Agricultural technology (agri-tech) investment on a grand scale is close to fruition in Barbados, as a result of current talks with a Canadian service provider.
Minister of Agriculture, Food, and Nutritional Security, Indar Weir, recently held discussions on this area with Counsellor and Senior Trade Commissioner, Canadian Embassy, Marthe Lemay, and Growcer representative, Ted Wagstaff, at the Ministry's headquarters, Graeme Hall, Christ Church.
Minister Weir highlighted the challenges of climate change and the need to build resilience in the agricultural sector. He stated: "I'm pleased to tell you that I am on board, in terms of the Ministry wanting to participate in transitioning agriculture to the point where we are introducing technology to induce more young people to participate; truth be told, the people who are currently involved in agriculture are those who will not transition quickly to this type of approach."
The project utilizes a container farm. Growcer representative, Wagstaff spoke about the specifications of the grow boxes. "The custom 10-foot by 40-foot container is capable of producing 230 pounds of fresh vegetables weekly, year-round," he said.
The Agri-tech farm produces a variety of crops that are susceptible to the harsh effects of climate change, such as leafy greens, which include Bok choy, spinach, romaine lettuce and other varieties of lettuce, and cherry tomatoes and strawberries.
Read more at barbados.loopnews.com