What's Happening?
During the recent Economic Development Summit in the Virgin Islands, Dale Browne, co-founder of Sejah Farms on St. Croix, highlighted the neglect of local food production in resilience planning. Despite discussions on economic development and self-sufficiency,
agriculture remains underrepresented. Browne emphasized that while sectors like oil energy and education receive attention, agriculture is often omitted. He argued that for the Virgin Islands to enhance resilience, local food production must be prioritized. Agriculture Commissioner Dr. Louis Petersen acknowledged the need for infrastructure improvements, including water resources and storage systems. The Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture has initiated the Farmland Infrastructure Improvement Program, but funding remains a challenge. Dr. Petersen noted that partnerships with the U.S. Department of Agriculture have facilitated some progress, yet more support is needed.
Why It's Important?
The exclusion of agriculture from recovery discussions in the Virgin Islands has significant implications for the territory's resilience and self-sufficiency. As the region seeks to recover and develop economically, the ability to produce food locally is crucial. This oversight could hinder efforts to achieve long-term sustainability and reduce dependency on external food sources. The lack of infrastructure and support for agriculture could also impact local farmers' ability to contribute to the economy and meet the food needs of the community. Addressing these issues is vital for building a resilient and self-sufficient Virgin Islands.
What's Next?
Moving forward, the Virgin Islands must integrate agriculture into its recovery and resilience strategies. This includes securing funding for infrastructure improvements and ensuring that local food production is a key component of economic development plans. The Department of Agriculture's efforts to collaborate with federal partners like the USDA should continue, with a focus on expanding support to other areas in need. Additionally, policymakers and stakeholders must recognize the importance of agriculture in achieving resilience and work towards creating a supportive environment for local farmers.
