Leguan was successful in producing 87,000 bags of rice for the last season in spite of the weather conditions. Residents noted that this was as a result of farmers’ interest in returning to the fields.

The GRDB’s services to the area will be augmented with the provision of another person. Singh noted that the quality control unit of the Board will also visit the mills in the community to ensure that proper techniques are being practised which will not disadvantage farmers.

Farmers’ field school activities have been planned by GRDB for the area, and a demonstration plot which showcases advanced practices already exist. GRDB has also released two new varieties which are resistant to weather conditions and produce better yields as well. Farmers are currently experimenting with these varieties in order to determine their output.

An arrangement will be considered whereby fertiliser would be sourced through the Rice Producers Association (RPA) and the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC), after which it will be sold at a reasonable price to farmers so as to cut production cost.

Singh noted that the acreage for other crops’ farmers was also getting better. Leguan residents will also benefit from specialized training in areas such as aquaculture. (GINA)