B.V.I. Wednesday, September 30 – The Department of Agriculture has launched its first edition of the Crop Production and Protection Newsletter as part of Pesticides Awareness Week activities.
The launch which took place yesterday during the opening ceremony of the Pesticide Control Operators Workshop showcased the first edition of the quarterly publication geared to meet the needs of the Territory’s crop producers.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Chief Agricultural Officer Mrs. Arona Fahie-Forbes said she was excited that the department achieved this milestone especially as they celebrate Pesticides Awareness Week.
“From this newsletter the Department of Agriculture wishes to see a change in behaviour by producers as they cultivate their gardens. The department also wants to promote healthy alternatives to harsh chemicals,” Mrs. Fahie-Forbes said.
Participants at the workshop received copies of the newsletter and throughout the week, copies will be distributed on the mainland and sister islands.
The Department of Agriculture is encouraging persons to be on the safe side when using pesticides as such substances can seriously affect human health and the agricultural industry.
Pesticides Awareness Week is being observed in the Territory and the wider Caribbean from September 27 - October 3 and serves to promote public awareness on the safe handling and management of pesticides.
British Virgin Islands News