RICE farmers on the Essequibo Coast are still harvesting paddy from their fields while ploughing for the Autumn crop has started. It is reported that they have already harvested from some 26,000 of the estimated 36,500 acres cultivated across the ‘Cinderella County’.
The harvest is progressing smoothly as planters are making very good use of the hot dry weather. The grains are also being transported quickly by trucks and trailers to factories.
The average yield per acre is 31.7 bags and plots from which the grains have been culled are being burnt immediately to facilitate the row/plough process. Some 18,786 acres have since been ploughed and chipped in preparation for irrigation.
Reports said the water level in canals is low and some trenches are also dry. However, the Regional Administration conservancies have adequate amounts to irrigate and grow the upcoming crop and will release sufficient at the right time.