Paraquita Bay farmers receive water tank donations
Five farmers in Paraquita Bay have received water tanks to strengthen agricultural production and water security in the territory, according to a government press release.
The initiative saw the distribution of five 1,000-gallon tanks under the Integrated Land Management (ILM) and Sustainable Land Management (SLM) programme. The tanks were officially handed over on Tuesday and are equipped with automatic shut-off valves to support efficient water storage.
“This effort forms part of a broader initiative to enhance water security and agricultural sustainability across the Virgin Islands. The tanks were received in December from the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS) through the ILM/SLM OECS Programme,” said Agricultural Management Officer in the Premier’s Office, Orville Clarke.
The beneficiaries include Moviene Fahie, Bryan Hodge, Joy King, Ivan Mofford and Yogreta Frett. The group reflects a cross-section of the territory’s farming community, including livestock, crop and apiculture farmers.
Although two of the recipients were unable to attend the handover ceremony, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries facilitated delivery of the tanks directly to their farms with support from its Livestock and Animal Control team.
Clarke explained that the tanks are expected to improve farming operations through better water management.
“The water tanks are intended to support rainwater harvesting and storage, contributing to improved irrigation systems, increased agricultural production, and enhanced water reserves for livestock,” he stated.
He added that oversight will continue after distribution. “As part of programme oversight, all recipient farms will be visited to verify the installation and usage of the tanks,” Clarke explained.
The government said the initiative highlights ongoing efforts to support the agricultural sector through targeted interventions and partnerships.
The agricultural sector has faced recurring challenges linked to water access and climate variability, with initiatives such as rainwater harvesting often promoted to improve sustainability. The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries continues to play a central role in managing and developing the sector, including ensuring that food production remains environmentally sustainable and resilient to external shocks.
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Everytime they speak, they complain about something. They want the government to provide them with eveything for their business.
Message to farmers: You are running a business. If you dont have water for your crop, dig a well, get a pump,and have all the water you need. Stop the complaining and looking for the government or the public to give you a free ride.
How much of the food you grow do you give away to needy families, the community centers, or Adina Donovan Home for the Elderly? How much?
I am tired of your complaints. No one owes you anything. Your business is a private matter. Dont expect free handouts.
Congratulations AgroOfficer Clark and the team for the successful initiation of this collaborative project under the programme under the OECS supportive agenda, all to which we have suggested upon this government to achieve – we are finally glad to see some direct investment outcomes of these engagements.
congratulations to the 5 Farmers; well respected farmers.
this is what I talking about.
Finally. & top comment go buy your groceries.
Does paraquita bay even have water? What’s the point of wanter tanks without …..water. Does this island have a desalination plant?
I guess the farmers can pay to have water trucked in…. Like a lot of us have to do that don’t have “town” water, but rely on only our cisterns!
I guess the farmers can pay to have water trucked in…. Like a lot of us have to do that don’t have “town” water, but rely on only our cisterns!
That’s why the tanks are necessary