TWENTY-TWO shade houses have been established for farmers across Linden in a project being spearheaded by Partners of the Americas (POA) (Guyana Chapter) in collaboration with the Caribbean Self-Reliance International (CASRI).A shade house is a structure enclosed by agro nets or any other woven material to allow required sunlight, moisture and air to pass through the gaps. It creates an appropriate micro climate conducive to plant growth.
The structure is used to help in cultivation of fruit and vegetable nurseries, flower plants, etc.; and to protect against pest attack as well as from natural- weather disturbances such as wind, rain, etc.
Meanwhile, 31 Lindeners on Wednesday participated in an agricultural cluster assembly that equipped them with the skills to expand their subsistence farming.
In light of Linden’s limited employment opportunities, Partners of the Americas undertook a project that engaged persons interested in agriculture to earn incomes by expanding their farming.
This project which is geared towards granting them structural and technical assistance, saw delegates being presented with certificates which they can present to any agricultural organisation to seek employment opportunities.
The network facilitator urged them to engage in market research and networking so as to ascertain the demand of customers and how they can best satisfy their needs.
Market promotion and public awareness were also advocated through social media, television programmes and other communication media. Failure to do so would allow other producers out of the region to meet the demand of their customers.
In order to avoid such competition, the farmers were encouraged to participate in continuity farming and to harvest in stages rather than to continue ad hoc farming. They would have to develop a strategic plan of action, so that customers would be guaranteed quality produce in a timely manner.
The delegates were then presented with a plant harvest calendar to further guide them, and they were advised about ‘best practices’ while cultivating so as to reap fertiliser-free produce.
The network manager highlighted the importance of integrated pest management through natural techniques to avoid using synthetic pesticides.
NETWORK CLUSTERS
In addition, they were encouraged to form clusters within the region to develop a better relationship with other farmers to ascertain the demand and supply. They were also told about organising tours to other regions to enable an interchange of knowledge with different farmers.