamaica.

Kates holds an ASC from the CASE; a B.Sc Management and Accounting from the University of the West Indies and a M.Sc in Corporate Security Management from the Cranfield University in the UK.

Major George Kates

The Greenhouse revolution “Eat what we grow…..Grow what we eat” Over the past five years Noranda Jamaica Bauxite Partners has been leading the charge to transform agriculture by sharing greenhouse technology and spearheading the building of over 120 greenhouses for small farmers in our mining areas.

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

Noranda Bauxite is the proud sponsor of the National Greenhouse Farmers Competition

EDITORIAL

Agriculture Sector 2030 Plan is not working!

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he Government of Jamaica has mandated the Planning Institute of Jamaica to lead preparation of a comprehensive long-term National Development Plan, which will seek to place Jamaica in a position to achieve developed country status by 2030.

An Agriculture Task Force that was established to guide the development of the plan began in January 2007, but only came to full operation in 2009.

Under the Agriculture Sector Plan, the vision is for the dynamic transformation of the Jamaican agricultural sector through a sustained, research-oriented, technological, market-driven and private sector-led revolution, which revitalizes rural communities, creates strong linkages with other sectors and emphatically repositions the sector in the national economy to focus on production of high-value commodities and contribute to national food security.

Almost a decade in operation, it would appear that the Agriculture Sector

2030 Plan has failed to bring about any positive impact on local agriculture as production output continues to decline and a lackluster overall performance.

Our research-oriented and technological facilities are in shambles as the physical plants, including the Bogle Research Centre, are deteriorating while research specimens are unprotected.

The researchers are depressed because they cannot have access to basic resources to carry out their jobs.

The indiscriminate importation of fresh farm produce and processed food is creating unfair competition for farmers because our ministers of agriculture are always issuing licenses without any careful assessment of the local market.

Because it is a very lucrative business to import most farm produce, our food import bill will continue to skyrocket.

Agriculture is not serious about creating strong linkages with other sectors, as there are no mechanisms in place to demand such co-operation. Plus, within the

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F Fo oc ca all P Po oiin nt t by PATRICK MAITLAND

Publisher -The Agriculturalist editor@theagriculturalist.com

sector, there are already much disunity and turf-protection that are affecting productivity.

Placing agriculture in the super ministry will not help the farmers, or solve the problem, but instead will expose the already fragile industry of fierce and direct competition for the limited resources available to the ministry.

We agree that the solution must include the focus on “production of highvalue commodities that contribute to

national food security.” This is big business that requires considerable investment and human resource capital to drive the operation.

Therefore, the government must demonstrate a commitment to the process -- to ensure protection for investors and the environment.

As a policy, for example, the government should stop the use of arable farmlands for housing and other non-farming business.

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

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THE CARIBBEAN SHORTAGE OF COCONUTS:

An opportunity for Jamaica

refer to an article written by Christopher Serju with regard to the fact that the Caribbean is running out of Coconuts, and the inability of the Caribbean to profitable take advantage the huge surge in global demand for Coconut products.

The Global consumer research agency Mintel estimates that the United States Market for Green Coconut Water (GCW) was estimated at US $ 1.36 Million in 2014, and this demand will grow by 25% per year to exceed US$ 4 Billion in 2019.

The demand for Extra-virgin coconut oil has skyrocketed, ever since researchers have discovered that the HDL cholesterol in Coconuts are actually good for your heart, joints and can even minimize the riak of Alzheimers; there has been a huge increase in demand for the product.

The Coconut Industries in the Caribbean has been plagued by significant economic diseases, such as lethal yellowing which destroyed almost 7 million Coconut trees between 2000 and 2008, the red ring of Coconut in Trinidad and Belize, Heart-rot or Citrus Wilt in Trinidad, and the Rhinoceros beetle in Jamaica. Climate Change which has brought on Hurricanes of increased ferocity and droughts of increased intensity, and fire has also significantly impacted upon the stock of coconut trees.

There are social plagues namely praedial larceny, which is currently the #1 deterrent to Coconut production in the Caribbean, and the rural urban drift due to demographic changes which make the appeal of a life of agriculture

By Christopher Gentles Chairman, Coconut Industry Board

unappealing to rural youth.

The ultimate truth is that we have not been replanting at the rate that we have been losing trees, and as a result the overwhelming majority of trees were planted prior to 1980, and therefore would have passed their best bearing years.

The Coconut Industry Board would have been a keen observer of this shift in conditions and is now significantly repositioning the Coconut Industry to take advantage of these increased prices for Coconuts.

It is estimated that we have 16,000 ha of Coconut trees, with the individual tree count estimated at 3,157,000 trees producing 98.5 million nuts per year. The Coconut Growers have made it very clear that they are dissatisfied with the seedling supply by the CIB, and there are many outsiders who have claimed that the Coconut Industry Board is a sleepy Commodity Board, and have basically written off the Industry.

However the Coconut Industry Board is a technically capable institution which has given the gift of the Maypan Coconut seedling and is currently working on the Braypan and several promising hybrids including a possibly fully resistant variety to lethal yellowing.

The Coconut industry has also presented to the World at the Asia Pacific Coconut Community conference the “Micheal Black Method “ of controlling the lethal yellowing.

We know that the planting of 100,000 ha of Coconuts, which translates to 8 million trees would only supply a small percentage in the Caribbean and local demand for Coconut and its by products.

The Coconut Board estimates that at a cost of J$ 150,000 per acre including roads and planting a Thorn barrier and fencing, an investor could make a substantial return per acre of 41% per year on his investment in US$, if the investment was vertically integrated.

There are two risks that the Coconut farmer/investor faces of praedial larceny and lethal yellowing that would have to be mitigated in a very meticulous way. The CIB recommends the Michael Black method of dealing with the lethal yellowing , which involves weekly and digilent monitoring of the plantation If this was coupled with competent Agribusiness opportunities , such as the export and local supply of Green Coconut water in tetrapaks, the packing of cold-pressed Coconut oil, the development of nutraceuticals such as Coconut Oil capsules with Vitamins,

activated carbon from the Coconut shells, and Coir for use in plant nurseries and for the ,production of space age light weight automobile parts.

The Coconut Industry Board is currently has on the planning board for the Caribbean’s largest nursery to fill this demand locally and in the Caribbean, subject to the agreement of the Board. If approved and executed, we can significantly increase the amount of quality planting material available in the island, so farmers and investors in Jamaica and the Caribbean can plan and depend upon the Coconut Industry Board over the next ten years to consistently supply the highest quality of seedlings at a very affordable price.

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

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Response to Auditor General’s Report on the Audit of the Cane Expansion Fund

Dear editor: The Sugar Industry Authority wishes to reiterate that:

(SIA)

1.The Cane Expansion Fund (CEF) is administered by the Sugar Industry Authority on behalf of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries (MICAF). It is to be noted that loan funds from the CEF are disbursed directly to suppliers of good and services and not directly to borrowers unless they are suppliers themselves.

2.At no time to the best of our knowledge was anyone granted a loan from the CEF without the following: a)A completed loan application form, included a business plan; b)Approval by the CEF Loans Committee recorded in the Minutes of meetings. It is to be noted that there is disagreement between the Auditor General’s Department and the CEF as to whether the Minutes of the CEF Committee constitute the loan approval or other administrative documents (Approval memo) of the CEF; c)Progress Reports from Field Officers for goods and services supplied to the borrower and for which payment is due from the CEF.

3.It is to be noted that a record of all loans and grants made by the CEF appear on the

accounting system of the CEF for purposes of deducting loan repayment from borrower’s cane proceeds. These records include all loans to entities which the Auditor General claimed were not approved.

4.You are requested to note that it was never the policy of the CEF to deny any applicant a loan or grant based on their place of employment. Loans were made based on the applicant’s access to lands and the capacity to cultivate cane sustainably.

I am, GI Callaghan Chief Executive Office Sugar Industry Authority

Jamaica to resume exporting mangoes to UK

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amaica is to resume exporting mangoes to the United Kingdom this year after voluntarily suspending exports in 2014 when there was a spike in detentions due to pest contamination.

Speaking in London, England earlier this week, Dermon Spence, Chief Technical Director in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, announced that mango exports to the UK would resume on a phased basis by the end of the year.

The forum brought sellers and regulators together for a better understanding of the UK’s phyto-sanitary requirements for plants and produce crossing its borders.

St. Elizabeth councillor requests assistance for peanut farmers

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he Ministry of Agriculture is being urged to turn its attention to peanut farmers in St. Elizabeth.

Leighton Smith, councillor for the Myersville Division in St. Elizabeth, has said the peanut farmers in his division need assistance in securing a better market for their crop.

In an interview with RJR News, Mr. Smith said not only are the farmers unable to find markets, but the price being

DERMON SPENCE

offered is below production cost. He said, over the last two years, the farmers have had to battle drought and the high cost of production.

Councillor Smith said, additionally, the market is being affected by a flood of imported peanuts.

He said sometime ago, it was suggested that provisions would have been made through 4-H clubs, but this has not materialised.

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AUGUST 2016 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 9

Sapphire Agriculture blends and packages NPK compound blends!

apphire Agriculture packages NPK chemical blends. Sapphire Agriculture sells 100% certified organic NPK fertilizer pellets and granules.

We also package and sell individual Raw Materials: Urea, DAP, MAP, MOP, Sulphate of Ammonia, etc.

Our compound NPK blends incorporate Organic Matter, and any other micronutrients as per customer requests.

We also blend fertilizer for Private Label distributors.

We can formulate and create any NPK blend. We use Urea, DAP, MOP of very good quality from reputable points of origin.

We can add Certified Organic NPK fertilizer and micronutrients as per the request of the customer.

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10:5:20, 12:6:8, 16:6:6, 24:10:20, 13:13:21, 21:13:21 14:28:14, 14:5:32, 12:8:18, 11:22:22, Sapphire NPK blends receive between 16:9:18, 16:8:24, 12:5:15, 12:6:10, 12:8:24, 5% – 20% of Organic Mater in the mix.

12:12:17, 12:12:14, 12:24:12, 12:12:24, 15:5:34, 15:4:30, 15:5:20, 20:5:20, 20:20:20, For example, Sapphire’s most popular 20:10:10, 10:10:20, 10:20:10, 18:0:18, 17:0:17, 20:0:30 30:0:15, 30:5:15, 4:3:3, 3:2:3, blend 15:15:15 has 400Lb (20%) of 4:3:3 granulated processed Organic Matter derived 7:2:2, etc. and others. from chicken litter, or a more gentle term; Organic Matter/per 2,000 pound ton.

OTHER AVAILABLE FERTILIZER: We always blend OM with Urea, DAP, NUTRITIONALS /LIQUID FERTILIZMOP and small amounts of calcium filler in ERS some blends to produce superior High Quality SURFACTANTS NPK fertilizer.

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Still the finest agricultural event in Jamaica Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show

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BY NORMAN GRANT

President, JAS and Chair, Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show Committee

he Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show is the signature “Family Friendly Agricultural ” event of the summer of 2016 stage by the Jamaica Agricultural Society in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and agencies including RADA and Jamaica 4 H, featuring great food and entertainment, absorbing competitions, the exposition of cutting edge technology in agriculture and industry and the great atmosphere of fun and celebration that permeates the Denbigh showground and the township of May Pen. The show is now in its 64th staging, and with upwards of 70,000 patrons at the previous show, has established itself as the premier Agricultural show in the Caribbean and the Western Hemisphere.

This year the promoters, JAS is working with main sponsors HIPRO , DIGICEL and other sponsors have designed an even more exciting three days for patrons, and are looking to see over 100,000 patrons during the three days. We are also projecting that the show this year will generate over $1 billion for the Jamaican economy and will have a positive and directly impact on the economy of May Pen and Clarendon.

The show begins on July 30, at 9am and closes on August 1, at approximately 10 pm. Between those times patrons will check their health at the wellness centre, be fascinated by the variety of over 250 display booths, including new ones such as KFC and St Jago Farm Stores , over 500 livestock to include, cattle, sheep and goats, the largest number of entry ever in the history of the show.

The young people will get critical career information, entertainment and fun at the Youth in Agriculture hub, where they can win prizes and scholarships.

In close integration with our theme: Eat what we grow, grow what we eat: through climate smart agriculture, the green hub will once again be a highlight of Denbigh 64.

Patrons will be exposed to various ideas and technologies to militate against, adapt and develop resilience to negative climatic events.

JOAM in association with the Jamaica Diaspora Agriculture Taskforce will be putting on a spellbinding show for the pleasure and education of patrons, the Denbigh Symposium.

EXHIBITORS AND SPONSORS:

President, Jamaica Agricultural Society and chairman of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show Committee Norman Grant (6th l) poses with exhibitors and sponsors of the show during its official launching ceremony held last month at the Hi Pro Farm Center, White Marl, St. Catherine.

The three days of Denbigh 64 will provide variety in focus for our patrons. The first day is Youth in Agriculture day, youths will be the primary activities during the day.

The competitions section will be

highlighted by a business plan competition and a youtube channel competition, with both areas aligned to agribusiness.

Working with the sub-theme My Dream..Agripreneur. young

persons will have the opportunity to entire a variety of competitions and experience various exhibitions, from CASE, Knox Community College, NCU, Ebony Park Academy and many schools and institu-

tions. The day will be highlighted by the presence of the Minister of Industry, commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries. The finale is the coronation of the National Farm Queen for 2016.

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The finest of agricultural traditions in Jamaica

congratulate the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) on the sixty-fourth staging of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show.

I also extend a special welcome to patrons and in particular overseas visitors who are joining us for this marquee event on the JAS annual calendar.

The Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show celebrates the finest of agricultural traditions in Jamaica. Its staging is eagerly anticipated by farmers and agro-producers as, for a few days, ‘Denbigh’ places the spotlight on the value of local products and the contribution of agriculture-based communities to national development.

The event also offers a viable market for exhibitors and provides farmers and agro-processors with an opportunity to explore new agro-business initiatives that can generate additional wealth for Jamaica, and in particular rural communities.

Agriculture is the bedrock of the Jamaican economy, with the sector boasting some of the best food products in the world.

It is for this reason that further efforts must be made to advance its transformation into an industry that meets local demands, fuels the export sector and facilitates research and scientific development.

Still, there is no denying that Jamaicans have an appetite for imported products.

I therefore commend the Jamaica Agricultural Society for introducing the ‘Eat Jamaican’ campaign more than a decade ago.

The campaign is an affirmation of our local produce and our farmers are to be commended for the high quality produce which they continue to supply.

I extend my best wishes for a successful staging of Denbigh 2016 and urge all Jamaicans to ‘Grow What We Eat…Eat What We Grow’ and contribute to the creation of a world-class agriculture sector in Jamaica.

In support of national food security

The Denbigh Agricultural Show remains one of the most worthwhile initiatives of the Jamaica Agricultural Society to showcase the quality of our locally grown produce and celebrate our farmers for their invaluable contributions to national development.

Now in its 64th year, the show continues to grow and diversify to meet the needs of farmers and the general populace as well as highlight the individual and national achievements in agriculture and its related sectors.

I commend the strides that the Jamaica Agricultural Society has made in the areas of national food security and reducing the food import bill and extend heartfelt congratulations to their dedicated team that has

By Patrick Allen Governor General- Jamaica

successfully organized the year’s staging of the agricultural and industrial show.

Despite the many challenges, agriculture remains one of the most resilient and dynamic sectors of the Jamaican economy and one of the greatest contributors to economic growth and job creation.

We therefore thank the JAS and our hardworking farmers for their tenacity and urge you to remain resolute in supporting economic growth and productivity in Jamaica.

As you host this year’s staging of the Denbigh Agricultural and Industrial show, I hope that the show’s achievement will continue to exceed expectations and wish you continued success for years to come.

A great commitment to Jamaica’s farmers I extend congratulations to the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) for the staging of the 64th Denbigh, Agricultural, Industrial & Food Show.

The JAS has demonstrated great commitment to Jamaica’s farmers, industrial supply merchants and householders in its diligent and meticulous planning and hosting of this show over the past 64 years.

The Denbigh Show is now an established event on the national calendar of activities and is among the preferred experiences to be enjoyed around the time of the annual Emancipation and Independence celebrations.

Each year Denbigh is keenly anticipated by a range of persons and organisations operating in the agricultural and industrial sectors as well as by the wider Jamaican public.

By Andrew Michael Holness Prime Minister

By Portia Simpson Miller Leader of the Opposition

Despite the many challenges that they face, Jamaica’s farmers especially, have show great resilience, fortitude and positive out-

look in producing, displaying and selling the very best of their products at Denbigh.

The show is also an excellent opportunity for the purveyors of various important services critical for farming, food preparation, processing and many other types of small business, to engage their clients and meet prospective clients.

Agriculture continues to be vital for Jamaica’s long term growth and for the success and development of the Jamaican nation and people. The Denbigh Show provides another prime opportunity to remind all stakeholders and the general population of the how crucial the sector remains for our country.

I wish the JAS, farmers, other exhibitors, all participants and patrons, a successful show for 2016. Again, congratulations and best wishes!

FARM TIP Keep animals in good health. An animal in pain and discomfort can react aggressively.

Treat farm animals with respect. If understand their behavior, you’ll be ready for their actions.

DENBIGH HISTORY

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he 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.

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A stellar event on the annual national calendar

t is my sincere pleasure to join with all of Jamaica in celebrating the 64th Anniversary of the Denbigh Agricultural, Industrial and Food Show. This is scheduled to be held July 30-August 1, 2016 and thus climaxes, as it does, with the nation’s commemoration of Emancipation, while heralding our Independence Day celebrations on August 6.

Denbigh, unequivocally, represents a fine Jamaican tradition of iconic proportions. As a stellar event on the annual national calendar, Denbigh celebrates agriculture and showcases the achievements of our farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural and affiliated sectors. It is also a family entertainment event, catering to a wide cross-section of Jamaicans.

Denbigh is also a critical forum for taking stock of the status of agriculture in relation to its contribution to the national economy and for identifying innovative approaches to growing and expanding the sector.

This year, against the background of the imperative to expand the country’s agro-industrial thrust, Denbigh must also help to make the clarion call that agricul-

chain. A full-fledged agro-industry requires expansion into valueadded production and the time has come in Jamaica for us to make that critical transition into increased value-added production.

It is, therefore, in the spirit of a committed resolve to expand our agro-industrial thrust and

Karl Samuda, CD, MP Minister of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries

ture is at the nexus of the linkages that hold the critical sectors of industry and commerce together and that the deepening of these synergies are critical to building Jamaica’s pathway to economic prosperity.

The expansion of the agroindustrial sector is critical to the future of Jamaica. History will show that wealth creation and the prosperity of nations have been achieved through the development of industries by moving agricultural output up the value

with the recognition that the fortunes of our country are deeply rooted in the opportunities in the agricultural industry, that I hail the farmers, entrepreneurs and all industry stakeholders who are partnering to make Denbigh 64 a landmark event.

At the same time, and in accordance with the theme of this

year’s show, let us use the occasion of Denbigh to remind ourselves that Jamaica must, indeed, continue to pursue the goals of import substitution by growing what we eat and eating what we grow, and this, in the context of practising climate smart agriculture.

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AUGUST 2016 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 15

National Farm Queen PetaGaye Stewart (c) poses with Tanyalee Paul (Ms. Clarendon) and Jody-Ann Bailey (Ms. St. Thomas) during the 2015 Farm Queen competition held at Denbigh Showgrounds, May Pen, Clarendon.

Boy and Girl of the Year 2016:

4-H Boy and Girl of the Year 2016 Patrick Morris of Port Antonio High and Shevone Smith, of Montego Bay High, pose with their trophies shortly after being accorded the prestigious titles at the Jamaica 4-H Clubs National Achievement Expo which took place at the Denbigh Agricultural Showground on April 29. In addition to their trophies and prizes of tablets and smart phones from SINGER and FLOW respectively, they were also awarded, courtesy of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture & Fisheries, (MICAF),One Million Dollars (J$1M) each to assist with their education and professional pursuits.

The announcement was made by MICAF Minister, Hon. Karl Samuda.

The monetary prize will be awarded to future 4-H Boys & Girls of the Year. Shevone aspires to become an Entrepreneur, while Patrick who has already created his own herbicide will be pursuing studies in Agriculture at the College of Agriculture, Science & Education.

Organic Farming Pays Big at Denbigh

F

CLARENDON, Jamaica: armers in Jamaica are called to compete in the first Champion Organic/Sustainable Farmer Competition at the 64th Annual Denbigh Agricultural, Industry and Food Show in July 2016 with prizes totaling $130,000.

The Jamaica Diaspora Agriculture Task Force (JDAT) is sponsoring the first Champion Organic/Sustainable Farmer Competition at Denbigh in partnership with JAS, the Jamaica Agricultural Society, JOAM, the Jamaica Organic Agriculture Movement, and SOURCE Farm Ecovillage.

The competition is intended to promote organic and sustainable agriculture practices by showcasing farmers who are already utilizing organic farming practices. The organic farming competition will raise awareness and increase the number of farmers interested in organic farming.

“The demand for organic produce is growing at an accelerated pace worldwide. The organic produce market in the U.S. is $30+B and globally it’s $80B,” said Kimone Gooden, Jamaica Diaspora Agriculture Task Force Board Member. “Organic produce fetches a premium price compared to conventional produce. The high demand and low supply reduces competition, not to mention the

positive benefits for our health and the environment. Jamaican farmers have a huge opportunity to capitalize on this demand.”

Farmers who complete a free application by June 30, 2016 and who meet the entry requirements will be entered into the competition. Their farm will be judged on the organic and sustainable farming systems that are in place. Judges will look at seven categories when reviewing the farms including chemical free soil management, water management, diversity, nutrient management, pest management, postharvest management, and measures to avoid contamination.

The farmer who has the most sustainable farming system will receive $15,000 or an international organic certification valued around $100,000. The second prize is $10,000 or a local organic certification. The third place prize is $5,000 or training towards a local organic certification.

Candidates should submit the application, which is available for download online, by mail or by email. Applications should be submitted to the JAS Office, the closest RADA Office or emailed to, ChampionOrganicFarmer@gmail.c om. Further questions can be directed to JOAM at 564-3770 (Digicel) or 788-6713 (Flow).

16 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2016

Empowering our youth through the ‘Idle Hands, Idle Lands Initiative’

By Peta-Gaye R. Stewart National Farm Queen 2015 -----------------------------------amaica has many under utilized human and natural resources that if used appropriately can stimulate growth and development in our country.

As an Agricultural Ambassador and one who has great respect and appreciation for this noble profession, I believe that Jamaica’s future is dependent on how much we value Agriculture.

Young people especially those living in rural communities represent the future of Jamaica’s agricultural sector.

Unfortunately, many do not foresee a prosperous future for themselves in this field; they have a stereotyped vision that it is archaic, unprofitable and that it is for those who are uneducated; I wish to change that.

Even after my reign as National Farm Queen ends I still deem it part of my mandate to empower our youth through agriculture. I am on a quest to implement the “Idle Hands, Idle Lands Initiative” an initiative which aims to empower rural unattached youth by utilizing the available land resources around them for agricultural pursuits, transforming them into ‘agri-preneurs’ as they contribute to their personal growth and the development of their communities.

The initiative not only seek to change the negative perception that youth have of

J

PETA-GAYE R. STEWART TENDING TO HER CALF

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the sector but it will reduce youth unemployment, enhance social protection, promote wealth creation and rural agricultural development. Youth will be exposed to agricultural workshops and training, and linked with (idle) lands donated and/or leased by individuals/ organizations to engage them in agricultural production. The project fosters the ideals of the three ‘Es’: Environment, Education, and Employment.

There are vast amounts of unused/ unoccupied lands in Jamaica. The project seeks to utilize these idle hands and lands for personal, communal and agricultural development, while preserving the environment, providing employment, and promoting agricultural education.

Our youth are full of hope and energy and should be empowered to turn the tide to create a ‘new rural reality’ as they are very creative in exploring new opportunities.

Jamaica has an aging farming population, yet we have over 2.7 million people to feed daily. This justifies the need to integrate more youth in the agricultural sector. We must therefore continue to “Grow what we eat and eat what we grow” because if we have no farms, we have no food and if we have no food we have no future. Youth, our generation must lead the charge to grow and harvest a sustainable agricultural sector; we must do it now because Jamaica’s future depends on it!

PETA-GAYE R. STEWART NATIONAL FARM QUEEN 2015

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Meet our farm queen contestants 2016

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AUGUST 2016 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 19

Mining Minister tours greenhouses in Noranda mining areas M 20 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2016

inister of Transport and Mining Hon. Mike Henry has said he is impressed with the greenhouse agricultural farms being developed on Noranda Bauxite’s mining lands in St. Ann and has commended the farmers on their productivity and utilization of the new greenhouse technology.

The Minister was speaking on Thursday June 2 while on tour of two greenhouse clusters at Watt Town and Tobolski totaling a combined 40 houses.

The greenhouses have been built by the Jamaica Social Investment Fund(JSIF) and the Jamaica Bauxite Institute(JBI), in partnership with Noranda Bauxite, as part of a project to encourage farmers to maximize their agricultural production by investing in greenhouse technology on mined out bauxite lands.

JBI’s Executive Director Parris LyewAyee said that the partnership programme which commenced in 2015 envisions 160 greenhouses across the industry, with 60 already bult in Noranda’s mining areas at Watt Town, Tobolski and Nine Miles, and the project also underway at areas in Manchester, St. Elizabeth, and St. Catherine.

He said that the two greenhouse clusters at Watt Town and Tobolski have already produced over 45,000 lbs of sweet pepper and tomatoes from a combined 60 days of reaping.

Noranda’s General Manager Antoine Liddell pointed out that in addition to the 60 St. Ann houses Noranda has spearheaded another 50 houses at Burnt Ground and Water Valley since it started the pilot programme in 2009, while donating five houses to schools in the parish for use as part of their curriculum.

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Noranda General Manager Antoine Liddell, (left, forefront) makes a point to Mining Minister Mike Henry,(right) on tour of the Noranda/JBI/JSIF Greenhouse projects in St. Ann on June 2. Others behind the Minister, l-r, Vincent Thompson , (JSIF), Omar Sweeney, (JSIF), Parris Lyew-Ayee, (JBI).

Agricultural Science important to stimulating interest in STEM

“Youth including our 4-H Clubites should not look down on career choices such as farming, catering, welding, mechanics and catering,” he said.

Imploring the youngsters, he noted that careers such as these were necessary DR. RONALD BLAKE Executive Director, Jamaica 4-H Clubs

E

xecutive Director of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs Dr. Ronald Blake has issued a call to all interest groups to recognize the importance of agriculture as part of the campaign to stimulate learners’ interest in the concept of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, (STEM).

Speaking at a recent 4-H Clubs Camp Careers’ Day, he highlighted the role that STEM areas played in global transformation. “There is a critical need for them to be embraced in all spheres of Jamaica’s Development Agenda,” he said.

He added that Agriculture can be one of the most effective strategies to captivate the attention of the youth to STEM. “All STEM components are disaggregates of agriculture as a discipline and it is very easy for our learners to identify same,” he said.

Blake also commended the Ministry of Education Youth and Information for the rolling out of new initiatives for vocational education as well as the recent endorsement of the 4-H programmes in schools.

to fix the local youth unemployment problem.

The Jamaica 4-H Clubs, he said which currently boasts a membership of 105,291 registered clubites, has a captive group being trained to choose careers that will

fast track the realisation of Vision 2030.

Blake has been Executive Director of the Jamaica 4-H Clubs since 2013.

Send your opinions to editor@theagriculturalist.com

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AUGUST 2016 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 21

Rural Agricultural Development Authority Hope Gardens, Kingston 6, Jamaica, WI. Tel: 876-977-1158-64 • Fax: 876-970-4077 www.rada.gov.jm

22 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2016

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Small farmers being sidelined in legal ganja industry

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AUGUST 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ THE AGRICULTURALIST â&#x20AC;˘ 25

D

espite assurances from the Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA), there continues to be anxiety in the ganja farming community about the possibility of small farmers being sidelined by bigger operators.

The CLA has signed off on regulations that will result in the development of a legal ganja industry in Jamaica for medicinal, therapeutic and scientific purposes. The regulations will make provisions governing how licenses are granted, and the requirements.

Verald Vassell, Cannabis Licensing Authority Board member, acknowledged that the regulations have been made with provisions to protect small ganja farmers. He argued, however, that these attempts do not go far enough. He pointed to the cost of fencing and other processes required to get the farm operable, which will leave the small farmer at a disadvantage.

Cindy Lightbourne, Chairperson of the Board of the Cannabis Licensing Authority asserted that provisions in the regulations will protect small farmers, by making it less expensive to obtain licenses. She added that small farmers will be charged less for their licenses.

Lightbourne added that a public education campaign will begin soon about the regulations and to inform farmers about how they will be affected, "so that they themselves are integrally involved in understanding the process and so that we can aid them in the process as much as possible."

MILK EXPANSION:

Representatives of the Jamaica Dairy Development Board, led by newly appointed Chairman, Mr. Donald Elvey (centre), and including Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Hugh Graham (left) and Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Byron Lawrence (second left), view packaged milk in the cold room of the milk processing plant of the Jamaica Beverages Limited at Bog Walk, St. Catherine while on a recent visit. The plant, which producers the Dairy Farmers brand of milk, is in expansion mode resulting from increased milk production by dairy farmers assisted by the Dairy Board. Conducting the tour was Jamaica Beverages' Quality Assurance Manager Mr. Abdull Solam (2nd r) assisted by Mr. Rohan McKenzie, Quality Assurance Supervisor (5th r).

- Contributed Photo

Cane roads to be rehabilitated, says Samuda

Approximately 80 kilometres of cane roads have been earmarked for rehabilitation. Agriculture Minister Karl Samuda says provisions have been made under the Sugar Transformation Programme.

Samuda made the announcement on Tuesday during the closing of the 2016/2017

Sectoral Debate in Parliament.

According to Samuda, Cabinet has granted approval for just under $800 million to be spent on 80 kilometres of cane roads.

These include roads in the Worthy Park sugar dependent area of St. Catherine/Clarendon. A breakdown reveals

that close to $64 million has been earmarked for cane roads in those sectors. In the Monymusk sugar dependent region in Clarendon, approximately $71 million has been earmarked for five sections of Roads in Rhymesbury, and the Oscar Gordon - Garvey Maceo via Parnassus Boundary.

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26 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2016

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OUR MISSION

“To promote, foster, encourage and institute measures for the well-being of the banana and plantain growers of Jamaica and to protect their interest” Registered Office 10 South Avenue, Kingston 4 Telephone: (876) 922-5497 Fax: (876) 967-3160

Website: www.aibga.info E-Mail: aibga@cwjamaica.com

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AUGUST 2016 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 27

PRODUCTS INFORMATION

Hi-PRO to revitalize Peanut Industry in Jamaica

28 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2016

T

he stage is set for Jamaica’s peanut production to increase following the introduction of an intervention programme

by Hi-Pro, a division of the Jamaica Broilers Group.

As part of its mandate to assist Jamaican farmers towards profitability and sustainability, Hi-Pro has been working with peanut farmers to revitalize the industry through provision of technical support, soil sampling tests, and education on best practices in peanut production.

Jamaican farmers have been experiencing low yields in peanut production for the past three to four years, resulting in a 25-30% decrease in yields, based on a study conducted by RADA. “The study identified disease and pest infestation, poor quality nuts, soil nutrient deficiencies, and adverse climatic conditions as common problems plaguing the peanut farming community,” said Dagreon Burton, Technical Agronomist at Hi-Pro Farm Supplies.

“Hi-Pro’s aim is to assist peanut farmers with increasing their yields by up to 70% per acre,” Tricia Jackson, Operations Manager at Hi-Pro Farm Supplies noted, “and we have the product portfolio to make this happen.”

“We have seen great results since HiPro introduced the peanut resuscitation programme, and are working with our farmers on increasing local production to a point where manufacturers can reduce their importation of raw peanuts,” Mrs. Jackson said.

On July 21, Hi-Pro hosted their first peanut seminar in Lacovia, St. Elizabeth where they introduced the Hi-Pro Peanut programme to 175 farmers, following a number of highly successful demonstrations.

Of the nearly 2,000 registered farmers in St. Elizabeth and Westmoreland, 80% are engaged in peanut production. Since February, 2016, Hi-Pro has been conducting a pilot programme on the farm of peanut grower, Valerie Jones in Seven Corners, St. Elizabeth.

“Since the demonstration on my farm, I am getting more pods per plant, more bushels per acre, and healthier plants overall. My plants are so leafy that weeds have no space to grow,” declared Ms. Jones.

When Jones started her peanut farm, she was reaping 40 bushels per acre, with low density planting of seven bushels per acre. Since incorporating the Hi-Pro Peanut programme, she has seen an increase in yield to 90 bushels per acre at low density planting, with the possibility of adding more plants per acre.

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Among the products in Hi-Pro’s peanut programme are BASF Chemical’s Regnum and Opera, which offer the “Agcelence” effect- changing the overall development of the plant, improving plant health, and increasing yields per acre.

Agronomist Burton explained that the products reduce ethylene production in the crop, giving it a younger and healthier appearance, while reducing stress affecting the plants.

Hi-Pro will have these and other products on display at the Hi-Pro Booth the Denbigh Industrial & Agricultural Show at the Denbigh Showground, July 30 to August 1, 2016. “We encourage our Farmers to visit the Hi-Pro booth, learn about our crop programs, and get the full benefit of our technical expertise,” said Jackson. “Be sure to come and Grow with Hi-Pro!”

Agriculture Ministry to Restart Farmers’ Market

By Chris Patterson The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries will be restarting its farmers’ market initiative at venues across the island, to address the glut of some produce.

Mr. Hutchinson said the markets will provide an opportunity for consumers to buy produce at reduced prices, while allowing farmers to get rid of surplus crops.

Mr. Hutchinson also addressed matters such as praedial larceny and the Agro Economic Zone that will be established in Spring Plain, Clarendon.

The Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries will be restarting its farmers’ market initiative at venues across the island, to address the glut of some produce.

This was disclosed by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry, J.C. Hutchinson, at the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) St. Thomas Open Day, held at the Rudolf Elder Park, Morant Bay, on June 24.

“Right now we have a glut of quite a number of items, especially bananas,” the Minister said.

Hchinson said the markets will provide an opportunity for consumers to buy produce at reduced prices, while allowing farmers to get rid of surplus crops.

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HEALTH & NUTRITION

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AUGUST 2016 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • 29

NutriCare By

Gloria Bent, MS, RD, CDN - Nutritionist Questions &Comments: gloria.bent@gmail.com

Homemade Cough Drops That Relieve Sniffling, Coughing and Sneezing

A

By Geary Andrew cough is a natural reflex that protects lungs. This helps prevent infections.

It is uncomfortable all around, both physically and otherwise. Prolonged coughing can cause chest pain, exhaustion and lightheadedness.

Homemade cough syrups are best and effective way to cure cough than any conventional cough syrups, which often result into side effects and can be high in sugar!

The powerful ingredients in this remedy are common everyday items: Yet they work together to create a potent remedy for cold symptoms. This super immune boosting homemade cough drops that will help shorten the duration and alleviate the symptoms of a sniffling, coughing and sneezing.

Homemade Natural Cough Drops Recipe Ingredients: ½ cup coconut oil, room temperature ½ cup raw local honey 1 tsp organic cinnamon (optional)

Instructions: Put coconut oil into a mixer bowl and beat it until it’s whipped.

Add honey and continue whipping mixture until the oil and honey are blended.

Add cinnamon (if desired).

Scoop mixture into small ice cube trays.

Freeze for 20 minutes or until the cough drops are hard.

Remove cough drops from ice cube tray and store in an airtight container in your refrigerator.

How Ingredients of This Recipe Work

Raw Honey The honey is soothing, tasty, and coats and works as a natural cough suppressant.

Raw honey is packed with nutrients and enzymes and has powerful anti-viral and antibacterial properties. In clinical studies, honey has shown to be just as effective in alleviating coughs as over the conventional cough medicine.

Honey is also known to help reduce allergies. It is a rich demulcent, with a high viscosity and stickiness that useful in coating and soothing those irritated mucous membranes.

Coconut Oil Coconut oil is one of the richest sources of Lauric Acid. Lauric Acid is a saturated fat found in breast milk and is packed with immunity-building properties.

It is also rich in antioxidants, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Coconut oil can be used to help prevent colds by boosting the immune system.

Cinnamon Cinnamon has been used traditional medicine to help reduce cold and cough symptoms. It contains anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and anti-fungal properties.

Like ginger, cinnamon is a warming herb that helps with circulation, congestion, and boosting immunities which makes it a great addition to any cold or cough syrup.

Sources: www.naturalnews.com

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Moisture Max reduces watering costs

30 • THE AGRICULTURALIST • AUGUST 2016

T

ropi-Gro Moisture Max® is a liquid blend of organic compounds which can be used during planting, transplanting and cultivation of vegetable and fruit crops, and lawns.

Applied to the root zone at any time during a plant’s life, one application lasts up to three months!

Moisture Max® reduces labour and other costs incurred from constant watering by extending the time between required watering, while protecting seedlings, plants and lawns from adverse conditions, such as drought stress. For nurseries, Moisture Max® is an excellent drench, stimulating root development and preserving seedlings during transportation and reducing transplant stress.

Moisture Max® creates a film around the roots of the plant, which acts like a “water magnet” to continuously attract, store, and make soil moisture readily available to the root zone.

Water loss in soils and evaporation from soil are reduced!

By providing proper moisture management, Moisture Max® helps crops by increasing plant

The farmer had reduced irrigation costs, through savings on mechanical pumping, on-farm water transportation, labour (for daily watering), and electricity expenses.

Dr. Kathy Dalip Product Development Manager AG-CHEM PLANT LIMITED

survival rates, maximizing crop production, extending flower life, optimizing fertilizer uptake, and increasing transplant survival.

Moisture Max® can be used to reduce watering schedules while maintaining proper moisture levels during plant growth!

AG-CHEM results from Honeydew Melon crop, St Elizabeth Our trials showed that, even though control plants received 100% more water than Moisture Max®-treated plants, there was an increased size and yield of honeydew melons from the Moisture Max®-treated plants, on average 16% larger and 55% heavier than fruit sampled from control plots.

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The heavier weight meant higher yields, therefore more money in his pocket.

Moisture Max®. Less watering. Higher yields. More money.

Let’s Grow…your profits with Moisture Max®!

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