RICE harvesting has commenced in Region Two and this crop seems to be a better one as farmers are being offered good prices by millers.

Harvesting has commenced in the extreme south of the Essequibo Coast in villages such as Columbia, Aberdeen, Perservance and a few sections of Abram Zuil.

In the next few days, farmers in the northern side of the region are expected to begin harvesting.

Millers have started to display prices and based on what was observed by this publication, the prices are similar to those offered last year. Then, the farmers were offered $4,100 for A grand and $4,000 for AB and C, while the price for sample grand was negotiable.

Rice farmers are reaping over 36 bags of paddy per acre. Previously rice farmers were getting less, this publication was told.

Meanwhile, PPP/C councillor Toolsie Narine in presenting the region’s agriculture report said that the regional administration will continue to improve farm-to-market access dams for rice farmers.

The region recently acquired a front-end loader and a grader. Another grader will be purchased to help boost crop production in the region.

This publication spoke to some of the rice farmers who said they are enjoying the hot weather conditions which are perfect for harvesting.

Jaisingh Persaud, a rice farmer from Columbia said that he has been planting rice since he was a small boy and when he got married, he made it his profession.

He said that by cultivating rice, he is able to provide for his family.

Many rice farmers are indebted and depend on good prices to offset their expenses.

The farmers who spoke to this publication said that better prices for them means they can live a more comfortable life.

“We are happy when we get better prices. It helps us to pay our loans and provide for our families. This is what we depend on,” one of the farmer said.

Staff of the Guyana Rice Development Board are currently meeting with farmers and conducting field visits.

Grading training was conducted with staff members of the various rice mills.