A DV I cE
June/July, 2021
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TREES, STORMS & PROPERTY VALUES Healthy, mature trees in a well landscaped yard improve property values. However, large trees close to a structure are a liability. There is the potential for damage and this may well diminish property appeal. Now that it’s hurricane season, it’s important to make sure your trees are healthy, so they have a better chance of withstanding high winds. Felled trees and broken branches cause major damage to structures and vehicles during hurricanes. Also, branches and coconuts can turn into deadly projectiles. Trees sometimes attract lightning because they provide a path for it to travel from cloud to earth. Even in good weather, branches that rub against a roof will eventually damage shingles and even create a pathway for leaks. Proper tree care will reduce the chance of property damage and enhance property appeal. Critical To Life Some owners raze a property to make way for construction. While it may be necessary to remove some trees, why get rid of valuable shade and fruit trees if they aren’t a threat? Sometimes, a property owner will then go to the expense of importing and planting new trees, having killed native trees or trees that have adapted and are better suited to the environment. Trees are critical to our economy and to life itself. Scientists say planting trees helps
take carbon monoxide out the air and tackle climate change. Trees feed us, give us oxygen and help conserve energy. They shield us from harmful ultra-violet rays, help prevent water pollution, conserve water and provide a habitat and food source for wildlife. Trees are beautiful. They soften hardscape, making properties more attractive. They lift our spirits. Eleuthera has some magnificent trees, including breadfruit, sapodilla and banyan. Many people are enjoying this year’s mango crop. The islands would be barren without these “green umbrellas.”
Pineapple Push The Ministry for trade and industry has selected a consultant to explore ways to strengthen Eleuthera’s pineapple industry with an emphasis on identifying new spinoff opportunities. This is a great idea. Everyone knows the Eleuthera “pine” is incredibly sweet and delicious and pineapple season is a high point of the year. Eleuthera made a name for itself as a pineapple exporter in the 19th century. The industry peaked in 1892, when more than eight million pineapples were exported, according to published reports. Unfortunately, Eleuthera couldn’t compete against Hawaii and the Philippines with their superior growing conditions, distribu-
tion networks and refrigerated vessels for transport. I visited a pineapple farm in Hawaii many years ago. It had about 30 types of pineapples on display, including one from the Bahamas. My Grandfather made a trip to New York at the turn of the last century and the entire cargo was pineapples. Happily, pineapple farming remains important to Eleuthera’s economy to this day. The industry gave birth to the Pineapple Festival in 1988. The festival has grown into a popular fourday event (pandemic years aside) and is a boost to the local economy. The Ministry’s pushing to open further avenues to build new revenue streams from the industry. When I think of all the wonderful arts and crafts produced locally, it’s not difficult to envisage “pineapple” souvenirs for visitors and home décor for locals and second homeowners. Items such as printed tea towels, kitchen mitts, jewellery, straw craft and woodwork, as an example. From a culinary standpoint, what could be better than pineapple ice-cream? Or gift baskets of chutneys, jams, and vacuum sealed pineapple rum cake and pineapple tarts attractively packaged for travel? The Ministry’s concept is interesting and one worth studying.
By Mike Lightbourn Questions or comments? Contact me at info@cbbahamas.com Mike Lightbourn is president of Coldwell Banker Lightbourn Realty.