Gov’t preparing new water policy to assist farmers

The government is preparing a new water policy to set out the assistance and subsidies available to farmers as it moves ahead with plans for improved water storage at the Paraquita Bay Agricultural Station.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley said the policy should be completed shortly as the government looks to address water challenges facing the agriculture sector.

“The Ministry of the Premier’s Office should produce for us very soon a water policy for our farmers that will help to clarify what types of assistance and subsidies our farmers get as it pertains to water,” Dr Wheatley said.

He made the disclosure during a recent press conference after being questioned about the effects of drought and water shortages on residents and farmers.

Premier Wheatley said the government was also advancing plans for reservoirs at Paraquita Bay, with the Recovery and Development Agency (RDA) overseeing the project.

“I got a good update on the reservoirs we’re seeking to build at the Paraquita Bay Station, agricultural station, which will provide water for our farmers,” Dr Wheatley said.

“The RDA is in charge of that particular process, and they are moving ahead with the process, and we hope that that project will be completed sometime next year,” he added.

The government has been pursuing a permanent water supply for farmers at Paraquita Bay for several years. In May 2025, the RDA signed a $224,639.60 contract with Alvair Limited for the design and construction management of the Farmers’ Reservoir. The project included engineering design, construction oversight for water mains and related works intended to support irrigation and livestock needs.

Water access has been a longstanding concern among farmers in the area. Farmers have continued to complain about unreliable supplies, with one farmer previously reporting significant crop losses and the cost of purchasing water as an alternative.

More recently, five Paraquita Bay farmers received 1,000-gallon water tanks in March under an Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States-supported programme designed to improve rainwater harvesting, irrigation and water reserves for livestock.

Dr Wheatley said the government was trying to provide assistance while the reservoir project advances.

“In the meantime, we’re doing our best to provide water to our farmers,” Dr Wheatley said. “I know there’s a particular challenge.”

He said the wider water problems facing the territory were also being addressed through investments in pipes, reservoirs and distribution lines, with water designated a critical national priority.