Jamaican agriculture is in recovery after Hurricane Beryl, a category-four cyclone, caused over $1 billion in damages, particularly in the southern parishes. The Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) reports that vegetables such as cabbage, lettuce, Pak choi, callaloo, and cauliflower were among the most affected. JAS President Lenworth Fulton highlighted that farmers are already replanting using available seeds and materials. He warned of imminent food shortages and a decrease in agro-processing capabilities, with melon, cantaloupe, and cucumber expected to be scarce in the short term but available within 12 weeks. The hurricane resulted in the loss of approximately 3,500 acres of plantain and bananas, significantly impacting Jamaica Producers' ripening trade.
According to the Banana Board, preliminary assessments in major banana-producing parishes show an 80 to 100 per cent loss in bananas and plantains. General Manager Janet Conie reported that commercial banana farms have experienced about 90 per cent losses, with assessments ongoing amid access and communication challenges.
Additionally, orchard crops, including mangoes and ackees, have suffered, with some ackees salvageable for agro-processing. Hot pepper farms also faced significant damage, affecting production for the agro-processing market.
Source: jamaica.loopnews.com