smallholder rural producers and climate ... final technical...a regional workshop was held in st....
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SMALLHOLDER RURAL PRODUCERS AND CLIMATE-SMART
AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION AND MARKETING
Profile and Analysis of 13 English-Speaking Caribbean Countries
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Fundamentally, the small farmer is critical to ensuring community food and nutrition security
David Clarke, a dedicated small holder producer in rural Grenada
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Smallholder producers constitute the backbone of agricultural production across the Caribbean and
contribute significantly to domestic food production within the Region. Climate change will
disproportionately affect smallholder rural producers due to their inherent vulnerabilities, and
comparatively lower capacities for risk reduction and adaptation. According to the International Fund
for Agricultural Development (IFAD) (2011), the speed and intensity of climate change are outpacing the
ability of poor rural people and societies to cope, with resultant large-scale negative implications for
national and community development.
The Smallholder Rural Producers and Climate-Smart Agricultural Production and Marketing project was
implemented by IICA in an effort to collate and analyse information on smallholder production within
the context of climate change responses. The specific objectives of the project were:
(i) to compile and document current data and information in the Caribbean on rural
smallholder producers, production systems, climate change mitigating measures, and to
examine opportunities and barriers for smallholder full participation in rural commercial
enterprises;
(ii) to improve knowledge on best practices for rural smallholders, especially women and youth,
for building resilience to Climate Change effects so that they would benefit from the ensuing
rural entrepreneurship opportunities;
(iii) to identify opportunities for multi-country programmes for potential IFAD financing.
A Project Steering Committee comprising representatives from FAO, CARDI, CaribSave, CAFAN, CANROP,
CAFY and IICA, was appointed to provide monitoring and oversight to the project. A team of seven (7)
Consultants (including a Lead Regional Consultant) was appointed to undertake studies in the thirteen
(13) English-speaking Caribbean countries. The Lead Consultant (who also undertook the studies in
Barbados and Trinidad & Tobago) was responsible for developing a methodology for collecting the data
and consulting stakeholders. This methodology was utilized by each of the consultants in the conduct of
the work in the countries.
The methodology comprised a short survey, interviews with relevant stakeholders (from government
Ministries responsible for agriculture, health and nutrition, disaster preparedness, wáter resource
management, land management, environment; NGOs; agencies responsible for indigenous people, and
the media), field visits, and review and documentation of secondary information. Support was provided
by IICA Offices in the 13 Member Countries to the consultants for logistics on the ground, information
and studies, visits and interviews with stakeholders and convening of national consultations.
The country reports developed by the consultants provide details on the state of rural and agriculture
smallholder producers; the existing institutional framework in support of agriculture, rural development
the environment and trade; and adaptation strategies used by smallholders in response to Climate
Change impacts. Twenty three (23) case studies, including 13 short videos highlighting successful
adaptation strategies and projects being undertaken by individual small farmers, rural agroprocessors,
communities and indigenous groups, were also documented.
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A Regional Workshop was held in St. Lucia, September 2-3, 2014 to share the results obtained from
these studies, and to identify opportunities for projects which could be supported by IICA, IFAD and
strategic partners at both national and regional levels. The Specific Objectives of the Regional Workshop
were:
1. To share and discuss smallholder responses to the impacts of climate change and to share
lessons learned, success stories and best practices on change adaptation and mitigation
measures in the 13 Caribbean countries;
2. To identify priority actions which can be implemented over the short to medium term in Climate
Smart Agriculture; and
3. To make recommendations for effective institutional mechanisms at national, sub- regional and
regional levels for continued information sharing and communication, resource mobilization and
capacity building.
Sixty-five (65) participants, comprising smallholder producers, representatives from Ministries of
Agriculture, farmers’ associations, support agencies, and consultants participated in the workshop. The
Feature Address was delivered by the Minister of Agriculture, Food Production, Fisheries, Cooperatives
and Rural Development, Hon. Moses Jn-Baptiste and lead papers on institutional initiatives were
presented by representatives from CGIAR/CIAT, FAO, IICA, CARDI, CAFAN and CARIBSAVE. Each of the
consultants presented their findings and case studies, from which participants developed discussions in
plenary sessions. The workshop agenda also included a field trip to sustainable agro-forestry project
managed by the St. Lucia Agricultural Forum for Youth (SLAFY). (The Workshop Agenda and the list of
participants are provided in the Appendix). During the Regional Workshop, a televised interview was
also arranged, and the report of this interview and other media coverage are provided in the Appendix.
All of the lead papers, consultants’ reports, workshop presentations and videos of case studies can be
accessed via the links provided below:-
Presentations and Videos: https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B4Vo-
Jd1gzr6fnZTNWpBbmg0YS1oVGdvdXl1WVJtS3ltakNkdTB2a3RIOVlPNzFHSnFRMkE&usp=sharing
Reports:
https://drive.google.com/folderview?id=0B4Vo-
Jd1gzr6fm9UX2NnOVhsakw2aExnQkVsUkNhUnkyVU5UdFpJenRrS05oU1JhaWVuajA&usp=sharing
This Technical Report draws from the studies undertaken and is presented in 5 sections. Section 1
describes the development and application of the Methodology for data collection and stakeholder
consultations. Section 2 provides an analysis of the Status and Trends in Smallholder Production in the
Caribbean, while Section 3 describes the Effect of Climate Change on the Rural Sector, stakeholder
perceptions of climate change and some of the adaptation measures being practised. Section 4 covers
the Planning and Institutional Framework in support of the agricultural and rural sectors and climate
smart agriculture in the Region. Detailed recommendations for each country are presented in Section 5,
including potential opportunities for rural entrepreneurship. Summaries of case studies are presented in
Section 6.
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RECOMMENDATIONS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF A REGIONAL STRATEGY FOR ADDRESSING CLIMATE
SMART AGRICULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN:
The following areas were identified as priority issues for smallholder production in improving
adaptation and building resilience to climate change impacts:-
Water availability and water management, with a focus on water harvesting and irrigation
systems.
Drainage technology - given the likelihood of increased flooding events.
Technology (tools and instruments) and equipment for climate change adaptation.
Capacity building for the production and use of organic fertilizers
Land tenureship, land use management and watershed management
Methods for examining the feasibility of different adaptation and mitigation measures within
the context of the differing farm sizes.
Management of information on climate change and approaches to addressing its challenges.
Financing for climate smart agriculture.
Improvement in analytical skills, particularly as they relate to addressing the direct and indirect
causes of climate change.
User-friendly climate information, which farmers can understand and apply, and innovation in
rural extension systems for sharing of information on climate smart interventions.
Research and development on adaptation of crops to different agro-ecological zones, and on-
farm demonstrations will could provide farmers with an opportunity to see firsthand how
innovations could provide real and beneficial results in their particular situations
Innovations in crop insurance for smallholder agriculture
Promotion of cooperatives/farmers groups
Development of appropriate soil management regimes and soil analysis
Development of appropriate policies to support climate smart agriculture at national and
regional levels, and widening of the climate change “conversation” to a multi-stakeholder
audience.
Greater adoption of micro-propagation technology (tissue culture technology).
Research on impacts of climate change on the sector should be integrated into the development
agenda.
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A listing of partners and potential partners to address Climate Change issues within the regional context
was developed including the following agencies: CGIAR/CIAT, FAO, CARDI, CTA, CDB, UNDP, GIZ, IFAD,
IICA, CCCCC, OECS Authority, CMIH, and UWI.
The following suggestions were made to address the issue of funding:
1. There was a call for the development of an Adaptation Fund.
2. Stakeholders must pay special attention to the building of partnerships that would assist with
leveraging of funding opportunities.
3. The cooperative approach to funding should be adopted when different funding opportunities
are identified.
4. GEF/SGP is a potential source funding for initiatives in CC mitigation or adaptation.
5. There are opportunities for countries to benefit from the World Bank Pilot Programme for
Climate Resilience (PPCR), several Caribbean countries have already benefitted from resources
received from this facility.
A Regional Project Proposal, comprising 10 proposals from 8 of the countries, was also developed based
on inputs from the Member Countries. These projects and associated budgets are listed below:
COUNTRY PROJECT TITLE PROPOSED
BUDGET
1. Antigua & Barbuda Rejuvenate and Promote the commercial production of vegetables with the use of Protected Agriculture Technology at the Diamonds Agriculture Experimental Station
20,000
2. Belize
A) Vegetable crop producers - Protective Structure for Vegetable Production
20,000
B) Climate Resilient small ruminant (sheep, goat) production in Six Villages in Belize District
20,000
3. Dominica Use of Biological fertilizers in Family Farms and School gardens 20,000
4. Guyana Support to family agriculture through technological innovations and integrated climate smart farming methods for sustainable production
25,000
5. Jamaica Documentation of Climate Smart Agricultural Practices in Rural Jamaica
10,000
6. Grenada
A) Enhancing the Water Harvesting Capacity and Production Scheduling System in the Farming Community of Ludbur, St. Andrew’s, Grenada
20,000
B) Introduction to Water Harvesting and Improve Production Scheduling with North East Farmers Organization (NEFO), Grenada
20,000
7. Trinidad Building a Seamless Transition to Climate Smart Agricultural Practices
10,000
8. Barbados
Management of IICA/IFAD Regional Climate Smart Projects and Implementation of Course entitled “Building Capacity within Governments to Design and Implement Agricultural Insurance Programs to Mitigate climate Risk”
35,000
TOTAL 200,000
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Mixed Cropping System
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TECHNICAL REPORT
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. METHODOLOGY FOR DATA COLLECTION ............................................................................. 10
2. STATUS AND TRENDS IN SMALLHOLDER AGRICULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN REGION .............. 14 2.1 Profile of Smallholder Production in the Caribbean Region ............................................ 15
2.2.1 Rural Entrepreneurship ....................................................................................... 17
3 THE EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON SMALLHOLDER PRODUCTION AND THE RURAL SECTOR .............................................................................................................. 20 3.1 Smallholder Perceptions of Climate Change .................................................................... 23 3.2 Coping Strategies of Smallholder Producers .................................................................... 26
4. PLANNING AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR CLIMATE SMART AGRICULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN REGION ......................................................................................................... 30 4.1 National Initiatives ........................................................................................................... 30 4.2 Institutional Initiatives ..................................................................................................... 32
5. CASE STUDIES ..................................................................................................................... 40
6. RECOMMENDATIONS ON SMALLHOLDER ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE CHANGE ...................... 69 6.1 Priorities Identified by Smallholders ................................................................................ 69 6.2 Summary of Recommendations by Country .................................................................... 71 6.3 Proposed Regional Project on Caribbean CSA ................................................................. 76
APPENDICES ........................................................................................................................ 80
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L. to R: Participants on field trip to SLAFY Sustainable Agro-Forestry Project
REGIONAL WORKSHOP OPENING CEREMONY: L. to R: Hon. Minister Moses Jn-Baptiste, Minister of Agriculture, Food Production, Fisheries, Co-operatives and Rural Development, St. Lucia: John King, IICA Representative, St. Lucia and ECS: Ena Harvey, IICA Representative Barbados & Management Coordinator – Caribbean and Project Manager, IFAD Smallholder Project
L. to R: Participants from the 13 English Speaking Caricom Countries
REGIONAL WORKSHOP LEAD PRESENTERS: L. to R: Judi Clarke, Regional Director,CARIBSAVE (INTASAVE) Caribbean: Dr. Vyjayanthi Francis Lopez, Regional Plant Production and Plant Protection Office, FAO; Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim, Project Leader, Resilience Flagship, IICA HQ : Caitlin Corner-Dolloff, Climate Change Adaptation Specialist CGIAR: George Emmanuel, CARDI, St. Lucia
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1. METHODOLOGY FOR DATA COLLECTION
The design of the methodology was based on addressing the following three questions:
1. How does one coordinate a “science-policy” interface into our understanding of trends and
challenges to Caribbean Agriculture?
2. How do we assess the receptivity of smallholders in the agricultural sector to climate-change
adaptation and resilience initiatives?
3. What essential steps do we need to take to increase both awareness and action on climate
change impact in Caribbean Agriculture at the smallholder level ?
The Consultant selected 12 applications of methodologies from studies conducted in the Caribbean in
order to derive a methodology for data collection and consultations with stakeholders that the national
consultants could apply in the implementation of their work in the thirteen countries.
The methodology proposed by the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) (Ref.
“Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment Methodologies: A Guidance Manual for the Conduct and
Mainstreaming of Climate Change Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment in the Caribbean Region”)
strongly influenced the composition of the Survey with respect to recommendations on:
1. Avoiding large sample survey approaches;
2. Triangulating responses to fixed survey instruments, with other data gathering techniques to
validate the results;
3. Screening issues to arrive at the most pressing ones.
With this in mind, the Survey Instrument was developed to produce results that would provide sufficient
feedback to the National Consultants to assist in triangulating the opinions and impressions received
through their dialogue with stakeholders, as well as provide substantive content that could be shared in
the Regional Workshop.
The methodology proposed six (6) main data collection activities which were supplemented by
individual Consultants’ country-specific initiatives:
1) Literature search and document reviews relating to the Agricultural sector, climate change
impact and resilience building, smallholders producers, related policy initiatives and
projects/programmes;
2) Compilation of an inventory of active institutions and programmes and projects with potential
relevance to promotion of climate smart agriculture;
3) In-country interviews with key stakeholders;
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4) Documentation of Case Studies of climate change adaptation and climate smart agriculture by
smallholder producers, communities or indigenous groups;
5) Development of a “Critical Analysis Matrix” identifying priority vulnerability Issues, reasons for
Vulnerability, Impact, Adaptation opportunities and Challenges,/Constraints in each country;
6) Application of a “Fixed Survey Instrument” with selected stakeholders.
Guidelines Provided to Consultants on Data Collection
A number of guidelines and suggestions were provided by the Methodology Consultant for the national
consultants. These are reproduced below:
Re: Programme/Project Inventory
Group the inventory by focal emphasis that reflects a program response to themes of climate-
smart agriculture, such as climate change vulnerability, sub-sectors at risk, critical issues
addressed
Provide a note on the capacity of some of these programmes to involve local population and
more importantly to support any “coping strategies” observed
Identify “gaps” in the programme/project coverage that reflect on the adequacy or inadequacy
of the approach.
Re: In-country interviews
The interviews with stakeholders in the countries are intended to gain some insight into aspects of
smallholder agriculture that are of importance to the study and to observe whether existing coping
strategies are sufficient to address the problem of changing climate conditions, and whether they could
be scaled up to a national effort for climate change resilience in Agriculture
Interviews are expected to:
o Identify issues of concern in agriculture related to climate change impact; Identify key
parameters for an adequate response to climate smart agriculture at the national level such as;
Validation and application of local knowledge and experience;
Technology applications;
Water availability, distribution and management;
o Identify key support mechanisms that could bring about an adequate response to climate smart
agriculture at the farming system level, such as;
Subsidies for eco-friendly farming practices
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Conservation measures
Alternative farming systems
Building awareness of the landscape
Change in farming practices
Zoning areas for climate-change resilience protection
The Survey Instrument (available on link to presentations provided above)
The Survey Instrument comprised 7 questions: (it was also made available online to stakeholders)
Question 1: Identification of respondent, occupation and country
Question 2: From a list of 8 environmental issues, choose the three most pressing issues
Question 3: Indicate the intensity of your concerns about each of the three (3) issues selected, keeping in
mind that Climate Change can reduce our potential to solve some of these problems in agriculture.
Question 4: From a list of six (6) ways of thinking about climate change impact in agriculture, score each
in terms of which ones are “the most effective” and “the least effective”.
Question 5: Climate Change is forcing us to make linkages between farming systems and ecosystem
services, To what extent do you agree or disagree with the following statements.
Question 6: On a scale of 1 to 10 rank the following climate resilience measures in terms of
“Attractiveness” and “Feasibility”.
Question 7: Recommend three (3) Measures and/or Policies to support building climate-change resilience
in Agriculture and identify the appropriate leading agency
In Antigua & Barbuda, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Lucia and St.Kitts & Nevis, the public was also
apprised of the project and invited to submit their views on the key questions via nationally televised
and broadcast sessions. Links to excerpts of sessions are:
Antigua & Barbuda: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAFoOXQ1Gws&feature=youtu.be) St. Kitts & Nevis: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsCiUIRjC9o) St. Lucia: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ROah3clzS8) St. Vincent & the Grenadines: (https://docs.google.com/file/d/0BxfekZ-qzWn-G0xMDN3dmhsQkU/edit)
Re: Case Study
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The Case Study should provide an example of a response of an individual farmer, community, or
indigenous group to Vulnerability or a Demonstrated Capacity to build resilience (resilience of what, to
what, from whose perspective and over what time frame should be identified), as well as the ability to
self organize and learn, and to use adaptation in building resilience.
Re: The Country Report
The final reports are expected to include the following chapters:
1) Introduction and methodology used
2) Status and trends of rural smallholder agriculture: challenges and opportunities
3) Analysis of the impacts of climate change in rural areas
4) Strategy, policies and programmes to address climate change Case studies
5) Recommendations
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2. STATUS AND TRENDS IN SMALLHOLDER AGRICULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN
REGION
Agriculture is not merely another economic pillar; …. indeed it is the very root and fabric of our society
(Minister of Agriculture, Guyana)
The importance of the agricultural and rural sectors to the Caribbean región cannot be overstated.
Across the region, the sector continues to be a major source of employment and generation of revenue
and food and nutrition security and sustainable livelihoods for thousands of rural dwellers.
A sampling of the current data bears this out. In Dominica, agriculture is the single most important
private sector activity, both in terms of number of persons employed and contribution to GDP. The
sector continues to be a major employer of the labour force (25%), generating on average 12.6% to 15%
of GDP. In Guyana, the agricultural sector is central to the survival strategy of many rural and hinterland
households. The sector contributes almost 20% to the economy, employs >30% of population and
almost 40% of exports earnings contributed by agriculture. In Jamaica > 85% of rural population
depends either directly or indirectly on agriculture (FAO 2014). Belize is no exception with agriculture
accounting for 12% GDP and employing over 31% or one-third of the country’s workforce. In the case of
Grenada, the sector is a significant contributor national development, accounting for 4.5-8.5% of GDP,
and employing about 24% of the labour force. It is significant to note that in Grenada, an alarming
increase of the acreage of land being abandoned – from 356 acres in 2000 compared to 6,122.5 acres in
2009.
Over the last two decades, the agricultural sector in the Caribbean has entered a new era of
vulnerability that has affected export crops and domestic agriculture alike. The forces driving
contemporary vulnerabilities are both economic and environmental. Externally induced economic and
environmental forces impact national economies, rural communities and individual households in the
form of shocks and stresses. Shocks are sudden fast onset events such as hurricanes, earthquakes or
sudden changes in world commodity prices; whereas stresses are relatively slower onset events, such as
drought, land degradation, poor marketing and infrastructure and lack of access to credit. Shocks and
stresses fluctuate over space and time and contribute significantly to patterns of vulnerability and
sustainability of livelihoods whether at the level of the household, the rural community or the national
economy. Stresses and frequent shocks also pose a serious threat to the sustainability of domestic food
production and food security. Thus, the vulnerability of the sector in the Region needs to be understood
in terms of both shocks and stresses, and coping strategies and adaptive capacities of rural households
need to be analyzed within the context of these multiples stresses and shocks.
The sector faces significant challenges which if left unchecked, could further undermine market
competitiveness and viability over the long run. Across the region, the sector has long been hampered
by the debilitating legacies handed down from its colonial past, and the deep-seated structural dualism
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has created a distinctive small-scale domestic farming sector alongside a traditionally large-scale export
sector.
This section provides a snapshot of smallholder agricultural production and entrepreneurial activity
across the 13 member states.
2.1 Profile of Smallholder Producers in the Caribbean Region
The agricultural sector represents an important source of income and employment for the rural
population. It plays a vital role in achieving the region’s food security objectives as well as alleviating
rural poverty and can contribute immensely to rural growth and development.
In Jamaica for example, the sector supports an estimated 150,000 rural families and is the country’s
second largest employer of labour. Production of a wide variety of crops, fisheries, livestock and forestry
is characterized by a large number of small farmers, the majority (approximately 85.6%) of whom
operate on small farm holdings averaging less than 5 acres (cf. 2 hectares) in size, and utilizing
traditional farming methods – typically labour intensive and rain-fed systems.
In smaller islands such as Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean States (ECS), the sector is characterised
by limited access to suitable land for production due not only to the small physical size of the islands,
but also competition for lands with tourism, housing, services and other facilities. As a result, there is a
high number of landless farmers, and a prevalence of small scale, uneconomic fragmented farming
units.
Barbados has 4,600 registered farmers (CARDI/FAO, 2012), some of whom occupy relatively large
holdings (2 – 8 ha) and with the majority on smaller holdings: 0.2 – 1.6 ha). The Dominica 1995
agriculture census reports a total of 9,026 farms with 44.9% between 1 – 4.9 acres, and 21% between
0.1 – 0.99 acres. Since 1995, there has been a reduction in total number of farmers in Dominica as a
result of the significant decline of the banana industry and migration, abandonment of farm lands and a
low level of entry of new farmers into the industry.
Indigenous peoples constitute an important aspect of smallholder production particularly in Dominica,
Belize and Suriname. In the case of Dominica, there are approximately 800 households in the Kalinago
territory, with some 93.8% being small farmers. Typically, holdings are small, fragmented, and
communally owned. Farm systems are diversified and are dominated by root crops, coconut, tree crops,
and banana. Farming is not main source of livelihood, as households are also involved in alternative
activities (e.g. construction, craft production, tourism). Approximately 5-6% of farmers are totally
dependent on agriculture.
In Suriname, the total number of farms recorded in the 2008 Census was 10,234. Of these 10,188 were
small farms run by single families and of these small farms, 40% are subsistence farms. Smallholder
production is concentrated primarily in the rural areas in the coastal regions, and in the savanna region
and interior with the indigenous peoples, viz. Amerindians and Maroons.
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With the exception of rice, crops in Suriname are mainly rain fed. About 25% of all farms (mainly rice
producers) in Suriname irrigate their crops. Most farmers use herbicides to suppress weeds but some
small farmers prefer to use brush cutters. Chemical fertilizers are more frequently used than organic
fertilizers, and on the majority of the farms (both small and large farms) pesticides are used. Only a few
farmers prefer to use environmental friendly pesticides.
In Guyana, there are small farmers producing rice, sugar and non-traditional crops. Smallholder rice
farmers occupy plots of 15 acres or less while the 2,041 small cane farmers (of which 500 are Fairtrade
and 16% are women) tend to occupy plots up to 25 acres. There are approximately 15,000 non-
traditional farmers on holdings five acres or less producing fruits and vegetables. Smallholder livestock
producers in Guyana are more accurately defined by annual gross income and categories of livestock
reared. Rearing of larger animals is predominant among smallholder farmers. In most cases, farming
occurs on land that is unable to sustain the number of animals. A significant percentage of livestock
famers are landless, and who farm on communal or State lands. In the fisheries sub-sector, there is a
high prevalence of women.
Data from the Belize Farm Registry (2007) show that 24% of farms have less than 2 ha (4.9 ac), 33% have
between 2 and 8 ha (19.8 ac), and 74% of farms in the country are below 20 ha (49.4 ac). Small farmers
produce primarily for the domestic food and livestock markets using traditional technology such as Milp
-slash and burn, particularly for the production of corn, rice, and beans. In addition a few are involved in
vegetable production (tomato, onion, sweet pepper) while others are focused on livestock production
such as backyard poultry, tilapia, small ruminants, cattle, and apiculture for honey production. A few
smallholders are also involved in hunting and gathering cohune nuts.
Challenges commonly faced by smallholder producers include:
Little or no access to low cost, affordable financing; high interest rates compounded by limited
or lack of collateral to secure financial assistance;
Inadequate access to and implementation of innovation and technology;
Limited access to land - many occupy unimproved vulnerable lands with little or no drainage and
irrigation;
Transportation constraints (especially in the case of riverine or hinterland communities in
Guyana, Suriname and Belize), which can substantially add to cost of production;
Marketing. This is linked to a number of interrelated factors including poor production planning,
lack of synergies among producers, overwhelming imbalance between supply and demand and
non-tariff barriers;
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High cost of labour, fueled by the limited supply of willing labourers.
Water shortages, inadequate water storage and distribution, low levels of technology for
irrigation and drainage.
2.1.1 Rural Entrepreneurship
From the mainland territories in Belize, Guyana and Suriname to the smaller island states, smallholder
activities in the rural sector invariably include agroprocessing, which are largely led by women between
the ages of 30-55 years.
In all of the countries studied there have been several interventions, especially over the last 2 decades,
which have resulted in varying levels of modernization and commercialization of the agro-processing
subsector. Many of these interventions have been driven by the potential offered by agro-processing as
a vehicle to alleviate rural poverty and unemployment through diversification of incomes and access to
markets, particularly for women and farm families.
Products produced by smallholders across the 13 countries range from jams, jellies, syrups, preserves
and confectionery to a variety of hot sauces: oils (virgin coconut, castor, bay), herbal teas, baked goods
(cassava bread, cookies from starchy roots & tubers), snack foods (fried and baked breadfruit, plantain
and banana chips); beverages (including several “healthy” formulations using natural herbs, fruits,
vegetables and spices) and indigenous “medicinal” products.
In terms of markets, most of these products are sold on the domestic market, which includes local shops
and gas stations, supermarkets, and souvenir shops. It should be noted that products find their way into
the the tourism market and are purchased by both long stay and cruise visitors. Some small operators
have managed to meet requirements for export and have accessed export markets (ethnic, diaspora and
specialty food markets) in the USA, UK, Canada, Europe and even Japan, with assistance from agencies
such as Caribbean Export and local Business Development Agencies. It is significant to note that 45% of
Caribbean Export’s clients are female.
In Grenada, for example, there are approximately 250 small agro-processors operating within in the tri-
island State of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique, providing both permanent and temporary
employment for rural families, most of which are women (65%) (GoG, 2012). Almost one quarter (24%)
of small agro-processors have access to export markets.
Traditionally, confectionary such as coconut candies and guava cheese have dominated the market.
Recently however, according to Ministry of Agriculture officials and members from the Grenada
Network of Rural Women Producers (GRENROP), a wide range of local products have entered the
Agro-processing in Grenada is not just an income generating activity but a cultural activity
entrenched in every Grenadian (MoA, 2013).
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market, such as plantain and banana chips, various flavors of cocoa balls, dried herbs, various kinds of
green seasoning, hot pepper sauce and wines.
There is a significant level of organization of smallholders into groups or associations, which are either
family or community supported. This is perhaps best exemplified in Grenada where there are some 23
farmers’ organizations. Though functioning at varying levels of efficiency, the two very active ones,
North East Farmer Organization (NEFO) and the Grenada Network of Rural Women Producers
(GRENROP) provide many benefits to their members. These benefits include joint marketing (GRENROP
has established a contract with a supermarket), sourcing of packaging materials, training, and social
networking and support.
In many of the countries studied, most notably Grenada, Dominica, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad &
Tobago, and the Bahamas, smallholders are engaging in rural tourism as business. Linking their
production and processing activities to the tourism sector provides an opportunity to keep land in
farming, diversify incomes, create employment for the family, earn foreign exchange, validate local
knowledge and traditions, contribute to biodiversity conservation, and promote food and nutrition
security.
It is significant to note that many of the agrotourism and rural tourism enterprises are managed by
women and their families. These include:
Belmont Estate, Goat Dairy, De La Grenade, Grenada
Rodney’s Wellness Retreat, Dominica
Rowans, Woodford Farms, Stush in the Bush, Jamaica
Earth Mother Botanicals, Barbados
Grande Agrotourism Cocoa, Cocobelle, Mountain Pride cocoa, Trinidad & Tobago
Abaco Neem, Bahamas
Plas Casav, St. Lucia
Pomeroon AgroProcessors, Guyana
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Challenges faced by small-scale processors include:
Insufficient Access to Training and Inadequate Appropriate Technology: Currently the technology utilized in the small scale processing sector is inefficient and insufficient. There is limited to no access of appropriate equipment, and production is largely manual.
Unsatisfactory investment in research and new product development
Inadequate access to markets: This is to a number of factors including inadequate marketing support: Smallholder producers are of the belief that the lack of investment in market research and intelligence has contributed significantly to insufficient access to markets.
Low economies of scale.
Inadequate capacity for product development
Inconsistent and insufficient raw material
Human and financial capacity constraints: Generally smallholder farmers do not have the financial resources or credit facilities at their disposal to invest in new processes, human resource development and technological innovation. This also seriously hinders local capacity to comply with international food safety and other relevant standards and protocols.
Weak and incipient management: Many agro-processing entities are weak managerially. They lack of the technical capability to handle all aspects of a profitable enterprise. Inadvertently, they attempt to provide all of the services of a company through one or two individuals, resulting in less than satisfactory outcomes.
“We are looking into new products, a lot of
fruits are available – cherry, mango … a lot of
it just waste, we are thinking of preserving,
however, we lack the capacity to process the
fruit” (Helping Hands, Rupununi, Region 9)
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3. THE EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON SMALLHOLDER AGRICULTURAL
PRODUCTION AND THE RURAL SECTOR
Climate change is already occurring and constitutes a critical risk to Small Island Developing States. In
fact, changes in climate magnify existing vulnerabilities, and seriously constrain efforts at attaining
national development targets of poverty reduction, socio-economic growth and environmental
sustainability. According to the fifth report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC),
small islands are excessively affected by current hydrometeorological extreme events, both in terms of
population affected and losses as a percentage of gross domestic product (GDP) (Anthroff et al, 2010 as
quoted Margrin et al, 2014). The key ecosystems that sustain agriculture production are also
threatened, necessitating urgent autonomous and planned adaptation, which can cost developing
countries an estimated US$ 7.3 to US$ 7.6 billion (World Bank, 2009).
Across the Caribbean, there exists a mosaic of different agricultural systems dependent on local
precipitation, soil and topographic conditions. Given the very different agro-ecological and socio-
economic conditions of farming communities in the Region, the likely effects of climate change on local
agriculture vary significantly from place to place, with markedly different impacts on rural livelihoods.
Moreover, the vulnerability of farming communities to climate change also differs significantly across
the Region. In other words, the impact of climate change is not uniform across the 13 member states,
and similarly, neither are the vulnerabilities of rural communities nor communities’ abilities to cope and
adapt. This makes the task of formulating national and regional policies, and fine-tuning to target
specific vulnerable local communities particularly challenging.
There is already a considerable amount of scientific evidence to suggest that the Caribbean is
experiencing the effects of a changing and/or variable climate - longer more frequent droughts, greater
variability in rainfall, and drier and hotter summers.
Storms, hurricanes and flood events have resulted in losses
of agricultural assets, livestock, and crop infrastructure. In
Jamaica for example, Between 2002 and 2007 the
agricultural sector was impacted by approximately 12
extreme weather events; seven hurricanes/tropical storms,
two dry spells and three extended periods of heavy rains –
amounting to an estimated sum of US$285.7 M in damages.
Hurricane Dean in Jamaica 2007 caused significant losses in 5 sub-sectors of agriculture viz. coffee,
banana, sugar, dairy and poultry (CSGM, 2012). The financial impact on the coffee crop was estimated
at J$ 1 231 million (FAO, 2013). The same hurricane caused a loss in export earnings for the banana
sector estimated at US$15 million, while the loss in domestic earnings over the similar period was US$25
million (FAO, 2013). In terms of sugar, the factories of the Sugar Company of Jamaica (SCJ) incurred
losses of approximately J$ 761 million. It was estimated that total sugar production for the 2007/08
season was reduced by 21%, which represents lost revenue of about J$ 1.1 billion. As a result of the
same hurricane there was widespread dislocation in electricity and water supplies, and resulted in
21
island-wide negative impacts on the dairy sector, either directly or as a result of the suspension of milk
purchases by the distributive trade (FAO, 2013). It was estimated that direct losses in milk production
were approximately 25 percent of daily production. Small poultry farmers – who account for
approximately 30 to 35% of national production – experienced the worst damage (FAO, 2013).
Hurricane Tomas which impacted St. Lucia in October 2010 was a major disaster affecting areas around
the country resulting in landslides, infrastructural damage, loss of property, and life. Several major
landslides and debris flows occurred along major roadways and settlements, with several others
occurring in many forested areas affecting critical water supply infrastructure.
In December 2013, the passage of a low level trough resulted in damage to the agricultural sector
estimated at US$11.93 million, of which direct damage was estimated at US$8.3 million and indirect
losses at US$3.63 million with physical damage to the following subsectors. The crop sub-sector was
severely impacted, especially the banana, plantain, vegetable and root crop industries. In the livestock
sub-sector, while not too many farmers were affected, those affected lost all their livestock, as well as
sustaining damage to livestock infrastructure. In the fisheries sub-sector, significant damages were
experienced to fishing gear and engines, and minor damage was reported to fish landing sites. Some
80% of all aquaculture ponds suffered varying degrees of damage, mainly due to siltation and loss of
tilapia and shrimps. Siltation problems were evident on sea-moss farms.
Rural infrastructure was also severely impacted. There was extensive damage to irrigation infrastructure
and heavy siltation of the lower valley areas and farm and feeder roads, restricting access in the affected
areas. The forestry sub-sector also suffered damage to and extensive riverbank erosion was evident in
some areas.
Loss of biodiversity is an emerging trend associated with climate change and climate variability. Habitat
destruction and the introduction of invasive alien species such as feral pigs and species from the pet
trade that have found themselves in the wild also contribute to the losses. Increase in alien pests and
diseases of external origin impacting the biodiversity sector can affect food security. Climate change
impacts have affected biodiversity, such as coral reefs that have suffered bleaching in a number of areas
across the region. Climate change also appears to be impacting coastal and marine ecosystems, resulting
in a reduction in fish landings.
Another impact of climate change and variability has been demonstrated in changes in flowering and
fruiting patterns for several agricultural crops, affecting agricultural production patterns and overall
food availability.
Given the highly labour intensive nature of smallholder production, hurricanes also impact employment.
In addition to economic losses, increased flooding also leads to inundation of production fields, and
results in more favorable conditions for crop disease, increased food prices, increased cost for insurance
and capital rates for loans also become higher.
22
Sea level rise is of particular concern in the Bahamas with human settlements and infrastructure in
coastal low lands. Sea level rise and storm surges are likely to cause sea level intrusion in coastal
agriculture lands and salination of underground water resources. Other expected impacts are the
introduction of pests and diseases, the gradual evolution of pine and coppice forests to wetlands, and in
extreme cases, could result in approximately 80% of land mass of The Bahamas being submerged. In
Jamaica some wells have been already been abandoned due to increased salinity and others produce
water unsustainable for agricultural use (CSGM, 2012).
In the case of Guyana, the Second National Communication on Climate Change identified two main
issues of concern for the agriculture sector, namely sea level rise and extreme weather events,
particularly flooding and drought (Government of Guyana, 2012). It is significant to note that 90% of the
population lives along the coast, which is below mean sea level, and that 70% of the population depends
on agriculture and agriculture-related activities located predominantly within the coastal area, thus
amplifying the sector’s vulnerability. Susceptibility analysis for rice cultivation in Region 5 and sugar cane
in Region 6 due to predicted climate changes on yields concludes that a significant portion of the land
would be inundated with large negative impacts to the rice subsector.
The ripple effect of climate change on the agriculture sector can be seen from the schematic below,
which was produced for Dominica (Adapted from Hill, 2013)
23
3.1 Smallholder Perceptions of Climate Change
“No seasons now” [Pomeroon
farmer].
“Prices are no longer steady
…example, seasoning peppers
move from G$100 to G$600 due to
low supply” [Pomeroon Women
Agro-processors, Guyana
Association].
“Because of the weather, farmers
did not have enough to supply us
for the last 3 years. Between 2000-
2004, good peanut crop. We
bought 22,000 lbs per year.
Between 2005-2013, we were only
able to purchase 2,000lbs annually
– even though we had the monies
to buy more, we could not get it.
Peanut supply reduced by [90.9%]. We had to
lay off staff. We had 19 paid staff, now we only
have 2. we were making income of G$ 200,000
(US$1,000) per month; now we barely making
G$ 20,000 (US$ 100.00 ) per month…similar
problem with cassava …the weather just gone
crazy [Helping Hands, Region 9, Guyana].
“We loss 500 bearing pear trees during the
December 2013 rains and more than 40 acres of
cassava … more than 300 farmers affected …
we los’ millions of dollars” [Little Try Best
Farmer, Region 2, Guyana]
“In these past few years, the rain
starts late and ends before the end
of rainy season….in my younger
farming days (1970s), we could
cultivate and harvest twice but
now we only harvest once.”
[Farmer, Westerhall St. David’s,
Grenada, 2014].
We are not sure what is causing
the problem – the cashew tree
blossom but when the fruit comes,
the young ones just drop off. Could
be too much sun, but we are not
sure, NAREI has not been able to
tell us the reason either” [Helping
Hands, Region 9, Guyana].
“We have no control of the seasons now; we cannot say it’s
really rainy season or dry season. Sometimes we think we
have “cahwem”, but you see a lot of rain, and sometimes
when you expect rain its “cahwem” [Female Farmer,
Dominica, 2014].
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While in general, most smallholder producers were aware of climate change, a large percentage
appeared to have insufficient or detailed knowledge on the subject and could not confirm whether their
perceived observations on the impacts of climate change could be correlated with scientific evidence.
In the application of the survey instrument, stakeholders were asked to rank the three most pressing
issues affecting agriculture in particular and the society at large. In most countries, the direct impact of
climate change was ranked as being the highest concern by the stakeholders surveyed. From the specific
choices listed, this was followed by poor land use and reduced water availability. A large share of the
respondents selected ‘other’, which includes issues pertaining more to poor planning and governance.
In Jamaica, most of the respondents expressed that they were fairly concerned with poor land use
practices and climate change direct impacts. Persons were slightly concerned about the risk of reduced
water availability and barely concerned about issues pertaining to food insecurity and biodiversity loss.
In Dominica, unpredictability of seasons was the main concern, with farmers complaining that the
traditional seasonal patterns are very varied and uncertain. Other farmers reported increases in pest
infestations, low surface water stream flows, reduced crop yields, and in some cases escalated soil
erosion.
In Grenada, respondents rated climate change direct impacts and increased chemical use, followed by
poor land use as the issues of greatest concern in the agriculture sector. Other concerns included
reduced water availability, population density, biodiversity loss and food insecurity. Generally
respondents were extremely concerned about inadequate land use and reduced water availability, and
fairly concerned about climate change and chemical use.
Respondents were asked to pinpoint the most effective ways of thinking about climate change impacts
on agriculture. The choices ranged from 1, being the least effective to 5, being the most effective. In
Jamaica, ‘Inevitability’ was ranked as being the most effective, followed by ‘Complexity’ , ‘Not
Evidential’, ‘Political Will’, ‘Uncertainty’ and ‘Skepticism’.
Here, inevitability suggests a belief that once climate change impacts start to take place, they are
irreversible. From a policy standpoint, this does not augur well for adaptation planning. At the same
time, it is understandable if persons hold this view given the slow progress made to date in closing the
current global emissions gap. Such a sentiment might be influenced more by what is (or is not) taking
place at the international and regional levels as opposed to locally.
Additionally, the majority of countries in the Caribbean contribute very little to climate change and can
therefore do very little to reverse it. Reversing climate change will require the cooperation of larger
nations, which from a climate justice perspective, will be the least impacted. This reality might partly
explain why there has been so much emphasis placed on adaptation as opposed to mitigation activities
in countries in the Region.
Complexity also emerged as a dominant theme in thinking about the agriculture sector’s vulnerability to
climate change. This is also very important for adaptation planning and for resilience building within the
25
sector. In this case, stakeholders held the view that climate change impacts a multiplicity of agricultural
factors, each having differing degrees of intensity (or exposure and sensitivity). This represents a
nuanced understanding (or appreciation) of the wide-ranging impacts climate change will have on the
sector. This approach is therefore comparable to an integrated planning approach that will take sector-
wide issues into consideration. The fact is, climate change will have varying impact of the country’s
agriculture sector, and so, this approach seems to be in line with this reality.
Respondents were also asked to comment on the extent to which climate change considerations are
now forcing us to understand more clearly, the links between local farming systems and ecosystem
services. Several statements were presented to each respondent, from which they were asked to
comment on their level of agreement with the said statements.
Landscape management featured the most in terms of stakeholder agreement, followed by farmer
experience, water availability and farmer knowledge. Persons who selected landscape management
generally held the view that farming communities should play a key role in the identification of
improved landscape management practices. Similarly, the integration and use of farmer experience and
knowledge were seen as crucial to effective natural resource management.
The issue of water availability also featured prominently in the findings. Most of the respondents were
of the view that this was one of the issues that is not getting the attention it deserves. Interestingly,
most persons did not agree that small farmers have sufficient technical inputs to exercise effective
natural resources management. This suggests that there is still need for the provision of technical
support services and the transfer of appropriate scientific knowledge, but these must be done in
tandem with farmers’ local/indigenous knowledge and practices.
The priority setting exercise was very interesting. The promotion of improved farm management
practices, the transfer of scientific and technological knowledge and the provision of support subsidies,
and improved rural livelihoods at risk of climate impacts, were considered to be the most attractive
measures to increase climate change resilience in agriculture.
However, with the exception of farm management, the other two measures were not considered to be
equally feasible to accomplish. In the case of subsidies, this was actually considered to be one of the
least feasible solutions. The enforcement of land use zoning regulations emerged as the least favored,
both in terms of attractiveness and feasibility.
When the parameters that linked farming systems and ecosystems were considered, the majority of
respondents most commonly reported that farming communities should become more collectively
involved in managing their landscape and that water availability is not getting the attention it deserves
(n=16). In addition, stakeholders noted that the experiences of small farmers resulted in the best
management of natural resources.
The attractiveness and feasibility of a number of priority measures directed at increasing climate change
resilience in the agriculture sector were evaluated on a scale of one to 10, with 10 been most very
feasible or attractive. Farm management, which includes better soil management by farmers followed
by greater focus on education and to a lesser extent application of new farm inputs and technologies
were perceived to be the most attractive and feasible solutions to building resilience. Contrary to
26
Guyana and Dominica, respondents from Grenada rated subsidies as a fairly attractive and feasible
solution.
3.2 Coping Strategies of Caribbean Smallholder Producers
Awareness of climate change is an imperative determinant of farm-level adaptation. Access to finances,
markets, and free extension services can also significantly increase the likelihood of farmers adopting
adaptation measures. In addition, smallholders with access to modern equipment and technology are
more likely to adapt to changes in climatic conditions. With access to technology, farmers are able to
vary their planting dates, diversify their crop options, use more irrigation, and apply water conservation
techniques.
Another important determinant of farm-level adaptation is land ownership. Farmers who own land are
more likely to invest in adaptation options, including crop and livestock management practices and
water conservation. Smallholders engaged in mixed crop and livestock farming, are more likely to adapt
to changes in climatic conditions than are farmers in a specialized farming system.
In Grenada, many smallholder farmers practise soil and water conservation through contour farming;
the use of grass barriers, check dams, hedgerows and windbreaks; minimum tillage practices, and
application of mulch and other forms of green manure. Other practices include zero-grazing,
maintenance of adequate drainage systems, strip cropping, maintaining ground cover, use of drip
irrigation or micro-sprinklers, and rain water harvesting. Farmers have also diversified their production
system to include a variety of crops, thus reducing risk.
Water management practices among stakeholders include rainwater harvesting, drip irrigation and
establishment of ponds and water catchments.
“ A lot of what needs to be done is really going back to traditional practices that were so effective and beneficial. We need to marry the old practices with the new methodologies. It is not so much a financial investment as it is a need to build our human resource capacity and transfer the knowledge” [Trevor Thompson, Land Use Officer, Grenada, 2014]
27
In Suriname, under a project on “Introduction of Sustainable Farming Systems in the Futunakaba
Village”, training was provided in alley cropping and multi-storage cropping to women with a focus on
biodiversity protection, poverty alleviation and income generation as alternatives to shifting cultivation.
Also, in Suriname, Mr. Bhageloe, a small farmer (3ha) in Saramacca, has successfully used agro-forestry
with main crop Cestrum latifolium, and support crops Inga edulis and Erythrina fusca.
28
In the Bahamas, systems have been developed for adaptation to various levels of soil salinization,
atmospheric CO2 enrichment and increased temperatures. Systems have also been developed to use
low quality (saline) water for irrigation.
In Belize, local producers are using traditional knowledge and adoptable new technologies, including
adjusting planting schedules, and applying alternative energy applications (solar water-irrigation pumps
and solar powered electric livestock fencing, biogas) to reduce energy costs. Most farmers have begun
to adopt the use of protective structures (tropical green houses) and fertigation, post harvest
technology and storage units (onion and grains) and silvo-pastoral systems (forage & protein banks) for
sustainable production to respond to longer, drier, hotter temperatures and pest incidence increases.
There has also been an increased interest by small farmers to participate in training sessions, workshops
and projects that support developing climate resiliency. Farmers are now investing in the establishment
of reliable water sources to cope with severe drought such as well and water catchment construction for
crop irrigation and artificial lagoons with controlled valves for livestock producers.
Technology intensification via the construction of green houses, with fertigation systems is becoming
the norm for vegetable producers despite the challenge of identifying green house crop varieties ideal
for Belize climatic conditions.
This is also the case for Guyana and St. Kitts & Nevis where smallholders have established protected
agriculture structures under projects supported by Partners of the Americas, CARDI and IICA. In Guyana,
17 small farmers established greenhouse structures and 675 homestead gardens were established.
29
Climate change adaptation strategies also extend to the production of value added products by
smallholders. One such example can be found in Belize with the Flowers Bank Community Group
(FBCG). FBCG is a rural family based group that earns an income from the sale of cooking oil form the
cohune nut palm. The group is expanding its current operations to facilitate the increased production
and quality of cohune oil with funding through the Global Climate Change Alliance (GCCA) CARIFORUM
Support Programme supported by the Government of Belize. This initiative will result in the expansion
of the Flowers Bank Community Group services to the commercial production of virgin cohune oil, and
the production of other products such as soap, candles and activated charcoal. Additionally, this
program will enhance the community's climate change adaptation capacity by building a sustainable
community equipped with the capacity to implement and sustain income generating activities that lead
to sustainable livelihoods.
Other examples of adaptation strategies practised by smallholders include organic production by the
BelleVue Chopin organic farmers and greenhouse production of nursery crops at the Giraudel Flower
Group’s headquarters in Dominica.
Left: Farmers at BelleVue Chopin showing equipment donated for composting
Right: Nursery at Giraudel
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4. THE PLANNING AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK FOR CLIMATE SMART
AGRICULTURE IN THE CARIBBEAN REGION
In all of the countries studied, various domestic and sectoral policies and strategic plans prioritizing the
agricultural and rural sectors have been developed and implemented by governments, and through the
committed efforts of in-country technical assistance agencies and non-profit institutions. Governments
across the Region have also signed on to several international agreements related to Climate Change,
including: The Kyoto Protocol; UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC); UN Convention
on Biological Diversity (CBD); UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD); and Agreements
dealing with Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer
Protection, Ship Pollution and Whaling. Several regional and international agencies (including CCCCC,
CDEMA, UNDP, UNDP, FAO, CGIAR, CARDI, CARIBSAVE, and IICA) are also involved in the promotion of
Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) in the Caribbean Region and Latin America.
This section provides a summary of the current key policies and plans in each country, as well as
information on initiatives being undertaken in the Caribbean. A matrix summarizing recent and current
initiatives related to Climate Change in the Caribbean Region is also presented in the Appendix.
4.1 National Initiatives
Country Strategic Planning and Implementation Framework
1 Antigua & Barbuda National Economic and Social Transformation (NEST) Plan Antigua and Barbuda Food and Nutrition Security Policy FAO and IICA a Zero Hunger Challenge Integrating Watershed and Coastal Area Management (IWCAM) in the Small Island Development States (SIDS)
2 Barbados Barbados Medium Term Growth and Development Strategy (MDGS) 2013-2020 Medium Term Plan of the Ministry of Food, Fisheries and Water Resource Management National Strategic Plan for Barbados 2005-2025 The Barbados Fisheries Management Plan T Barbados National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan Barbados Green Economy Scoping Study (GESS) Barbados National Assessment Report 2010
3 Bahamas IICA Technical Cooperation Strategy in The Bahamas Agriculture Sectoral Plan for The Bahamas Bahamas National Policy for Adaptation to Climate Change Family Island Development Encouragement Agriculture Land Policy Caribbean Planning for Adaptation to Climate Change (CPACC) Mainstreaming Adaptation to Climate Change (MACC) First National Communication (FNC) on Climate Change Second National Communication (SNC) on Climate Change
4 Belize The GCCA CARIFORUM Support Program National Human Development Report (NHDR), “Think Change: Climate Change and Human Development”
31
‘Capacity Building for the Clean Development Mechanism’ implemented through the National Meteorological Service with support from the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). ‘Strengthening Institutional Capacities for Coordinating Multi-Sectoral Environmental Policies and Programmes’ implemented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Agriculture (MNRA) with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF). 3. ‘Belize’s Third National Communication Exercise’, implemented by the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and Sustainable Development with the support of UNDP - GEF.
5 Dominica Growth and Social Protection Strategy Dominica Low Carbon Climate Resilient Development Strategy 2012-2020; Draft National Food and Nutrition Policy and Plan of Action Agriculture DRM Plan 2014-2019 Draft Comprehensive Disaster Management Act National Export Strategy 2
nd National Communication on CC
National water policy Draft Climate Proofed Action Agriculture Strategy for the Livestock (Pigs, Poultry and Small Ruminants) and Roots and Tubers
Draft Country Roadmap for the Implementation of Climate Proofing Process for the Agriculture Sector Development Plan
6 Grenada Climate Change Policy and Action Plan 2007-2011; Land and Marine Management Strategy; Draft Land Use Policy for Carriacou; Grenada’s Growth and Poverty Reduction Strategy 2014-2018 National Policy and Strategy for Modernizing Agriculture National Hazard Mitigation Policy (2003) and Plan (2006) National Water Policy Road Map Toward Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Planning for Grenada Grenada's First National Communication on Climate Change (2000)
7 Guyana Guyana Low Carbon Development Strategy Vision 2013-2020 Food and Nutrition and Security Strategic Plan National Disaster Risk Management (DRM) Policy as associated strategic frameworks Agriculture DRM Plan, 2013-201; National Policy and Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Development of a National Climate Change Resilience/Adaptation Plan in the short term.
8 Jamaica Vision 2030 National Development Plan National Climate Change Policy and Action Plan Pilot Project on Climate Resilience (PPCR) The Food and Nutrition Security policy Agricultural Land Utilization Policy
9 St. Kitts & Nevis Plans include the National Disaster Management Plan, the National Adaptation Strategy & Action Plan (NASAP), the National Environmental Management Strategy (NEMS) the National Biodiversity Action Plan (NBSAP) the UNCCD National Action Plan (NAP) and the National
32
Communications on Climate Change.
10 St. Lucia Environmental Management Act (2000) 2004 Coastal Zone Management Policy National Biodiversity Strategies, Action Plan, and the First National Report to the Convention on Biological Diversity and Participation in the Pilot Phase of the CHM National Capacity Self-Assessment (NCSA) for Global Environmental Management Enabling Activity for the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) National Implementation Plan for St. Lucia
11 St. Vincent & the Grenadines
2013-2025 Development Plan which encapsulates the issues of Rio and the post 2015 UN Development Agenda. -- EU-funded Banana Accompanying Measures (BAM) aimed at Modernizing the Agriculture Sector. The 2012 draft Fisheries and Aquaculture Policy and Action Plan takes on board all relevant obligations set by the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES). St. Vincent and the Grenadines partners with the Caribbean Regional Fisheries Management (CRFM) to manage regional fish stocks. Further protection and management of coastal and marine resources is provided under the 2012 National Parks, and Protected Area system Plan (2010-2014).
12 Suriname National Agricultural Innovation Strategy. Important organizations/institutions in relation to environment management in Suriname:
Anton de Kom University of Suriname including the Faculty Technological Sciences
department Environmental Sciences, the Natural Resource Department for Environmental Assessment (NARENA), Center for Agricultural Research in Suriname (CELOS)
Foundation Planning Bureau Suriname
Foundation for Nature Conservation in Suriname (STINASU)
Bauxite Institute Suriname
Foundation for Forest Management and Production Control (SBB)
Foundation for a Clean Suriname (SvSS)
Movement for Eco-tourism in Suriname (METS)
Foundation for Tourism in Suriname (STS)
Indigenous and Maroon organizations
Human Rights Organization Moiwana`86
Inter-American Development Bank (IDB)
European Union (EU)
United Nations Development Program (UNDP)
World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
Conservation International Suriname (CIS)
13 Trinidad & Tobago The draft Watershed Management Policy The Environmental Management Act, Chapter 35:05 National Environmental Policy (NEP) (2006) National Climate Change Policy (2011) National Policy and Programmes on Wetland Conservation for Trinidad and Tobago (2002) National Protected Areas Policy (2011) National Forest Policy (2011)
33
4.2 Institutional Initiatives in Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA)
Note: the following information is a synopsis of presentations shared as Lead Papers in the Regional
Workshop in St. Lucia.
The FAO’s Work on / response to Climate Change in the Caribbean is focused in two areas:
1. Building Resilience at the regional, national and community levels
2. Promoting Climate Smart Agriculture
The FAO defines Climate Smart Agriculture as an approach to developing the technical, policy and
investment conditions to achieve sustainable agricultural development for food security under climate
change. (FAO, 2013)
CSA is composed of three main pillars:
The CSA Approach is a location-specific and knowledge-intensive. It strives to achieve multiple
objectives while prioritizing benefits and trade-offs; strengthens livelihoods by improving access to
services, resources and markets; and addresses adaptation and builds resilience to shocks.
Under the CSA approach, integrated options that create synergies and reduce trade-offs, as well as
barriers to adoption can be identified and appropriate solutions sought.
CGIAR/CIAT provided the following summary of CSA Categories and Practices in the table below:
34
FAO has assisted the Governments of Belize, Dominica, Jamaica and Guyana to develop Disaster Risk
Management Plans for the Agriculture Sector. In Grenada, assistance has also been provided to develop
methodologioes for land degradation assessment at local / national levels, enabling the identification of
hot spots and bright spots of land degradation.
Under the TCP-STL-3402 / TCP-STV-3402: Emergency assistance for the recovery of vulnerable farmers
affected by the December 2013 rains and winds (St. Lucia and St. Vincent and the Grenadines), inputs
were provided for recovery of farmer livelihoods, rehabilitation of affected riverbanks / riverbeds, and
promotion of CSA in affected communities.
A regional workshop to promote best practices in Climate Smart Agriculture technologies was held in Barbdos in 2012. The Report on Sustainable Production Practices can be accessed at the following link: http://www.fao.org/agriculture/crops/news-events-bulletins/detail/en/item/168279/icode/2/?no_cache=1
Under its Regional Project on Promoting CARICOM/CARIFORUM Food Security, FAO established
demonstration pilots throughout the region in irrigation and drainage technologies; and farmers and
Summary of CSA Categories and Practices
35
extension officers trained in the design, operation and management of irrigation systems was well as in
efficient water use technologies.
In collaboration with CDB and IICA, FAO has also conducted Feasibility Studies of Rainwater Harvesting
in Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Grenada, Dominica, Montserrat and Jamaica; trained extension
officers and farmers in Rainwater Harvesting technologies; and provided assessments of protected
agriculture technologies in the region, providing recommendations on retrofitting of existing structures
for efficiency.
In Grenada and St. Lucia, FAO established National Water Information Systems (NWIS) to strengthen
decision making through the provision of reliable data and information. NWIS is considered a best
practice and has now been adopted by Guyana, Jamaica and Barbados.
Both CIAT / CGIAR and IICA shared information on Tools and Instruments for application in CSA.
Caitlin Corner-Dolloff, Climate Change Adaptation Specialist, Decision and Policy Analysis (DAPA), with
the CGIAR shared information on a number of “Decision Support Tools for Scaling Out Climate-Smart
Agriculture”, which when applied to specific situations, could be used to make recommendations for
enhanced adaptive capacity in agricultural, natural resource management and food systems.
The Decision and Policy Analysis Program (DAPA) of CGIAR uses information for designing effective
policies in terms of investments in agricultural development and natural resource conservation and
management. Its goal is to contribute to IMPROVED decision making.
This is done by providing novel and accurate information about agricultural systems and associated
natural resources at all levels. In order to ensure that the rural poor benefit from both public and
private sector policies, DAPA of CGIAR also works with governmental and non- governmental
organizations through expert, disciplinary groups in Modeling, Gender analysis, Impact and Strategic
Studies, Policy Analysis, and Knowledge Management.
It is focused on delivering research outcomes in:
• Climate change (CRP7 - CCAFS) • Ecosystem Services (CRP5 - WLE) • Linking Farmers to Markets (CRP2 – PIM)
In collaboration with Future Earth, CGIAR is working within a framework of Climate Change, Agriculture,
and Food Security, to achieve enhanced adaptive capacity in agricultural, natural resource management
and food systems.
36
The absence of a clear set of metrics to evaluate CSA practices and analytical frameworks to guide
selection of promising practices has led to the establishment of CGIAR/CIAT’s CSA Prioritization
Framework and associated analytical tools
The key principle of the Framework is to make it stakeholder driven, and participatory, and equally, to
link to economic tools as the quantitative basis for prioritization (cost/benefit ratios). CGIAR/CIAT has
also developed a CSA Compendium which can be searched for articles, data and specific practices on
CSA.
CIAT has worked to develop a number of tools in collaboration with different decision making bodies –
such as donors and governments – to assist in identifying vulnerable areas to climate change and
practices to use to adapt to these changes. These include the Climate Wizard Tool and the Climate
Analogue Tool.
Climate Wizard Tool
The Climate Analogue tool
This Climate Analogue tool can be used to find areas in the world with similar current and future
climates. This can be helpful in assessing what types of practices might work in an area by seeing what
37
works in a location with a similar climate either now or in the future. It is also useful in narrowing down
the list of CSA practices or adding practices to the list that may not be immediately obvious.
Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim, Director of IICA’s Resilience Flagship project, spoke about IICA’s Role in
Developing Climate Smart landscapes. At the hemispheric and regional level, IICA’s primary role is in
providing information to decision makers of the benefits
of CSA, and promoting greater recognition of agriculture
in the UNFCCC.
With respect to Knowledge Management, IICA is
focused on systemization and dissemination of
information on good agriculture practices for climate
smart agriculture: including mixed crop/livestock
systems, agroforestry practices, organic farming, and
water use efficiencies. In the areas of agro-diversity and
biodiversity, the focus is on promotion of genetic
diversity using indigenous crop species (which have developed adaptive traits and have greatest genetic
variability and evolutionary flexibility) to develop agronomic traits for breeding-stable yields and
increasing adaptability.
At the policy level, IICA works to strengthen national capacities to develop public agriculture policies
that focus on small/ family agriculture; on incentives to promote for agrobiodiversity conservation and
climate smart practices, and minimize risk from climate change; and on inclusive agriculture insurance
schemes.
Over the last decade, the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute
(CARDI) in collaboration with national, regional and International agencies has been
working to ensure that agricultural producers in the Region could adapt to climate
change.
Agriculture is a significant contributor to carbon emissions and climate change, and as such the efforts
of CARDI are also geared towards promoting the implementation of practices which reduce its carbon
footprint and possibly provide income to the sector in relation to carbon trading.
CARDI’s Adaptation related activities in CSA include: enhanced climate risk management; improved and
resilient germplasm of food and forage crops; improved on-farm and soil water management systems;
38
protected agricultural systems; development of alternative livelihoods in agriculture; and training of
small farmers.
Mitigation related CSA activities include: Reducing agricultural emissions through the use of non-
synthetic products (Integrated Plant Nutrient Systems (IPNS) and Integrated Pest Management (IPM)
systems); Offset emissions from other sectors by removing CO2 from the atmosphere storing carbon in
soils (Integrated crop/livestock production systems; Increased use of organic manures; and use of
biochar).
The Technical Centre for Agriculture and Rural Cooperation (CTA) has been a key partner in CARDI’s
work in Climate Change and Agriculture, particularly in developing the technical strategies and
accompanying policies to achieve the needed climate resilience in various aspects of the agricultural
portfolio. Over the past 5 years CARDI/CTA have hosted the following workshops:
• In 2010 - Climate change and agriculture in the Caribbean: Protected Agriculture – An
adaptation option.
• In 2011 - Climate Change adaptation in Caribbean agriculture - Enhancing water resources
management.
• In 2012 - Development of climate smart agriculture policies that focus on the conservation,
sharing and utilization of key agro-biodiversity resources.
• In 2013 - Improving the policy framework for developing climate change resilient agriculture
systems in the Caribbean: Combating the threat of pest outbreaks under climate variability and
change
• In 2014 - Improving Climate Change Resilience in the Small Ruminants and Fisheries Industries in
the Caribbean
At the Regional Workshop, Mr. George Emmanuel of CARDI, St. Lucia indicated that CARDI’s work in St.
Lucia is focussed on the multiplication of root crop varieties for cassava, sweet potato and dasheen, and
improvement of varieties of hot peppers, ginger and other root crops. CARDI is also involved in the
preparation of technical packages for three vegetable crops: tomatoes, cucumbers and cucumbers using
soil-less media under protected systems. Packages include information on substrates to be used for
soilless media are being examined, pest data, ventilation and temperature management). CARDI is also
active in training farmers to use protected structures.
The Caribbean Farmers Network (CaFAN) and its members
are in the process of establishing CLIMATE SMART FAMILY
FARMS in each of its member countries which will serve as
a demonstration of the latest climate smart production,
management, marketing methods and also the use of ICT.
39
These farms would be operated like regular small business family farms except using climate smart
appropriate and cost effective methodology. The project would serve as a knowledge bank for
replication and sustainability.
CAFAN is developing the first phase models with its membership and partners are looking for
partnership, financing, technical assistance, and initial investment to create these self sustainable small
farm models. Initially, CAFAN intends to start with about 3-10 small farm families per country with the
involvement of government, private sector and research organisations, colleges and universities to
provide the basis for a participatory national experience.
Judi Clarke, Rwegional Director of CARIBSAVE (INTASAVE) described the work of the agency in
promoting Climate Change solutions and Sustainable Development. The project is based in the
Caribbean region, and there is a sister company called INTASAVE which works in Africa, Asia and Pacific.
The following projects are being undertaken by CARIBSAVE:
Caribbean Climate Change Risk Atlas (CCCRA): This project focuses on developing adaptation
options for maintaining national food security and for reducing the level of food imports for
tourism in fifteen Caribbean countries.
Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) study in Jamaica on
Climate Change and Agriculture: This project analysed the potential impact of climate change
on the agricultural sector in Jamaica.
Climate Change, Coastal Community Enterprises: Adaptation, Resilience and Knowledge (C-
ARK) Project: The objective of this project is to enhance climate resilience and business
sustainability in MSMEs (fisheries, agriculture, tourism, craft) across 8 coastal communities in
Jamaica, Belize, Barbados, and the Bahamas. It involves Sharing of good-practices; Training in
sustainable practices to build climate resilience; Training in sustainable business practices; and
Micro and small grants to adapt businesses or for community adaptation intervention.
The Caribbean Fish Sanctuary Partnership (C-Fish): This project focuses on encouragement,
empowerment and capacity- building of local stakeholders within Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St.
Vincent & the Grenadines to effectively self-manage their MPA environments and provide
technical and financial support to effectively manage fish sanctuaries in their respective
countries.
Greening Medium Small Micro Enterprises (MSMEs) in Barbados: The main objective of this
project is to assist micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) to reduce their business’
overall carbon footprint and facilitate livelihood changes that are economically and
environmentally sustainable. Activities included monitoring and calculating GHG emissions for
28 farmers; Training in sustainable business development and renewable energy technologies
40
such as bio-gas technology, PV, water harvesting and solar drying and provision of tailored
recommendations for each farmer.
Climate impacts and resilience in Caribbean agriculture: Assessing the consequences of
climate change on cocoa and tomato production in Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica (CIRCA)
o The University of the West Indies, St. Augustine and Mona (in partnership with CIAT,
CRC) used cutting edge technology and connected with farmers to “climate proof” the
agriculture sector.
o Activities included: Working with cocoa and tomato to establish a set of protocols that
can be used to screen tropical plants for resilience to drought and heat stress; Design of
the climate-proof screen; Creation of crop-climate models for cocoa and tomato plants;
and Establishing a facility that can test the resilience of different Caribbean growing
crops to climate change.
CARIBSAVE is also conducting a Vulnerability and Capacity Assessment (VCA) in Nickerie
district in Suriname to determine the impacts of projected climate change and climate variability
on the agriculture sector in the community. An impact assessment of climate change and
climate variability on the agriculture sector in Suriname will also be conducted, and the report
generated will be used to prepare a National Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan (NASAP) for
the agriculture sector.
In Barbados, CARIBSAVE is working with St. George Farmers’ Cooperative Project, on a project
to increase nationwide food security by improving the adaptive capacity of member farmers' to
adapt to climate change through the application of climate-smart agricultural practices. The
project’s objectives are:
To increase the community's awareness of the adverse effects of climate change and
beneficial impact of climate-smart agriculture
To measure changes in the level of the community's vulnerability to climate change by using
the VRA tool
To develop and implement at least 2 community-based adaptation solutions
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5. CASE STUDIES
The following case studies were developed for each of the countries studied. Some are presented in video format.
1 Antigua & Barbuda Gregory Bailey’s Fruit tree Farm
Ralph Iton’s Vegetable Farm
2 Barbados Hamilton Corbin’s Farm
Ronald Moore’s Vegetable Farm
3 Bahamas Luckner Timothee – Climate Smart Backyard Farming
4 Belize Mr. Albert Cho’s Silvo-Pastoral Farm
5 Dominica Organic Farming at Bellevue Chopin
6 Grenada Soil and Water Conservation, Ludbur
NorthEast Farmers Organization (NEFO)
7 Guyana Coping with Flooding in the Pomeroon River, Region 2 - The Case of Small Farmers
Harvesting Green Gold – Hydroponic Gardening in Guyana
8 Jamaica Action4Climate Sherwood Content http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0QaU944hNg
Farmer Field School (FFS) in Northern Clarendon, Jamaica
9 St. Kitts & Nevis Loretta Patrick’s Shadehouse
Emontine Thompson’s Mixed Farming Enterprise
10 St. Lucia Uraline Alphonse’s Broiler and Tree Crop Farm
Mervyn Stephen’s livestock and sweet potato farm
11 St. Vincent & the Grenadines
David Cain
Lennox Lampkin Integrated Organic Farm
12 Suriname 1st runner up award – Meest duurzane agrarisch bedrijf Suriname 2013 Andre Pita
Indigenous and Maroon Cropping Systems: The New Lombe Cluster (NLC) - Promoting Organic Agriculture in Saramacca, Suriname
13 Trinidad & Tobago Bruce Herbert, Hillside Farmer
Ramnarine Rampharay, Coastal Farmer
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ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
Case Study 1: Mr. Gregory Bailey
Gregory Bailey is the Project Coordinator/Focal Point for Projects in the Ministry of Agriculture and a
tree crop farmer. He manages a 5.9 acre farm, with a wide variety of fruit trees, which was started in
1999. He practises water harvesting techniques and mechanical weed control. Terracing of an additional
steeply sloping, fever grass covered area was completed in 2011. The sloping lands he manages in the
higher parts of the Body Ponds Watershed needed to be converted from fever-grass to more productive
uses. That transformation enabled him to develop a continuous source of future income.
He planted 2.5 acres of tree crops on the contours, constructed drains/water catchment and a small
pond to control run-off and keep back a certain amount of water for use on the farm. He managed the
associated fire risks with selective plant removal and simultaneous increase in the land area available t
cultivate more fruit trees. Without terracing, the land would have been much too steep to plant
conventionally and maintenance.
Case Study 2: Mr. Ralph Iton Henry
Ralph Iton Henry is a progressive well-organized farmer with several years experience doing intensive
open field vegetable production. He operates on two holdings but the 1-acre intensive plot is his main
location. He produces 10 vegetables viz. chive, thyme, cucumbers, sweet pepper, hot pepper, pimento
pepper, lettuce, spinach, tomatoes and squash. His plants are precisely placed as single bed multi-row
pure stands or as mutually supportive intercrops. Low volume irrigation and appropriately placed and
maintained emitters maintains a low water use regimen.
An effective packing house/shed enables him to package and deliver fresh same-day produce to drop in
customers, telephone orders or preferred outlets. Originally conceived as a lettuce production unit, the
demand outstripped the early concentration on Romaine, Red leaf and Iceberg lettuce. On farm
harvested water storage, strict adherence to phytosanitary protocols and a reputation for fresh, safe
vegetables has given Mr. Henry a competitive edge. He is articulate, knowledgeable and committed to
the sector.
Additionally, Messrs. Neil Gomes, Alvin Christian and Larry Francis provided well documented evidence
of the importance of water management to Climate=smart agriculture in Antigua. Mr. Gomes
demonstrated proper drip irrigation, Mr Christian harvested millions of gallons of water and Larry
Francis recycles and reuses harvested water in an aquaponic system.
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BAHAMAS
Using Climate-Smart Agriculture in Backyard Farming- Luckner Timothee
Luckner Timothee is a smallhold farmer living in Pinder’s Point on the island of Grand Bahama in The
Bahamas. He is farming less than an acre of land at his home. The site of his farm was previously used as
a local dump site for the settlement for about 20 years. Mr. Timothee’s farm can be considered to be in
an experimental phase, in that he is seeing which crops he can grow best before venturing into a
commercial operation. Over the past two years, he has been able to grow sufficient fruits and
vegetables to support his family to the point where they no longer need to purchase these items from
the grocery store. He also produces enough fruits and vegetables to participate in farmers’ markets on a
regular basis. Mr. Timothee believes that if “we can work together as a community, every backyard in
this country can grow something and we can produce enough food for our 300,000 plus population, but
we have to take charge”.
He is farming in 25 raised beds. He keeps trees to approximately
6 feet in height to maximize the space in his backyard. Currently
he is growing quite a number of fruits including lychee, passion
fruit, pomegranate, mango, papaya and grapes as well as
several herbal products, such as fever grass, mint and sour lime.
He currently has 125 banana trees on his farm. He is growing
different types of sugar cane which he uses for juices and is also
experimenting with producing wine. He is growing the weed
Purslane as a green because it contains omega 3 fatty acids. He
is also growing tomatoes, onions, cilantro, peppers,
watermelons, pumpkins, beans and corn. He plans to start
producing eggs, using mini fleur chickens from Belgium and
Leghorn chickens from central Italy.
Raised beds with pine bark mulch surround by rock rubble for weed control
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Mr. Timothee does not have an issue with water access. He uses potable city water and a pump to
provide groundwater from a well as well as rainwater catchment.
Some climate-smart methodologies that Mr. Timothee is employing include:
1. Maintaining soil moisture content by covering with pine
bark mulch. He obtains the mulch from the pine forests
nearby after a storm has passed and blown bark off the
trees. The pine bark is from the native Caribbean pine
(Pinus caribea). His philosophy is that “the sun and soil
should never kiss”, thus he covers his soil completely with
the mulch to ensure it does not dry out. The pine bark also contains some seashells which adds
calcium to the soil. If he did not mulch, he would lose soil as it would wash away during the rainy
season.
2. Mr. Timothee also uses grass clippings and pine needles
as mulch, but only the needles and clippings that have
been sitting for awhile and are not fresh. This type of
mulch must be tested from time to time because it can
sometimes spike the soil pH a little higher than it should.
Depending on the plant type or fruit tree, using this type
of mulch can have some negative effects. Mr. Timothee
has had most success with mulch made of leaves as it retains moisture and breaks down very
easily.
3. He uses rock rubble to keep weeds down instead of herbicides. The rubble has reduced his
weeding from daily to once every 2 months.
4. He uses compost produced from the organic waste in his garden (e.g. plants, leaves, leftover
fruits and vegetables) instead of synthetic fertilizers.
5. Crops are rotated in his beds to avoid disease and he keeps logs of what crops are grown per
bed so he knows when to rotate them.
6. Mr. Timothee is diversifying income from his farm by not only selling some of his produce, but
also offering tours of his backyard garden. The latter is actually the greatest source of income
for him at this time. He is currently working on producing a cookbook using the ingredients from
his backyard farm. Most of the meals are very simple, using seasonal crops from the farm, such
as sugar cane, banana leaf, carrots, okra, onions, basil, rosemary and collard greens. The
cookbook also includes recipes for beverages, such as coconut milk and different teas.
7. There are no synthetic chemicals used in his garden. He also uses no genetically modified seeds
or plants, but understands that if his neighbors are using them then his crops can be affected as
well. That is why he believes that teaching people to make informed choices will make the
farming community better.
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Mr. Timothee noted the importance of farmers’ markets in making buyers more aware about how their
food is grown (see photos below from Farmers’ Market in Grand Bahama). He feels that if buyers
request more foods grown organically, then farmers might be more inclined to start using more
methods such as climate smart agriculture.
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BARBADOS
Case Study 1: Mr. Hamilton Corbin
Background
Mr. Corbin has been a farmer on leased land for 15 years. Previous to this occupation, he worked as a
Pastry Chef in the Hotel Industry. Coming into a new profession with no prior experience, Mr. Corbin has
definitely benefited immensely from an approach that involves extensive research on all aspects of
farming. This accounts for many of his farming practices, which are not carbon copies of the standard
“chemical-based” approach to farming.
Mr. Corbin accessed his land through the Spring Hall Land Lease Project (SHLLP). This is a land
settlement scheme designed and facilitated by the Government of Barbados through the Barbados
Agricultural Development Marketing Corporation (BADMC) that allows farmers, who would not have
otherwise had the opportunity, to operate a farm and to provide income for their families. The project is
located on the government-owned Friendship plantation, in the northern parish of St. Lucy.
The project is made up of four hundred and twenty seven (427) acres, with twenty-seven (27) farmers
occupying the land. The sizes of the farms range from five (5) to twenty-seven (27) acres. There is one
(1) dairy operation, which utilizes sixty-eight (68) acres and can be a source of animal manure. The
irrigation water to the project is supplied by two wells commissioned to provide the irrigation water
needs of the project.
Approach to Farming
Mr. Corbin scores very high on our HNVI scores. HNVI Score: 73
Table 1: Summary of Scoring Points
Section Reporting Categories Score Percentage
1 Farmer personal and confidential data 20 100%
2 Farm Location 16 100%
3 Soil characteristics: 5 100%
4 Crops Grown (during the year) 22 73.3%
5 Local pest and disease pressure: 15 100%
6 Typical agronomic practices used on farm 11 20.4% 7 Fertilizing Practices 2 8%
8 Managing Crop Growth 55 55%
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His farm size is 10 acres, which is large by Barbados standards and requires the application of sound
management skills. This is former sugar cane farmland, and from casual observation, the soil quality
looks good which suggests that the soil has benefited from the subsequent practices.
He grows a variety of short-term crops including, cabbage; cassava; chives; corn; cucumber; lettuce;
melongene; pumpkin; ochro; patchoi; plantain; pumpkin; sweet Peppers; tomato; and watermelon.
These are all valuable commercial crops that are very sensitive to rainfall and weather patterns. His
reliance on subsidized water rates from the BADMC places his farm, like all other farming systems in
Barbados, in the vulnerable position of low service priority in a water-stressed country.
Table 2: Agronomic Practices Comments
Irrigation: Drip Irrigation Water Provided by BADMC; Little private catchment capability
Land Preparation Tractor (owns equipment) Evidence of good preparation
Soil Treatment Chemical treatment to suppress early weed growth; Ash; Compost; Manure
Ash good for cucurbits; Compost and manure building soil structure
Structural Land Changes Raised Beds Wind Breakers
Intercropping Melon with Cassava which provides a Wind breaker
Mr. Corbin has three areas of potential negotiable farming practices. The first is in his fertilizing systems.
His use of non-chemical inputs on his farm is commendable. The second is the current structure of
farming which does not accommodate much recycling of farm waste into nutrient-rich on-farm inputs.
Indeed the ratio of “off-farm” to “on-farm” inputs is high as is generally the case in Barbados with a high
dependence on importation of agricultural inputs.
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Table 3: Fertilizing Practices: Comments
Non-Chemical: Manure; Liquid Sea-weed; Nitro Plus 23; New Fol Cal
No on-farm inputs generation
Chemical: Urea; NPK Fertilizers Potash
Standard Practice focused on plants, not on succession qualities of the soil
Mr. Corbin’s regime of monitoring crop growth is the third negotiable practice. This ability to recognize
subtle changes in soil quality is a farming practice/habit that sets the stage for building meaningful
climate change resilience. This is further enhanced by his very useful focus on plant-quality succession
and rotational planting. He continues to benefit from on-line research on farm inputs.
Table 4: Managing Crop Growth: Comments
Monitoring Practices Observes soil microbial activity; Observes early crop growth; Maintains monitoring records; Tests soil quality
Attentive to soil quality within a framework that will observe subtle changes
Prevention Methods: Good focus on the Hygienic environment on the farm; Crop Rotation; Plant Diversity; Companion Planting
Very useful focus on plant-quality succession and rotational planting;
Chemical Inputs Used Very little evidence Researches effects of chemical inputs
Physical Controls: Barriers
Non-Chemical Methods: Garlic; Neem Oil; Phyton 27; Golden Pest Spray Oil
Mostly Purchased Inputs; No Home-made remedies;
CONCLUSION
Mr. Corbin is a young farmer who is dedicated to his profession with a zeal for knowledge and
information. While he may not have brought farming skills from his previous profession, he is surely
making use of the organizational management skills and knowledge acquisition from his former employ.
Such a disposition augurs well for a farm that will have to continuously seek new strategies to adapt to
the impact of climate change.
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Case Study # 2: Mr. Ronald Moore
Background
Mr. Moore has three characteristics that attract our attention, namely his background, his location and
his technology. Mr. Moore has worked extensively in Sales, Marketing, Research and Development in
the tourism sector. He has only recently (within the last 4 years) started to apply his accumulated skills
and experiences to farming.
Mr. Moore operates a typical small Barbadian farm, in both size and origin. His farm size is 1.5 acres
located in the Salters Tennantry. The term “Tennantry” identifies small holdings that are located on the
perimeter of an estate from which it gets its name.
The attractive aspects of Mr. Moore’s farming technology are two-fold. He operates both protected
agriculture systems and open field farming; and secondly he has modified his irrigation system into a
fertigation system.
Approach to Farming
Mr. Moore scores reasonably high on our HNVIndex Score: 80
Table 1a: Summary of HNVI Scores
Summary of Scoring Points
Section Reporting Categories Score Percentage
1 Farmer personal and confidential data 20 100%
2 Farm Location 16 100%
3 Soil characteristics: 5 100%
4 Crops Grown (during the year) 26 86.7%
5 Local pest and disease pressure: 13 86.7%
6 Typical agronomic practices used on your farm 19 35.2%
7 Fertilizing Practices 11 44%
8 Managing Crop Growth 50 50%
Mr. Moore’s farm is set in a semi-residential area. Tennantry lots are not restricted to farming and as
such the land use pattern around his farm varies from farmsteads to residences. His soil appears to be a
medium coarse loam, which should not have the best of water retention qualities. His cropping pattern
is varied, including, cabbage; chive; hot peppers; cucumber; lettuce; pumpkin; plantain; onions; string
beans; sweet peppers; and tomato. All of these crops can be produced equally well in protected
structures as well as in open fields. However, given their sensitivity to rainfall and other climatic
seasonality, the experience of protected agriculture becomes very useful as an alternative method in the
future.
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Agronomic Practices
Table 2a: Agronomic Practices
Irrigation: Drip Irrigation
Land Preparation: Tractor and Hand Ploughing Evidence of good preparation
Soil Treatment: Compost; Chicken Manure Material building soil structure
Structural Land Changes: Hedge: Raised Beds; Wind Breakers
Perimeter Separation from non-farm land uses
Mr. Moore uses mostly commercial farm inputs. There is very little evidence of recycling of farm
residues. As such we can assume that the ratio of off-farm to on-farm inputs remains conventionally
high. While this farming system can cope with variations in seasonal patterns, it is still very dependent
on the water supplies of the Barbados Water Authority. Fortunately being located in a semi-residential
area, means that the farm also has access to limited water supplies which will be inseparable from the
residential demand of its adjacent properties. While the farming system is not designed to indicate any
minimum changes in microbial activity in the soil, succession and rotational planting, should continue to
contribute to healthy communities of soil organisms.
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Table 4a: Managing Crop Growth: Comments
Monitoring Practices
Maintains monitoring records; Observes early crop growth
Minimum attention to soil microbial activity
Prevention Methods:
Good focus on the Hygienic environment on the farm; Crop Rotation and Encouraging Predator/prey relationships;
Succession and rotational planting; Little Companion planting
Physical Controls: Artificial Guards; Barriers
Non-Chemical Methods:
Neem Oil; Phyton 27
Purchased Inputs; Little Biological Controls; No Home-made remedies;
Conclusion
Mr. Moore’s farm illustrates two major lessons. The first is that profitability of farming in Barbados is not
a function of farm size. With a significant local and visitors’ demand, the market for fresh farm produce
should remain vibrant. Secondly, building Climate Change Resilience among agricultural producers,
would require a comprehensive capacity building approach, with the objective of empowering
producers to cope with a hazardous events or disturbances, to respond to or reorganize in ways that
maintain their essential function, identity, and structure, while learning to adapt and transform their
environment.
BELIZE
Mr. Cho’s farm is established on 12 acres . Seventy percent (70%) is hill side (hilly) and marginal land
which is not ideal for agricultural production or animal rearing. He also has 23 acres of forested land
inaccessible for agriculture. His production system includes 175 pigs, 25 sheep, 2 goats and 25 chickens
in a successful attempt to integrate farming or livestock systems with the implementation of silvo-
pastoral practices such as live fences, fodder banks, improve pasture species, dispersed trees and
alternative water sources as measures for adaptation to climate variability and change.
Mr. Cho has introduced the infrastructure for built-in resilience
in his farm. He constructed a bio-digester to harvest energy
from his sizable pig pen; the energy used would be to prepare
animal feed in existing coal heated caldrons and also to
provide the home with cooking gas to reduce coal (firewood)
use. He dedicated an area so as to establish a protein bank and
forage bank with at least 800 ft of fence to keep out the sheep.
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Although Mr. Cho’s farm suffered damages from Hurricane Richard, his entire approach has allowed him
to easily identify the efforts he has to make to bring back the farm to production level. He asked that a
water system be the main objective of any assistance because he has to truck in 1000gals of water
weekly to provide for his pigs and sheep (washing of pen, cooking, and water for animals) and his
household. He would also need a forage chopper to prepare the cane cuttings, mulberry, Taiwan grass
and nacedero before feeding animal. At present, he feeds mostly concentrated grains.
Mr. George Cho feeding sheep and pigs with mulberry and leuceana forage from his established energy
and protein bank.
Interviewer: What has been the impact of the changes on the economy of the farm?
George Cho: Well, before, I would give the pigs and sheep a feed concentrate, for which I spent about
3,000 BZD per week. In addition, each week I’d have to haul 1,000gls of water from the village (a
distance of about 10 km), which cost the farm 100 BZD. Now, I spend about 1,500 BZD a month on pig
and sheep feed. I feed the pigs milk whey and cooked chicken intestines and four days a week I feed them
170 kg of sugar cane, 170 kg of chopped mulberry and half the feed I used to use before. I give the male
sheep 170 kg of a mixture of grass (Cameroon or Marafalfa) and Leucaena, and the days that I don’t give
the animals mulberry, I take them out to pasture. Since I built the watering point 11 months ago, I have
not had to haul any water from the village.
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Mr. George Cho receiving visits from other small livestock farmers in training on climate smart practices for resilience to drought and flooding conditions. Photo on left depicts a demonstration on the importance and use of a forage choppers to increase feed availability for small ruminants. On the right, Mr. Cho shows the sugarcane, mulberry and leuceana forage from his established energy and protein banks. (Left picture: taken by extension officer Mario Howe. Right picture: taken by David Tzul for CATIE small farmer climate resilience training)
Results:
Mr. George Cho was able to reduce his initial production costs to half by improving the use of the farm’s
existing resources, carrying out sustainable soil practices for livestock production, vegetable farming and
agro-forestry and subsequently increasing his resilience to extreme climatic conditions (drought) by
establishing a water catchment system. In addition to the benefits received through the intervention
Mr. Cho’s farm is considered a model farm and has been used for many training and farm
demonstration activities. The farm is now used in efforts to advocate for public, private and
international organizations on promoting sustainable management and best practices for climate
resiliency.
A recent field visit received through the GCCA Pilot 3 project designed to develop resilience in livestock
farmers took advantage of Mr. Cho’s farm for the promotion of participative methodologies by hosting
25 farmers. Methodologies such as such as the ‘Farmer Field Schools’ (FFS) approach and effective tools
like farm management plans are showcased on his farm so as help improve farming families’ land
management knowledge and skills (David Tzul 2014). Farmers were able to observe the use of improved
technologies such as bio-gas systems, the functionality of a farm plan implemented for more than 3
years, the usefulness of forage plants for both protein and energy, livestock structures for the adequate
management of animals and fertilizer use, a motor-operated chopper/shredder to mill forage type feed
for improved palatability and efficiency and the construction of a water catchment pond to collect and
store rain water. Visits made to improved farms like these aids in capacity building when addressing the
effects of climate change for the well-being of producers and communities.
DOMINICA
ORGANIC FARMING AT BELLVUE CHOPIN
The Problem
It is widely agreed that agrochemicals, if used appropriately can increase productivity and address
inherent deficiency in soil fertility. Albeit this, synthetic chemicals are also linked to health problems, soil
and water pollution and possible loss of revenue if not utilized according to recommended best
practices. Cognizant of the negative effects of chemical input, farmers are driven to find solutions that
are more in harmony with the natural ecological balance, while fostering long term health and
wellbeing.
The Solution
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Organic farming!
Green and dry grasses are collected from farms and along the road. These are shredded in a machine. A
heap of dry grass is first placed on the ground to set the foundation. Green grass is then added, with
alternate layers of dry grass and animal dung. The pile is watered regularly. It is turned every seven days,
and new layers are added in the same manner as before. This occurs for five weeks. The pile is then left
for up to eight to 10 weeks with routine turning to allow for effective decomposition. Once material is
properly decomposed, the resultant composted is passed through a shredder for further refining. It is
then ready for use.
For every two piles of compost created, about 45 gallons of rain water is utilized. Each pile creates on average 100 to 150 pounds of usable compost.
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GRENADA
SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION IN LUDBUR, ST. ANDREW’S
Brief Background
The farming community of Ludbur, St. Andrew’s is involved in cluster farming and comprises 28 farmers
with lots ranging in size from approximately 1- 2 acres. Most of the farmers are involved in vegetable
production intercropped with a variety of tree crops including citrus, bananas and coconuts.
The Problem
Farming is the main source of livelihood for the majority of Ludbar farmers but farm productivity is
affected by specific vulnerabilities including location i.e. steep slopes with highly erodible soils and
strong winds; also difficulty in accessing discourage visits by Extension Officers. Another challenge that
farmers experience is depleting river sources for irrigation.
The Solution
Soil and water conservation is very crucial to their sustainability and is one of the leading climate smart
solutions practised on the farms of Ludbar. The farmers with the support from MoA and FAO have
implemented a number of soil conservation practices such as check dams and grass barriers. The
farmers are also involved in contour farming, mulching, minimum tillage practices and the use of organic
manure. In 2013, in an effort to deal with extended drought periods MoA through it SLM project funded
by GEF and UNDP established a pilot demonstration water harvesting system with the object of
encouraging adoption of the technology by the farmers of the community and visiting farmers.
Inadequate funding however resulted in the use of their original sprinkler systems, as drip irrigation
could not be afforded.
Rainwater harvesting and Use of organic composts in Ludbur
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Case Study #2: CASE OF NORTH EAST FARMERS ORGANIZATION (NEFO)
Brief Background
NEFO is known as one of the most active farmer organizations throughout the island of Grenada. They
are affiliated with the Caribbean Farmers Network (CaFAN). NEFO has ties and arrangements with
numerous institutions including MoA, MNIB, and MAREP, to name a few. The farmers of NEFO are
mainly involved in crop production and livestock enterprises including poultry, pigs, goats, sheep, cattle
etc. NEFO also has a subset group called the “Reef Guardian Farmers” who are involved in protecting the
Moliniere-Beausejour MPA. They are also known to be the only reef guardian farmers throughout the
Caribbean. The top skills possessed by the organization are networking, working with other farmer
associations and promoting leadership.
The Problem
In a market-driven economy, NEFO has the challenge of operating in a business-like fashion and lacks
the necessary technology such as a simple computer system to maintain proper documentation of data
especially to track productivity and to provide information requested by NGOs, government entities,
consultants and other stakeholders. Also MoA extension services are increasingly limited, thus NEFO has
to assume more advisory responsibilities in the future particularly as it relates to CSA.
The Solution
NEFO’s autonomy is one that is allowing the organization to becoming self-sufficient, especially in the
absence or scarcity of funding and MoA extension. NEFO has six administrative staff including a
President: Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, PRO and Marketing Coordinator. NEFO unlike most
groups has a clear vision with set objectives to:
Contour Farming and Grass Barriers
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Strengthen the organizational skills of members
Encourage a spirit of social and environmental responsibility among members;
Create awareness among members of issues of importance to the sector and to the improvement of their livelihoods;
Maintain/Strengthen leadership skills;
Organize the production and marketing of members; and
Provide for the development of the organization.
One of NEFO’s strengths is good leadership and potential leadership development among women and
youth; they are thus able to take on a number of beneficial approaches to sustaining the organization
and increasing their resilience to the effects of climate change and variability. NEFO works to ensure
that their members are sensitized to be more self-reliant rather than to be dependent on external
parties to provide resources.
Although NEFO lacks a computer system for the organization, they have developed two strategies to
temporarily overcome the challenge: (1) they use the traditional manual recording and filing system
which is stored at their office; and (2) they use their personal computers to do correspondence via E-
mail and to prepare reports among other related duties.
Finally NEFO serves as a support system for its farmers. NEFO represents the interests and collective
voice of farmers in key policy consultations and processes. Within the group they offer their own
extension solutions such as farmer to-farmer training or advice on Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs).
NEFO encourages its members to understand their area’s condition and to apply the appropriate CSA
practices. NEFO takes pride in their maroon system which they consider very helpful in coping with the
many challenges involved in farming such as lack of labor and drought. The activities of the maroon
system vary according to what the farmer needs to get done. Farmers use their own equipment in the
process so reducing the cost of labor and ultimately improving productivity. The camaraderie involved is
very important to them as it builds their relationship, trust and confidence as a group.
Left:NEFO Farmers. Right: NEFO with IFAD consultant in maroon activity
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GUYANA
Case Study #1: Video: Empoldering in the Pomeroon (go to link provided to view entire video)
300 farmers of Little Try Best devise their own plans for saving their 368 acres by creating earth dams
(empolders), canals and drainage systems to prevent flooding and protect their crops by mapping their
production áreas and working together with a common visión.
Case Study #2: Video: Harvesting Green Gold – Hydroponics Farming in Guyana (go to link provided to
view entire video)
A story of 2 Guyanese families, Sookraj and Waldron families and their experiences in using hydroponics
and protected agricultura to overcome the negative impacts of climate change on vegetable production.
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JAMAICA
The Jamaica Case study is of the Farmer Field School (FFS) in Northern Clarendon, Jamaica. The FFS has
sought to reduce erosion, support agroforestry and promote climate change awareness in the respective
communities. Climate smart practices include:
o contour planting; o cover cropping; o companion planting, and; o utilizing trash barriers and individual catch basins
Vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies
Farmer Field School is considered to be an innovative method of transferring technology and knowledge
among farmers. Run by ACDI VOCA (partners MoAF; USAID) aimed at reducing soil erosion, support
agroforestry and promote climate change awareness in the respective communities
Several innovative techniques promoted:
o contour planting
o cover cropping
o companion planting
o trash barriers and individual catch basins.
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ST. KITTS/NEVIS
Case Study #1: Ms. Loretta Patrick
Ms. Loretta Patrick and Ms. Emontine Thompson were the two producers best placed to represent the
Federation in terms of adaptive and mitigative improvements on their respective farms. Neither
disappointed at the workshop in St Lucia, September 2-3, 2014. Both ladies articulated the types of
concerns that can be addressed by an appropriate regional project with location-specific national
components.
Ms. Loretta Patrick operates a Shade house in Tabernacle where she grows tomato and sweet pepper.
She is seen as a model farmer with the Ministry of Agriculture endorsing her operations and hoping that
more families and farmers would embrace that type of farming to improve both yield and quality. She is
a farmer and agro-processor producing dried fruit delicacies, namely gooseberries and guava cheese,
which is packaged and labeled locally then sold mostly in Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Mrs. Patrick
grows most of the crops and raw material for her agro processing products and gets help from the
community who provide her with the gooseberries for her production. Water availability also affected a
community project in which she was involved, a link (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9u4-
jSTggbo&feature=youtube) is provided for the electronic version of this report and a QR code for the
printed report.
Rainwater harvesting is a major feature of operations on the Patrick Farm. The catchment pond serves
the additional purpose of fish rearing with the possibility of a semi-aquaponic system with nutrient-rich
water used to irrigate the crop. She is an outspoken member of her community and will do justice to the
opportunity to further influence the nature of the proposed IFAD project.
Case Study #2: Ms Emontine Thompson
Ms. Thompson currently farms about seven acres of land at Prospect and Brown Hill, and is widely
regarded as an inspirational model farmer in Nevis. She has been officially recognized by the State and
by her peers. In 2014 she was named as the Patron of the 20th Annual Agriculture Open Days hosted by
the Department of Agriculture on Nevis. Members of the farming community have recognized her
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prowess in the field of agriculture as she has been the President of the Nevis Growers Association for
the past 18 years. The Nevis branch of the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis has been quoted
with respect to the statement that the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis has a large farming
portfolio primarily due to Mrs Thompson’s efforts and example. She works closely with the Bank to
ensure that Nevis attains food security.
Mrs Thompson participates in the St. Croix Agriculture Exhibition in the US Virgin Islands where she has
won the title for the best off-island exhibits on four occasions. All of this is testimony to the level of
innovation she is prepared to introduce to her mixed farming enterprise including water harvesting,
germplasm assessment for climate resilience, energy savings and appropriate use of organic, non-fossil
fuel based inputs. No stranger to the responsibility of representation, she was a dynamic and articulate
addition to the elucidation of worthwhile project interventions.
ST. LUCIA
Case Study 1: Ms. Uraline Alphonse
Ms. Uraline Alphonse runs a broiler operation and manages a tree crop farm within which her apiary is
located. The apiary requires no external feed source due to specifically and strategically planted
flowering trees and shrubs. The three, 3000-head units facilitate the rearing of 9000 birds and there is a
separate brooder pen. She is knowledgeable and willing to innovate. In the absence of a support
structure she has independently attempted to diagnose and correct on-farm problems. She produces a
6lb bird in six weeks and maintains quality standards. Her adaptations are primarily to reduce heat
stress on the birds and involve both structural and procedural elements. She sells the manure/litter and
uses a deep sand system as an additional heat reducing measure.
Tree crops include cocoa, coconuts and citrus. Although production has declined somewhat due to the
heat stresses, the farm is still viable. Biological weed control is effected with sheep and horses.
Rainwater harvesting is accomplished from the rooftops of al farm buildings and stored above ground in
1000 gallon tanks. Additionally, she cultivates dasheen, pineapples, peppers and lemon grass.
Case Study 2: Mr. Mervyn Stephen
Mr. Stephen’s farm is primarily a sheep and goat operation with a rabbitry and sweet potato production
areas. His farm in Millet, Roseau boasts specially designed hurricane-resistant structures. His two
holdings are both in Roseau with one on the river plain and the other on the hillside. He is the President
of The St Lucia Small Ruminants Cooperative Society Ltd, which was founded on May 10th 2010. It has
42 registered members but it represents the interests of many more stakeholders and farm families. Its
primary goal is to improve the socio-economic status of its members through sustainable production
methods capable of weathering global climatic changes. He provides leadership with regard to
adaptation, increased awareness and behavioural change amongst his members. He has been an
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advocate of increased vigilance with regard to pest migration, invasive species and riverine stabilization.
He and his members use very little fossil-fuel dependent fertilizers - they use manures and pen litter.
He has been successfully promoting the introduction of miniature zebu animals as an alternative to the
large ruminants. They are easier to handle, trample the soil less, and produce less greenhouse gas
emissions. His farmers’ small holdings cannot sustain conventional cattle which are too large. They
require expensive housing and fencing to contain them, the ecological impact due to high methane
production, physical impact on soil, high forage requirement and extensive land resources for
sustainable grazing. It is also very difficult and sometimes dangerous to handle these huge animals
making it difficult for family members to assist in production.
On the other hand Miniature Zebu are small, between 350 lbs to 600 lbs, ecological impact is minimal,
waste products are much lower, and there is barely any impact on soil because of their weight.
Expensive fencing/housing is not needed - 4 to 5 animals can be kept in a small area, they are easier and
safer to handle due to their size (animals are between 42" to 48" tall). Daily feeding ration is about 10lbs
compared to 25lbs for regular cattle per animal. The introduction of this type of cattle will assist in
improving the socio-economic status of the Coop's members by providing them with a sustainable
method to produce beef and milk which will complement their production of mutton and chevron.
ST. VINCENT & THE GRENADINES
Mr. Dave Cain and Mr. Lennox Lampkin are two producers adapting to, and attempting to mitigate the
impacts of climate Change.
Case Study #1: Mr. Dave Cain
Mr Dave Cain is a farmer in his mid-forties from the village of Dauphine. He has been a farmer since his
teenage years. As a young man he assisted his parents before going to school on mornings and again on
afternoons. He now manages 7 acres of farm land.
Approximately 15 years ago Mr. Cain decided to fill the need for a constant supply of vegetables to the
local market. He realized that having a controlled environment would ensure this constant supply. Mr.
Cain has met this need by using some of the most environmentally sound methods of crop production
including the use of shadehouses and other protected structures.
His first greenhouses were in close proximity to his home on his family’s 2 acre plot however, that was
not sufficient to sustain his planned expansion. He increased his production capacity by purchasing
additional plots at Argyle. He is very knowledgeable with respect to Climate Change and its current and
potential impacts on food security and rural livelihoods. He has assured that the other farmers he
currently employs have a grasp of the adaptations that will be necessary for future production. As the
business grew he expanded his workforce by 15 additional farmers. His workers were all traditional
farmers but they have now been trained in the production of food in this controlled environment.
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Mr. Cain supplies tomatoes, sweet pepper, lettuce and cucumber to numerous persons in SVG. His
products are sold at two of the largest supermarkets in St.Vincent, viz. C.K Greaves and Bonadie. He also
supplies numerous hotels in the Grenadines. His products are also used by several fast food businesses
in St Vincent.
Mr. Cain’s business contributes to climate change reduction in various ways. He prides himself in the use
of only organic fertilizers, thereby reducing his use of fossil fuels. He is efficient in the use of water,
advocates for water harvesting which he practices himself and prevents the contamination of nearby
rivers. His seedlings are produced on his farm and that reduces the travel miles associated with his
inputs and eventually on the production of food from his farm. Although he has been doing excellent
work in reducing impacts he is being directly impacted by the construction of the airport at Argyle. Wind
damage to his protected structures has now been compounded by dust from the construction site. His
plants and structures are constantly coated with photosynthesis-reducing and contaminant-bearing
dust.
Mr Cain is ideally placed to contribute to a regional response to the current and potential threat of
climate change impacts. Although he was unable to attend the St Lucia workshop his concerns were
articulated during the Consultant’s reportage,
Case Study #2: Mr. Lennox Lampkin
Mr. Lampkin is arguably the most influential farmer in St Vincent. He has been an outspoken exemplar
and champion of all natural farming. His farm is an electronically-shared work in progress where all the
recommended innovations associated with Climate-smart agriculture can be seen. He writes a blog and
hosts a network St. Vincent & The Grenadines Chamber of Agriculture & Nutrition that boasts 1,952
members as at August 6, 2014. He uses no agrichemicals, practices reduced tillage, harvests rainwater,
and incorporates the rearing of rabbits in to his nutrient recycling Low External Input Sustainable
Agriculture (LEISA).
He has stabilized the sloping lands on his farm, utilized solar and wind power and willingly shares his
experience with school children and adult learners. Whereas the majority of farmers have just bought in
to pasture demarcation and management, he has been suggesting the feeding of indigenous and
improved grasses and vegetation. His crop rotations build rather than diminish the soil and there is the
deliberate composting of organic matter on the farm. Mr. Lampkin’s impact was recently highlighted in
terms of the following five categories as part of a report compiled by CARDI for the CTA. The categories
were wealth /capital appreciation, political empowerment, human technical empowerment, social
capital, and improvement of the natural environment.
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SURINAME
Indigenous and Maroon cropping systems in Suriname
The Indigenous and Maroon groups survived in the hinterlands not only through agricultural activities,
hunting and fishing, but also through substantial trade and logging.
The rain fed slash and burn system is the predominantly farming type in the hinterlands. Small farmers
of the interior do cultivate cash crops and collect non timber forest products. These farmers use a large
number of varieties from a specific crop, to minimize decline of the produce.
The main cash crops grown are cassava (Manihot esculentum), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) and
upland rice (Oryza sativa). Fruits and quite recently vegetables and beans have been added to the
production mix. Mixed cropping is common in the interior, however there are farmers who are mainly
cultivating for the market and have either pure pineapple (Ananas comosus) or bitter cassava (M.
esculentum) fields.
Both the Indigenous and Maroon communities acknowledge the importance of their traditional mixed
cropping field, mainly for subsistence, as well as large parcels grown with one crop (non- traditional in
monoculture), especially for the market.
Since farming in these communities depends on rainfall, the seasonal conditions are crucial for their
agricultural activities.
The farming systems from a Maroon village (the New Lombe cluster) and an Amerindian village (Matta)
are explained.
Case Study #1: Njun Lombé Cluster
The New Lombe Cluster (NLC) is situated in the Brokopondo district on the east bank of the Suriname
River, about 150 km south of the capital Paramaribo. The inhabitants from this village belong to the
Saramaccan tribe, one of the six Maroon tribes in Suriname. The selection of the parcel is planned
several months to one year in advance. When the man has found a parcel he will discuss this matter
with his spouse, sometimes the woman will even confer it with her mother (family head). When the
woman and the family head have agreed upon the choice of the parcel, the forest can be cut.
Burning is an important part of this stage, transforming the nutrients into a form that will become easy
to the plants to take up. However, as easy as it is to be taken by the plants, it also can be wasted by
evaporation and leaching when a heavy rain washes away the material. Farmers have stated that the
average person has a large and a small plot during one year that will be cultivated with a mixture of
crops.
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Case Studsy #2: Matta
Matta is an Arawak village in the Para district. The village is situated about about 10 km to the west of
the international airport of Zanderij and 60 km from the capital Paramaribo. Traditions of hunting,
fishing, gathering and shifting cultivation are to be found as yet in the community. Matta recognizes a
year round harvest of cassava, as well as the more concentrated harvest of pineapple and passion fruit.
The selection of a parcel is often planned several months to one year in advance. The selection of the
parcel is strategically chosen; not too far from the actively cultivated site; transport of plant material
from one site to another, maintenance of the field, and harvest crops are all considered. In general a
plot is cultivated for about two years, and abandoned; crops that still fruit will be harvested. A clean plot
is felt to minimize the competition for nutrients between crops and weed. Charcoal will function as
fertilizer and prevent the plants from diseases. After the period of planting, the parcel will be cleaned
usually on daily bases until the plant can grow on their own without unwanted vegetation.
Alley Farming Systems
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TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
The case studies examine two farmers who are in two distinctly different agricultural environments, but
who have adopted their farming systems in response to the pressing issues that they have faced over
their years of farming.
While their approach focuses on different features of climate resilient farming, their common strategy is
to minimize their risks by planting several species and varieties of crops, stabilize their land resource
over the long term, and maximize returns even with low levels of technology and limited resources.
Case Study #1: Mr. Bruce Herbert: Small Hillside Farmer
Mr. Herbert is a small farming occupying land in the Marcas/St. Joseph Valley. He has been operating
his farm for over 20 years, without a lease from the State. His farm comprises 3 acres on very steep
slope. There is thick forest cover above his elevation and the soil is a coarse sandy loam.
His core crops include 11 short-term crops; Cabbage; Cassava; Corn; Lettuce; Melongene; Patchoi;
Pimento Peppers; Plantain; Pumpkin; Sweet Peppers; and Tomato. All of these are grown for marketing
purposes. The original forest cover has been replaced by tree crops, including Breadfruit; Shatine;
Avocado; Mango; and Citrus.
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His farm is rain-fed which limits his production during extended dry seasons. To maintain stability of the
soil he does his ploughing by hand, grows his crops on raised contour beds horizontal to the slope of the
land and he seeks to channel water running down the mountain into deep ditches so that it exits his
farm without disrupting the structure of the beds. Mr. Herbert practices planting by moon cycles, which
provides structure to his planting schedule. He relies on increase plant diversity and crop rotation to
reduce the pressure from disease/pests/ insects that arise from time to time. Weeding is also done by
hand.
Mr. Herbert relies heavily on chemical fertilizers to boost his productivity, but has no knowledge of the
use of non-chemical inputs, with the exception of limestone, to maintain fertility and good soil structure.
At his altitude, Mr. Herbert believes that the prevailing winds will provide a temperate affect on any
changes in temperature. His water channels are deep enough to channel intense rainfalls and his
terraces (benches) protect him from serious erosion.
Mr. Herbert is a farmer who believes that he is achieving some degree of climate change resilience
though his investment in physical structures on his farm. He does not see the possibility of changing his
farming practices to build resilience through new relationship between farming components and the
functioning of the ecosystem.
Case Study #2: Mr. Ramnarine Rampharay: Small Coastal-Bay Farmer
Mr. Rampharay cultivates 32 different crops and also a fish pond with tilapia on 5 acres of land in the
Maracas Bay area. Most of these crops are used to supply in his family’s nutritional diets with the major
vegetable crops being marketed for cash
Mr. Rampharay is located in a low level flat area just 100 metres from the sea and the famous Maracas
beach. His farm is susceptible to flooding from the runoff from the mountains rather than from an
intrusion of salt water from the sea. On the other hand, during the dry season when the streams are
very low, he is unable to pump water from this source to his farm.
To counter this problem Mr. Rampharay has constructed watercourse channels which are used both to
bring water closer to his production and also to block flooding of his fields in times of very intense
rainfalls. His tree-crops which include citrus, fruits, also act to some degree as wind breakers for the
short-term crops
Mr. Rampharay’s landscape of his farm is covered with turf grass. This grass is prolific, keeps moisture
below the root level and allows easy traversing of all parts of the farm without one’s boots picking up a
lot of mud and making the place impassable.
Mr. Rampharay cultivates over 32 varieties of crops and trees. His most economic crops include;
Cabbage; Cassava; Cauliflower; Chives; Cucumber; Lettuce; Melongene; Patchoi; Pimento Peppers;
Plantain; Pumpkin; String Beans; Sweet Peppers and Tomato. His trees include Breadfruit, Tamarind,
Chatagne, Custard Apple, Citrus, Clove.
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He considers his pressure on disease and weeds to be high but pest and insects to be low. He uses both
tractor and hand ploughing methods and treats his soils with both chemical and biological inputs,
including compost and manure. Similarly his fertilizing methods are a combination of chemical and non-
chemical inputs.
Mr.
Mr. Rampharay considers his monitoring and prevention methods as a key component of his ability to
continuously adjust to changes in the conditions for crop growth. He makes observation of both soil
microbial activity and early crop growth. His prevention methods include improving the hygiene on the
farm, increasing plant diversity, crop rotation and using the marigold and other flowers among his
plants. He considers this one measure that contributes to his low insect/pest pressure.
Mr. Rampharay believes that the impact of climate change will most likely be amplified by the activities
of hunters and shifting cultivators on the mountain above his farm.
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6. RECOMMENDATIONS
The following areas were identified at the Regional Workshop by the participants, as priority issues
for smallholder production in improving adaptation and building resilience to climate change
impacts:-
6.1 Priorities Identified by Stakeholders
Water availability and water management, with a focus on water harvesting and irrigation
systems.
Drainage technology - given the likelihood of increased flooding events.
Technology (tools and instruments) and equipment for climate change adaptation.
Capacity building for the production and use of organic fertilizers
Land tenureship, land use management and watershed management
Methods for examining the feasibility of different adaptation and mitigation measures within
the context of the differing farm sizes.
Management of information on climate change and approaches to addressing its challenges.
Financing for climate smart agriculture.
Improvement in analytical skills, particularly as they relate to addressing the direct and indirect
causes of climate change.
User-friendly climate information, which farmers can understand and apply, and innovation in
rural extension systems for sharing of information on climate smart interventions.
Research and development on adaptation of crops to different agro-ecological zones, and on-
farm demonstrations will could provide farmers with an opportunity to see firsthand how
innovations could provide real and beneficial results in their particular situations
Innovations in crop insurance for smallholder agriculture
Promotion of cooperatives/farmers groups
Development of appropriate soil management regimes and soil analysis
Development of appropriate policies to support climate smart agriculture at national and
regional levels, and widening of the climate change “conversation” to a multi-stakeholder
audience.
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Greater adoption of micro-propagation technology (tissue culture technology).
Research on impacts of climate change on the sector should be integrated into the development
agenda.
A listing of partners and potential partners to address Climate Change issues within the regional context
was developed including the following agencies: CGIAR/CIAT, FAO, CARDI, CTA, CDB, UNDP, GIZ, IFAD,
IICA, CCCCC, OECS Authority, CMIH, and UWI.
The following suggestions were made to address the issue of funding:
6. There was a call for the development of an Adaptation Fund.
7. Stakeholders must pay special attention to the building of partnerships that would assist with
leveraging of funding opportunities.
8. The cooperative approach to funding should be adopted when different funding opportunities
are identified.
9. GEF/SGP is a potential source funding for initiatives in CC mitigation or adaptation.
10. There are opportunities for countries to benefit from the World Bank Pilot Programme for
Climate Resilience (PPCR), several Caribbean countries have already benefitted from resources
received from this facility.
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6.2 Summary of Recommendations by Country
Specific Recommendations were also developed for each country in the national reports and
these are provided below.
COUNTRY
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
1 ANTIGUA & BARBUDA
Demarcate and monitor the 168 watersheds in the country
Develop consistent and professionally planned communication programmes to change expected outcomes from awareness to behavioural change
Establish strict adherence to determined setbacks for riparian and other protected verges.
Stricter allocation and adherence to land capability and zoning plans with respect to watershed protection and agricultural holdings.
Increase the use of plastic and organic mulches.
Practise more intensive small livestock rearing systems
The Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with CARDI should conduct more adaptive research with respect to drought/heat tolerant plants and hardier small ruminants.
More integrated protected agriculture units should be supported by way of loans, technology support, water management infrastructure, post harvest handling and product marketing
2 BARBADOS
NARA (National Appropriate Resilience Actions)
Promote technologies that utilize lower water inputs per output, and that are built on an integration of human and natural elements eg Organic production and Permaculture
Promote higher public investment in reforestation, biodiversity conservation, landraces (non-patented) propagation, farmer selection, on-farm recycling.
Implement a surcharge on land-use changes that shift land out of agricultural enterprises, the proceeds of which could finance investment in land-based small scale agriculture;
Landscape Labeling - award producers in a recognized geographic area to continue to build systems that protect the biodiversity and ecosystem services needed to sustain agricultural productivity over the long term
Promote Landscape Literacy to increase understanding of how land use re-engineers the ecological succession of the landscape.
3
BAHAMAS
Replace traditional slash-and-burn systems with agroforestry systems.
Increase soil carbon stocks through restoration of degraded lands and conservation agriculture.
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COUNTRY
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable use in the agricultural sector
Develop water resource management plans at the landscape level for each island in The Bahamas
Use drought-resistant and salt-tolerant varieties of crop species.
Identify lands that are best suited for agriculture over the long-term, considering sea level rise and SLOSH modeling, and designation of these areas as agricultural lands.
Use water-efficient technologies for irrigation.
Use energy-efficient technologies for provision of power and transportation.
Develop a seed bank within the National Herbarium.
Develop policies to build economic resilience at the farm level
Provide training for farmers in sustainable soil and water management practices.
Provide training for farmers in disaster risk management at the farm and landscape level.
Promote diversification of income sources inside and outside of farms.
4 BELIZE
Establish policies to allow for overall participatory and wholistic involvement allowing for changes in infrastructure, technology and sustainable agriculture
Increase advocacy for resilient farming systems and practices, information exchange, adoptable methodologies and tools between experts and institutions working on DRR, climate change and development.
Use innovative communication technologies for generation and dissemination of traditional knowledge with new technology
Establish activities adaptation / mitigation and promote sustainable farming in pilot farms in sensitive communities.
5 DOMINICA
Finalize, approve and facilitate the full implementation of the Climate Proof Agriculture Strategy for Livestock, Roots and Tubers (CPASLRT) and expand this strategic framework to include other critical subsectors that are central to the livelihoods of small producers.
Prioritize the pursuit of value addition as a strategic national development priority
Strengthen national institutional capacities to support development of a sustainable, profitable and award winning agro-processing industry.
Develop and enhance multi-sectoral linkages between public sector agencies, CSOs and the agro-processing subsector to allow for more effective delivery of quality service.
As a policy decision within the MENRPPF, foster synergy between the
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COUNTRY
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
priority agricultural commodities and all aspects of the value chain.
Institute a Product Development Unit within the Division of Agriculture that champions the development of export ready products to niche markets.
Prioritize public awareness and education on climate change that recognizes the unique needs and challenges of the smallholder producer.
Approve as necessary, and facilitate the full implementation of the various policy and strategic plans already developed.
Document and use the lessons learnt from implementation of the GEF SGP Strategic Project on agro-processing.
Elaborate a policy framework and strategic plan that address the specific needs and priorities for smallholder producer development.
Build capacities for sustainability of smallholder producer organizations.
Link land use policies/land capability data and other suitable instruments to guide agriculture production systems.
6 GRENADA
Enhance smallholder access to the factors of production
Pursue implementation of the Land Bank Project spearheaded by the Ministry with responsibility for Agriculture and Lands to provide access to landless farmers or others desirous of increasing acreage under productive activity.
Evaluate the technology needs of the small producer, and develop a phased plan to allow for increase introduction and uptake of appropriate technology within the medium and long term.
Improve access to affordable loan and/or grant funding to domestic producers.
Ensure or insure Farm holder’s security of investments especially those farming on lease lands.
Strengthen capacities for continuous adoption of climate smart agriculture (CSA) practices among smallholder producers through implementation of measures to raise the profile of the Extension Service among farmers to allow for more effective delivery of service
Raise awareness and build understanding of climate change and impacts on the resilience of rural enterprises through well targeted and accessible information and advice, which is oriented to the different sectors (or sub-sectors) that rural enterprises operate in.
Target and engage rural enterprises on a spatial rather than sectoral basis to encourage both individual and collective action.
Direct efforts to improving the agro-processing sector and rural business resilience (including to climate change impacts and opportunities) through targeted interventions that also encourage rural enterprises to adopt business continuity planning.
Encourage youth entrepeneurship in Agriculture
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COUNTRY
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Make small loans available for young agricultural entrepreneurs and providing more scholarships for agriculture at the tertiary levels
7 GUYANA
Pursue full implementation of the Agriculture DRM Plan 2013-2017 and related instruments
Expand training on climate smart agriculture targeting smallholder producers coupled with provision of low cost inputs and equipment to encourage adoption of recommended technologies.
Pursue more aggressive evaluation of potential climate smart agricultural practices and disseminate findings to smallholders as part of a larger plan to increase adoption of technologies.
Further develop and expand community based projects that are effective
Regularize tenure arrangements for landless farmers.
Improve access to the factors of production among smallholder producers.
Strengthen national capacities for marketing among smallholder producers.
Enhance the provision of support services to catalyze optimal development of all aspects of the value chain, with specific emphasis on rural agroprocessing, product development and marketing.
Improve capacities for communication and access to markets in remote, indigenous communities
Document lessons learnt from implementing community based climate resilient projects and utilize results to foster sustainability in impacts and development and implementation of more impactful projects
Strengthen capacities for establishment and continuance of effective producer organizations.
8 JAMAICA
Rehabilitate degraded watersheds (e.g. Rio Minho, Rio Grande, Yallahs etc.) and promote sustainable land management practices
Enhance on-farm water management and conservation practices, particularly in traditionally dry regions
Improve crop and livestock resilience to extreme heat and drought stress through genetic research.
Preserve coastal mangroves and coral reefs through further institutionalization and management of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
Develop a climate change sector strategy and action plan specifically for agriculture.
Mainstream climate change in Jamaica’s development agenda
Forge strategic partnerships between key public, private and NGO sector partners to promote the uptake, replication and scaling up of climate smart actions
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COUNTRY
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
Establish climate risk insurance schemes, especially for small producers.
Promote farmers’ cooperatives so farmers can better pool their resources together and minimize risk and vulnerability to climate related hazards.
9
ST. KITTS & NEVIS
Ensure stricter allocation and adherence to land capability and zoning plans with respect to watershed protection and agricultural holdings.
Expand the Solid Waste Management Company’s compost making efforts
Increase the use of plastic mulch
Practise more intensive small livestock rearing systems
The Departments of Agriculture should encourage more adaptive research with respect to drought/heat tolerant plants and hardier small ruminants.
Suiport the establishment of integrated protected agriculture units through loans, technology support, water management infrastructure, post harvest handling and product marketing
10 ST. LUCIA
Plan and deliver consistent and professionally planned communication programmes to change expected outcomes from awareness to behavioural change
Apply stricter allocation and adherence to land capability and zoning plans with respect to watershed protection and agricultural holdings.
Increase the use of plastic and organic mulches.
Practise more intensive small livestock rearing systems including the use of miniature zebu
The Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with CARDI should conduct more adaptive research with respect to drought/heat tolerant plants and hardier small ruminants.
Support more integrated protected agriculture units by way of loans, technology support, water management
11 ST. VINCENT & THE
GRENADINES
Encourage more adaptive research with respect to drought/heat tolerant plants and hardier small ruminants.
Apply stricter allocation and adherence to land capability and zoning plans with respect to watershed protection and agricultural holdings.
Develop and deliver consistent and professionally planned communication programmes to change expected outcomes from awareness to behavioral change
Practise more intensive small livestock rearing systems
Increase the use of gliricidia-based feeds for small ruminants
Support more integrated protected agriculture units by way of loans, technology support, water management infrastructure, post harvest
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COUNTRY
SUMMARY OF RECOMMENDATIONS
handling and product marketing
Develop revolving loans scheme for adaptation/mitigation projects
Introduce incentives for rainwater harvesting off roofing material, field runoff storage, low volume irrigation technologies and housing for small ruminants
Increase the use of plastic and other mulches
Use adapted cultivars from climate analogues
12 SURINAME
Enhance development and implementation of research programs, capacity building and training
Establish an insurance fund to compensate farmers who suffer from the effects of unexpected weather influences on crop production
Establish efficient irrigation and drainage systems
Implement technological improvements in cultivation methods that prevent soil loss, and in farming systems
Promote protected agriculture
13 TRINIDAD &
TOBAGO
Re-Direct:
Subsidies into Award Schemes based on a system of entitlements and responsibilities
Zoning into community participating in landscape branding
Farm Management towards an evaluation of productivity and stewardship
Conservation towards positive feedback to nature
Technology Fix towards generating more on-farm inputs
6.3 Proposed Regional Project – A Caribbean Climate Smart Agriculture Project
This proposal presents a compendium of regional projects aimed at achieving some early wins in the
adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture in the English Speaking Caribbean countries. The projects were
devised based on evidence and knowledge gained about smallholder production practices and
adaptation strategies under the IICA-IFAD project. The projects outlined are intended to provide
budgetary support to kick-start and fast-track new and existing projects on the ground in the Caribbean.
Networking among stakeholders and knowledge sharing, have been cited as important follow up
activities to support implementation and sustainability of adaptation and mitigation strategies employed
by smallholders. Several opportunities also exist to develop value chains of crops and fruits and
processed foods that can be traded on local, regional and international markets, to the benefit of
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smallholder farmers and cottage-scale processors in the rural sector. For these reasons the proposed
areas of support will include:
Reduction of vulnerabilities in the agricultural sector, with special focus on good agronomic
practices that boost resilience to negative climate change impacts, and production of crops that
are climate-resilient and commercially valuable. Emphasis is given to the application of
Protected Agriculture (PA).
Development of practical measures to enhance the resilience of the agricultural sector, from
input to harvest management, including actions designed to restore and maintain ecological
services around crop production ecosystems
Fostering rural entrepreneurship for improved market access, and creation of employment for
rural youth, both men and women, in innovative agricultural value chains, including agri-
tourism, including developing partnerships with communities and with the distributive and
export sectors
Networking and knowledge sharing (using creative tools and mechanisms), especially with
respect to lessons learned, good practices and innovations in adaptation and mitigation
Strengthening the technical and business managerial capacities of smallholders to better access
niche markets.
The proposed scheme is to support the application of Climate-Smart Agriculture in the Caribbean by
promoting innovations and technology for diversified agricultural production, in collaboration with
stakeholders so as to raise rural smallholders’ income and improve food security and reduce poverty,
while reducing economic and environmental risks.
The approach will be to take advantage of projects already being managed by stakeholders and which
require a small injection of funds to achieve significant impacts, in some cases for relatively large
numbers of stakeholders. The proposal builds on existing IICA initiatives, specifically Pilot projects to be
implemented by trainees from Ministries of Agriculture and the private sector, who benefitted from
recent training provided by IICA and the Mexico Ministry of Agriculture (SAGARPA) in six courses. These
courses are directly relevant to the adoption of climate smart practices and are related to Soil and
Water Conservation, Protected Agriculture, Family Farming, Rural Tourism and Sheep Production.
Synergies will also be created with IICA activities being carried out under the 2014-2018 MTP Flagship
Programme on Resilience and Risk Management. Specifically, the Project will support the participation
of Caribbean stakeholders at a hemispheric training programme on Agricultural Insurance and Risk
Management which will be held in Guyana during November 2014.
The Caribbean Climate-Smart Agriculture projects focus on five general areas:
1. Adaptation through adoption of innovations and good agronomic practices
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2. Mitigating the impacts of climate change
3. Fostering community resilience through rural entrepreneurship
4. Strengthening linkages between the agricultural/rural sector, tourism and the environment
5. Promoting the participation of farm families, women and youth into the practice of Climate
Smart agriculture.
Programme Management
The IICA offices, in collaboration with their partners and stakeholders on the ground in each of the
Member Countries, will work to implement the various projects to complete them. We have
demonstrated that through our network of Offices on the ground, we are able to facilitate
administrative and logistical arrangements, and to work efficiently within budgets.
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Table 1 Project Profile Summary - Caribbean Climate Smart Agriculture
COUNTRY PROJECT TITLE PROPOSED
BUDGET
9. Antigua &
Barbuda
Rejuvenate and Promote the commercial
production of vegetables with the use of
Protected Agriculture Technology at the
Diamonds Agriculture Experimental Station
20,000
10. Belize i. Vegetable crop producers - Protective
Structure for Vegetable Production
20,000
ii. Climate Resilient small ruminant (sheep, goat)
production in Six Villages in Belize District
20,000
11. Dominica Use of Biological fertilizers in Family Farms and
School gardens
20,000
12. Guyana Support to family agriculture through
technological innovations and integrated
climate smart farming methods for sustainable
production
25,000
13. Jamaica Documentation of Climate Smart Agricultural
Practices in Rural Jamaica
10,000
14. Grenada C) Enhancing the Water Harvesting Capacity
and Production Scheduling System in the
Farming Community of Ludbur, St. Andrew’s,
Grenada
20,000
D) Introduction to Water Harvesting and
Improve Production Scheduling with North
East Farmers Organization (NEFO), Grenada
20,000
15. Trinidad Building a Seamless Transition to Climate Smart
Agricultural Practices
10,000
16. Barbados Management of IICA/IFAD Regional Climate
Smart Projects and Implementation of Course
entitled
“Building Capacity within Governments to
Design and Implement Agricultural Insurance
Programs to Mitigate climate Risk”
35,000
TOTAL 200,000
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APPENDICES
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REGIONAL WORKSHOP, ST. LUCIA, SEPTEMBER 2-3, 2014
AGENDA
Day 1
8:00 – 8:30 Registration
8:30 – 9:30 Welcome and Opening Remarks
John King
Ena Harvey, IICA Representative, Barbados & Management Coordinator, Regional Integration -Caribbean Region
Feature Address
Hon. Moses Jn Baptiste, Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, Food Production, Fisheries, Cooperatives and Rural Development, St. Lucia
Session 1 Introductions Background to Project Objectives and Expected Outcomes of the meeting
Session 2 9:30 – 11:00
Key Agency Developments in Climate Smart Agriculture Chair: Gregg Rawlins, IICA Representative in Trinidad and Tobago and Coordinator, Regional Integration, Caribbean Region This session will feature 10-15 min presentations from agencies active in promoting climate smart agriculture in the Caribbean Region and Latin America. Panel discussion:
Dr. Leslie Simpson, Representative (Ag.) CARDI, Jamaica Dr. Vyjayanthi Lopez, FAO, Barbados Judi Clarke, Caribbean Regional Director, The CaribSave
Partnership\ Cleve Scott, Marketing Manager, CAFAN Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim, Director, Innovation & Technology, IICA Caitlin Dorloff, Researcher, International Centre for Tropical
Agriculture (CIAT)
11: 00 – 11:30 COFFEE BREAK
Session 3 11:30 – 13:30
Country Presentations (Cont’d) Chair: IICA Speakers: Dr. Allan Williams, Regional Consultant and Consultant for Trinidad & Tobago and Barbados
The survey methodology and regional summary of results Presentation of Country Reports on Trinidad & Tobago and
Barbados Robert Tjien Foo, Consultant
Presentation of Country Report for Suriname
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DISCUSSION
12:30 – 13:30 LUNCH
Session 4 13:30 – 16:30
Session 3 continued Steve Maximay, Consultant Presentation of Country Reports for
Antigua & Barbuda St. Kitts & Nevis St. Lucia St. Vincent & the Grenadines
DISCUSSION Dr. Dianne Roberts, Consultant Presentation of Country Reports for
Dominica Grenada Guyana
DISCUSSION
16:30 – 17:00 BREAK
Session 5 17:00 - 18:00
Stacey Moultrie, Consultant Presentation of Country Report for The Bahamas
Clifford Martinez, Consultant
Presentation of Country Report for Belize
Day 2
Dr. Kevon Rhiney, Consultant Presentation of Country Report for Jamaica
DISCUSSION
Session 6 8:00 – 12:00
FIELD TRIP SLAFY Sustainable Charcoal Production
12: 00 – 14:00 LUNCH
Session 7 14:00 – 16:00
WORKING SESSION This session is aimed at identifying priority areas for focus in the development of a regional strategy for addressing Climate Smart Agriculture in the Caribbean.
Session 8 16:00 – 17:30
PLENARY, DISCUSSION and CLOSING SESSION
18:30 – 21:00 COCKTAIL RECEPTION
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REGIONAL WORKSHOP - LIST OF PARTICIPANTS
Name Country Position
Steering Committee and Invited Presenters
Dr. Vyjayanthi Francis Lopez Barbados Regional Plant Production and Protection Officer, FAO
Judi Clarke Barbados Regional Manager, CARIBSAVE Partnership Regional Headquarters
Cleve Scott Barbados Senior Project Officer, Caribbean Farmers Network (CaFAN)
George Emmanuel St. Lucia CARDI Representative (Ag.)
Gregg Rawlins Trinidad & Tobago IICA Representative
Dr. Muhammad Ibrahim Costa Rica IICA Project Director, Resilience
Ena Harvey Barbados IICA Representative, Barbados and Management Coordinator – Caribbean Region
The Hon. Moses Jn Baptiste St. Lucia Minister, Ministry of Agriculture, Food Production, Fisheries, Cooperatives and Rural Development
Caitlin Corner-Dolloff Colombia Climate Change Adaptation Specialist Decision and Policy Analysis (DAPA) Research Area - (CIAT)
Consultants
Name Country Consultant For:
Allan Williams Trinidad and Tobago Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados
Dianne Roberts Grenada Grenada, Dominica, Guyana
Kevon C. Rhiney Jamaica Jamaica
Steve Maximay Trinidad y Tobago Antigua & Barbuda, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, St. Lucia, St. Kitts & Nevis
Robert Tjien Fooh Suriname Suriname
Stacey Ann Moultrie Bahamas Bahamas
Clifford Martinez Belize Belize
Invited Participants
Name Country Position
Gregory Bailey Antigua and Barbuda Project Coordinator, MOA
Ralph Henry Antigua and Barbuda Private Farmer
Teddy H. Clarke Bahamas Farmer
Luckner Timothee Bahamas Farmer
Ronald St. Clair Moore Barbados Farmer
Wain Alexander Moody Belize Farmer
Vincente Tuyub Belize Farmer
Jennifer Agnes Pascal Dominica
Ricky Edward Brumant Dominica
Trevor Thompson Grenada Farmer
Evans Gooding Grenada Farmer
Jaume Campbell Grenada CAFY
David Bartholomew Fredericks Guyana Farmer
Doreen Jacobis Guyana Farmer
Zuliekha Budhan Jamaica Principal Director of Planning and Policy, MOAF
85
Dr. Orville Grey Jamaica Senior Technical Officer, Climate Division, MWLECC
Dyrud Lionel St. Lucia Youth Business Trust
Ignatius Jean St. Lucia CAWASA
George Emmanuel St. Lucia CARDI
George Alcee St. Lucia OECS
Tanzia Toussaint St. Lucia Min of Social Transformation
Avalina Charlery St. Lucia Caribbean Network of Rural Producers (CANROP)
Curt Harris St. Lucia SLAFY
Mr Luis Manuel Lopez Moreno St. Lucia Mexican Ambassador
Jannel Gabriel St. Lucia Sustainable Development
Ann Margaret Adams St. Lucia Ministry of Tourism
Amatus Hamilton St. Lucia WASCO
Ariel Jean Marc St. Lucia UNDP GEF SGP
Loretta Patrick St. Kitts and Nevis Farmer
Emontine Thompson St. Kitts and Nevis Farmer
Terrance Haywood Trinidad and Tobago President, National Food Crops Farmers Association
Brian Anthony Dickson Trinidad and Tobago Farmer
IICA Country Representatives and Specialists
Name Country Position
Craig Thomas Antigua and Barbuda Technical Specialist
Manuel Messina Bahamas IICA Representative
Roxanne Waithe Barbados Technical Programming Officer
Marielos Salazar Costa Rica Administrative Assistant, IICA Headquarters
Kent Coipel Dominica Technical Specialist
Manuel Sanchez Dominican Republic IICA Representative
Derek Charles Grenada Technical Specialist
Wilmot Garnett Guyana IICA Representative
Arnold De Mendonca Guyana Sustainable Rural Development Specialist
Alain Thermil Haiti Sustainable Rural Development Specialist
Elizabeth Johnson Jamaica IICA Representative
Augustine Merchant St. Kitts and Nevis Coordinator
Michael Dalton St. Vincent and the Grenadines Technical Specialist
John King St. Lucia IICA Representative, OECS
Kervin Stephenson St. Lucia Project Specialist
Curt Delice St. Lucia National Specialist
Abimbola Abiola Suriname IICA Representative
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MEDIA Coverage of the Project
Promotions www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eiu6u7UsZWE
IICA promoting climate-smart agriculture
By GIS - Tuesday, January 6th, 2015 at 11:07 AM
GIS - Representatives from the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) are encouraging farmers within the Caribbean region to adopt climate-smart agricultural practices that can help lessen the impacts of
climate change. The IICA representatives also lauded Saint Lucia’s “advanced approach” to climate change mitigation efforts. Ena Harvey, IICA Management Coordinator for the Caribbean, said the entire region has experienced the impact of climate change with devastating
consequences on food production and food security. “Climate change has resulted in flooding, landslides, the loss of soil nutrients, and it has a dramatic effect on our agriculture which has a ripple effect on food security, and the livelihoods of small farmers,” Ms. Harvey
said. To lessen the impact, “conservation and the proper utilization of resources” is key, explained Steve Maximay, IICA Consultant on Climate-smart agriculture. “Climate-smart agriculture employs an ecological approach. Everyone has to survive in this changing environment, so we need to know how to adapt,” he said, adding that in many cases it means reverting to tried and tested farming practices.
87
“When we talk about climate-smart agriculture, we are talking about general survival and development, and not just agriculture,” Mr. Maximay said. “Climate-smart agriculture entails good agricultural practices applied to climate change impacts. So all the things we recommend is stuff that our forefathers knew about, like how to conserve water, and how to maintain soil fertility.”
The results of a recent farming assessment revealed that one main area of concern is water management. “Rainfall has become more unpredictable and is associated with more intense events,” Mr. Maximay said. “If you look at historic rainfall figures they may appear to be similar, but recently what you find is that we are getting that rainfall in only three or four events. In addition, we are seeing longer dry spells tantamount to droughts. So we have to conserve water and find comprehensive and appropriate ways to irrigate, harvest, conserve, store and distribute that water.” The IICA works directly with farmers seeking assistance and information on farming practices. The institute also works in collaboration with a wide range of regional and international agencies.
See more at: http://www.stlucianewsonline.com/farmers-encouraged-to-adopt-climate-
smart-agriculture-practices/#sthash.DAxw90rM.Lx9DTvHu.dpuf
St. Kitts & Nevis
St. Lucia
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Antigua & Barbuda:
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MATRIX OF INITIATIVES UNDERTAKEN IN THE CARIBBEAN (provided by CDEMA)
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Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
1.Enhancing water resources management
Aug 2010 to Jul 2012
CARDI/CTA
150,000 Prepare for impact of climate change on agricultural sustainability; improved policies on soil/water management; mobilisation of resources of water management policies under climate change
Completed
2. Caribbean Agro-meteorological Initiative (CAMI)
2012-2012 CARDI, Caribbean Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH), World Meteorological Organization (WMO) National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago
15,600 To increase and sustain agricultural productivity at the farm level in the Caribbean region through improved applications of weather and climate information using an integrated and coordinated approach
Completed
3. Updating of Meteorological stations on all CARDI field stations – Automatic Weather Stations
2012-2014 CARDI (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago) and CCCCC
17,000 To facilitating modelling of crop vulnerability/ adaptation to climate change through automatic collection of weather, soil and crop data
Climate and crop data collection and analysis continuing
91
Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
4. Applicable production systems to aid in adaptation and mitigation efforts against the stresses of Climate Change
3 years from inception
CARDI (Belize, St Kitts & Nevis and St. Lucia), CARISEC, CCCCC, CIMH
311,000 To promote sustainable production of commercially significant crops that display tolerance to climate related phenomena and improve the awareness and knowledge of principal stakeholders in regards to the mitigation and adaption to climate change effects
Project suspended
5. Intra-ACP Agriculture Policy Programme - Agricultural production strategies to mitigate the impact of risk and climate change
2012/13 – 2016/17
CARDI, IICA, CARISEC, CaFAN, CaRPN
537,000 The specific objective is to increase the capability of Regional Agricultural Development Organisations of the Caribbean region to address the development needs of smallholder agriculture, by promoting and supporting inter and intra-regional trade
Final document approved and pre- implementation preparation began
6. Improving Caribbean food security in the context of climate change
3 years from inception
CARDI (Barbados, Belize, St Kitts/Nevis and Trinidad and Tobago), UWI, CaFAN, University of Wageningen
624,000 To ensure food supplies over the long term, in the midst of the constantly changing agro-ecological environment and to conserve and utilize the selected germplasm
Project launched and implementation to start shortly
7. Caribbean pilot programme for climate resilience - Applied adaptation initiatives
4 years from inception
CARDI, CCCCC, CEHI, CRFM, UWI
1,200,000 To strengthen regional strategic planning for climate resilience in the agriculture sector
Final document preparation stage
8. Design of training materials on agricultural practices to mitigate risks in small
Apr 2011 to Dec 2011
CARDI, WB 60,000 Training materials on the following types of risks: (i) Weather risks; (ii) Pest and diseases risks; (iii) Food safety hazards. Materials available in electronic form
Completed
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Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
holders vegetable crop production in the Caribbean
9.Agricultural Disaster Risk management Plans
2012 CARICOM Secretariat, Land and Water TMAC (All CARICOM countries)
NA Preparation of ADRM plans for all CARICOM member states. Monitoring the progress
The Bahamas submitted plan, Guyana completed DRM plan, St. Lucia has draft plan, Dominica preparing DRM plan under FAO project while other countries are at different stages of preparation.
10. A strategy, action plan and program proposal on DRM/ CCA in fisheries and aquaculture in the Caribbean Region
November 2011 to December 2012
FAO, CRFM,CDEMA, CCCCC, CARICOM Secretariat (CRFM Member States)
134,000 Study of the interface between DRM, CCA and fisheries and aquaculture in the Caribbean. Strategy and action plan for integrating DRM, CCA and fisheries and aquaculture; Results-based program proposal with supporting project concept notes on implementation and resource mobilization.
CARICOM fisheries policy/strategy was prepared and was approved by the Ministers of Agriculture
11. Pilot program for Climate Resilience (PPCR) – Fisheries component
2012 - 2016 CRFM, CARISEC, CIMH, CDEMA, CARDI, OECS, UWI, CDB, CEHI, IDM WB (Dominica, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent)
10.6 million
Improved regional process of data acquisition, storage and analysis to enable effective response to CC; Scaled-up innovative climate resilience initiative; Replication of PPCR initiatives in more PPRC pilot countries.
Programme being developed
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Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
12.Caribbean Agro-Meteorological Initiative (CAMI)
2009-2012 CIMH, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) (Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, St. Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines and Trinidad and Tobago)
0.9 million To increase and sustain agricultural productivity at the farm level in the Caribbean region through improved applications of weather and climate information using an integrated and coordinated approach
Completed in February 2013. Enhancement of some components continuing
13.Enhancing the Caribbean Drought and Precipitation Monitoring Network
2012 CIMH, CDEMA, FAO (CARICOM countries)
90,000 Improved preparedness for and effective response to the threat of drought in the Caribbean through monitoring and capacity building.
Completed, implementation Plans to be ratified by Cabinets of Pilot Countries. Left up to the countries.
14."Enhancing Resilience to Reduce Vulnerability in the Caribbean
2010-2013 CIMH, UNDP, CDEMA, OECS, CIMA Foundation (Italy) (CARICOM countries)
4.8 million To strengthen national and regional disaster risk reduction mechanisms associated with natural, environmental and technological hazards, within the broader context of hydrometeorology and climate change; and for effective disaster recovery through capacity building for early warning systems and institutional collaboration for disaster management and response.
Continuing
15. Caribbean Climate Outlook Forum (CARIFOR)
Indefinite CIMH (CARICOM countries)
NA To provide seasonal climate forecasts for the Caribbean region produced through a forum of regional meteorologists/climatologists. Forecasts produced once per month. Includes User Forum once/twice per year.
Continuing
16. Caribbean Drought and precipitation Monitoring Network
Indefinite CIMH (CARICOM countries
NA Monitors Caribbean rainfall mainly for extremes but in particular for detection of drought events.
Continuing
17. Promoting rainwater harvesting and small
April 2010 to December 2011
FAO (Jamaica) 174.300 Government extension capacity improved to provide RWH expertise to farmers; Rain deficit maps created for the
Activities completed and project closed.
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Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
scale irrigation in South St. Elizabeth
entire country for use as RWH planning tool; 12 demo sites available to showcase variety of RWH techniques.
Technical officer trained under the project was used for training in Antigua and Barbuda
18.Strengthening community resilience and preparedness to natural disasters in selected vulnerable areas of DR, Haiti and Jamaica
September 2009 to August 2012
FAO (Jamaica, Dominican Republic, Haiti)
1,333,332 To enhance agricultural based livelihoods and food and nutrition security in rural communities by building capacity and resilience of farmers, pastoralists, fishers and foresters.
In Jamaica, the FAO Livelihood Assessment methodology was applied to 5 pilot communities to prepare baseline assessments, leading to the formulation of community based DRM plans. The process is being documented for use by Gov’t in other communities. Project completed
19. Improved national and local capacities for hurricane related disaster mitigation, preparedness and response in the agricultural sector.
December 2009 to August 2011
FAO (Belize) 386,526 Supporting small farmers in selected villages through the identification and demonstration of appropriate DRM technologies and practices and capacity building for replication; Building the institutional and technical capacities within the MAF at national and district levels to more effectively manage all phases of the disaster cycle; Building the technical and institutional capacities to undertake improved damage and needs assessments in the agriculture sector
Activities implemented and project completed during 2011.
20. Dev. of DRM plan for the agricultural
July – December 2012
FAO (Guyana)
50,501 •Review and assess the existing prevention and mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery mechanisms of the agricultural sector
DRM plan completed and 20 Extension
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Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
sector in Guyana
to natural disasters. •Prepare a national disaster risk management plan for the agricultural sector and its sub-sectors incorporating all the relevant elements of Disaster Risk Management (DRM) framework. •Ensure coordination of the agricultural sector plan with the existing national disaster preparedness and emergency response mechanisms. •Build the capacity of the agricultural sector to conduct livelihood assessments in the wake of the natural disasters.
officers trained in livelihoods assessment.
21. Adaptation activities to increase resilience and reduce vulnerability to climate change impacts in the Eastern Caribbean Fisheries sector
5 years FAO, GEF (St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Grenada, Dominica, St. Lucia, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Kitts and Nevis)
8.3 million Improved understanding and awareness of vulnerability of fisheries sector and strengthened regional policy for adaptation. Programs of safety at sea strengthened. Governance and co-management systems enhanced through the expansion of regional knowledge networks, the implementation of pilot projects and improved skills for vulnerable groups. Fisheries management capacity increased. Climate proof aquaculture promoted.
GEF project was prepared for US$8.5 million and submitted but funding has not yet been approved.
22. Assistance to improve DRM capacities in the agricultural sector
July 2010 to December 2011
FAO (Dominica)
326,000 To enhance the resilience of Dominica’s agricultural sector to natural disasters thus contributing to the promotion of sustained economic growth and poverty reduction.
Phase 11 of the project approved and being implemented - activities relating to capacity building, demonstrations and the preparation of DRM plan.
23. Assistance to develop a methodology for national and local level land degradation assessment.
June 2011 to December 2012
FAO (Grenada)
140,000 To contribute to filling the information gap on the epidemiology of land degradation in Grenada.
Satellite imagery has been acquired, training conducted and some land assessments
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Project Title and Number
Implementation period
Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
undertaken. Project completed
24. Enhanced capacities for DRM in agriculture, fisheries and forestry.
July 2009 to December 2011
FAO (ST. Lucia)
385,920 Improved service delivery capacities of agriculture, fishery and forestry line departments, and enhanced know how of farmer’s and fishermen organisations to implement natural hazard risk mitigation and preparedness measures, with particular emphasis on primary and secondary impacts of hurricanes and tropical storms.
Draft DRM plan prepared, DRM demonstrations established, technical and farmer capacities enhanced, community vulnerability assessments and mapping conducted. Project completed
25. Emergency assistance to small-scale farmers affected by Hurricane Tomas
June 2011 to August 2012
FAO (St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines)
416,000 The project aims at mitigating the negative impact of hurricane Tomas on livelihoods and food-security of affected communities through a prompt resumption of agricultural production by providing emergency agricultural inputs to small rural households.
Inputs distributed to impacted farmers, DRM training conducted and some demonstrations established.
26. Preparation of National Food and Nutrition Security Policies and Action Plans in CARICOM member states.
July 2010 to July 2013
FAO (All CARICOM Member States)
680,000 To contribute to the enhancement of Member States capacities to address the root causes of hunger, food insecurity and malnutrition, thereby contributing to the achievement of the MDG 1. DRM to be a major consideration in the process.
FNS policies completed in Guyana, Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda but started in Barbados, Grenada, St. Lucia, Dominica. All policies should be completed by August 2013.
27. Post Tomas hurricane emergency agriculture
March 2011 to March 2012
FAO (St. Lucia)
589,000 To facilitate the rehabilitation of livelihoods within the agricultural sector in St. Lucia after hurricane Tomas.
Lands, river courses and drainage cleared, inputs
97
Project Title and Number
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Participating Agencies and Countries
Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
based livelihood assistance in St. Lucia.
distributed and training conducted. Project completed
28. CARICOM /Brazil/FAO Cooperation Programme on DRR.
February 2011 to February 3013
CDEMA. FAO,CIMH (All FAO and CDEMA member states) The CIMH portion of this project was mentioned separately above.
1,062,600 The objectives of the overall Cooperation Programme are: a) The strengthening of
humanitarian assistance initiatives;
b) Fostering best practices for the reduction of risks related to disasters;
c) Mitigating and responding to social, man-made and natural disasters; and
d) Assisting with reconstruction efforts in CARICOM Member States.”
Farmers in St. Lucia and St. Vincent impacted by 2010 hurricanes provided inputs, capacity building in the agricultural sector in 3 CDEMA participating states undertaken, technical support to the development of a drought monitoring and management program provided.
29. CaFAN Food and Nutrition Security and Trade Targeting Production and Marketing of Roots, Tubers, Fruits and Vegetables.
July 2013 to July 2018
CaFAN, CARDI, Ministries of Agriculture, Farmers Organisations and OECS (Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Barbados
15, 000,000
The Objectives are a). To increase production of food crops which can withstand natural disasters. b). To increase our food and nutrition security. c). To reduce our regional food import bill. d) To increase market share locally, regionally and internationally for our farmers through the CaFAN network.
- Pilot testing in St. Vincent, Jamaica and St. Lucia. - A long term Project is also being developed.
30. a).Producers meeting established standards incorporating DRM measures
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Project Title and Number
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Budget (US$)
Objectives/ Outcome Status
(Propel CHF/CIDA Project). b). Capacity Building in Climate Smart Agriculture and Recovery from Disaster.
31. Innovation Platforms and Horticulture: To Improve nutrition, income of small scale households, and the environmental link to the supply chain.
November 2013 to November 2016
32. Promotion of sustainable climate smart agriculture through agro-ecological approaches (EU NGOs). a). Reducing the impact of extreme rainfall events and climate change through disaster prevention and preparedness (UWI/ CARDI).
November 2013 to 2016
99
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