The Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries says it is taking proactive measures to support farmers, fishers, and mining stakeholders in safeguarding their livelihoods in light of the threat of Hurricane Beryl.

As such, the agriculture ministry has fully mobilised a hurricane response team dedicated to preparing for and mitigating the impacts of the impending weather system.

“The ministry has dispatched a team of extension officers to flood-prone areas, including vegetable farming regions in Clarendon and St Ann. These officers are providing essential support and guidance to farmers, helping them to prepare effectively for the hurricane,” a statement from the minister read.

“In anticipation of heavy rainfall and potential flooding, several drains and waterways have already been cleared. Immediate actions are being taken to further clean and enhance drainage systems, secure livestock by moving vulnerable animals to higher ground, protect chicken houses and pens, and harvest mature and other crops where possible,” it continued.

The agriculture ministry has also recommended that agro-park farmers work with the Agro-Invest Corporation to ensure that production zones are prepared to reduce the risk of flooding and damage to crops and infrastructure.

At the same time, the agri minister said it has begun moving essential equipment to strategic locations across all parishes, noting that such equipment will be available to assist farmers with emergency response operations, including clearing debris and blocked drains, and facilitating recovery efforts in the aftermath of the storm.

“All systems are on full alert, and teams have been dispatched from our agencies. Farmers are advised to stay in touch with our officers and offices, including the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA), Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA), the Banana Board, the Coconut Board, the Sugar Industry Authority (SIA), Jamaica Dairy Development Board (JDDB), National Irrigation Commission (NIC), AIC, and the Jamaica 4-H Clubs,” the agriculture ministry stated.

The ministry and its agencies are on standby to use all resources, including specialised equipment such as amphibious excavators, backhoes, tractors, and other vehicles, to aid in transportation and other critical tasks.

“Farmers are also advised to secure all storage facilities and other structures and harvest mature crops where possible to help minimise potential losses. Livestock should be relocated to higher ground, and feed supplies should be secured,” The MOAFM said.

“Greenhouse farmers should remove the plastic coverings where necessary to effectively secure these structures. Staying informed through official updates and maintaining communication with local agricultural extension officers for real-time support and information is crucial,” it added.

The ministry is also reminding fishers to use the VHF system or two-way land mobile radio system, which is fully operational, highlighting channels 24, 25, 26, and 27.

The ministry has lifted and secured floating dock systems and vessels, and all fishers are advised to maintain vigilance in all coastal and fishing communities and immediately evacuate the Morant and Pedro Cays for their safety. Fishers are also reminded to stay in touch with the National Fisheries Authority (NFA).

According to Minister Floyd Green, “The ministry is committed to standing by our sectors during this critical time. We are fully mobilized and prepared to provide the necessary support to ensure the safety and resilience of our entire agriculture, fisheries, and mining communities.”

The mining sector is also advised to urgently execute established protocols regarding safety and security during hurricanes. Communication channels must be fully activated, and the alert and early response systems mobilized in the event of any disaster. This will ensure that our bauxite interests and mining communities remain safe and secure throughout the storm. The Ministry and its leading stakeholders and agencies are on full alert and are standing by to provide assistance where necessary both during and after the storm.