How Can Farmers Diversify and Build Resilience Post-Melissa?

Following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa, Andre Anderson, president of the Clarendon branch of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS), is advocating for farmers to adopt more resilient agricultural practices and diversify their crops. With initial losses exceeding $20 billion in the agricultural sector, Anderson highlights the need for innovative solutions to rebuild effectively and sustainably.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In the wake of Hurricane Melissa, which ravaged large sections of Jamaica, farmers in northern Clarendon are facing an uphill battle to rebuild their livelihoods. Communities such as Bog Hole, Aenon Town, and James Hill report total crop and livestock losses, prompting calls for immediate action to restore the sector. The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining has indicated that the damage to agriculture is unprecedented, necessitating a collective effort to implement resilient farming strategies.

Key takeaways

• Hurricane Melissa caused losses exceeding $20 billion in Jamaica's agricultural sector.
• Farmers are urged to diversify crops and adopt resilient practices for recovery.
• Protected agriculture systems require careful management to withstand extreme weather.

Timeline: how we got here

Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica in early October 2023, resulting in extensive damage to agricultural areas. The Ministry of Agriculture began assessing the damage shortly after, revealing losses that surpassed £20 billion. The call for resilient farming practices has intensified in the weeks following the hurricane as communities begin to assess their recovery options.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recent discussions led by Andre Anderson highlight the urgent need for farmers to adopt resilient farming methods, including crop diversification and improved animal welfare practices. This shift is prompted by the overwhelming destruction observed post-hurricane.

What was already established

The importance of crop diversification has long been recognised in agriculture. However, the recent hurricane has underscored the necessity of implementing these practices as a means of safeguarding against future climate-related disasters.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The impact on Jamaica's agricultural sector could have ripple effects on UK consumers, particularly in sectors reliant on imports from Jamaica. Potential shortages or price increases for products like mangoes and ackees may occur as farmers work to rebuild their operations.

Businesses and jobs

For UK businesses that import Jamaican agricultural products, the current situation may lead to supply chain disruptions. Companies may need to explore alternative sourcing or adapt to potential price fluctuations as Jamaican farmers recover.

Policy and regulation

As the Jamaican government assesses the damage and prepares to assist affected farmers, UK policymakers may also need to consider the implications for trade agreements and agricultural policies that involve Jamaican products.

Numbers that matter

• Losses from Hurricane Melissa exceed £20 billion in the agricultural sector.
• Over 40% of Jamaica's layer flock was destroyed, significantly impacting poultry production.
• Many farmers in affected areas have reported total crop losses, with communities like Bog Hole and Aenon Town severely impacted.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Protected agriculture: A farming method that uses structures like greenhouses to provide a controlled environment for crops.
• Crop diversification: The practice of growing a variety of crops to reduce risk and improve resilience against pests and climate events.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Farmers should begin assessing their losses and exploring available government assistance through the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA). Immediate actions to protect remaining crops and livestock should also be prioritised.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Farmers should implement resilient practices such as crop diversification and soil rehabilitation. Access to high-yielding crop varieties and proper animal welfare measures will be crucial in the coming months.

Signals to watch

• Updates on government relief efforts and available support for unregistered farmers.
• Changes in trade policies impacting agricultural imports from Jamaica.
• Indicators of recovery in crop yields and livestock health across affected regions.

Practical guidance

Do

• Invest in high-yielding crop varieties that are better suited to withstand extreme weather.
• Implement soil rehabilitation techniques to restore degraded land.
• Prioritise animal welfare to support livestock recovery post-disaster.

Don’t

• Avoid mono-cropping, which can lead to complete losses during adverse conditions.
• Do not overlook the importance of proper management in protected agriculture systems.

Checklist

• Assess crop and livestock losses thoroughly.
• Apply for government assistance through RADA.
• Develop a crop diversification plan based on resilient varieties.
• Implement soil rehabilitation strategies to enhance productivity.
• Monitor weather patterns and adapt planting schedules accordingly.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The ongoing recovery process for farmers affected by Hurricane Melissa is fraught with uncertainties. The efficiency of government assistance through RADA can be inconsistent, particularly for unregistered farmers. Additionally, the long-term impact of climate change on agricultural practices remains an area of concern. Farmers will need to remain adaptable to changing weather patterns and evolving agricultural challenges.

Bottom line

As Jamaica's agricultural sector begins to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Melissa, the call for resilient farming practices and crop diversification is more critical than ever. Farmers must adopt innovative strategies to not only rebuild but also prepare for future climate-related challenges.

FAQs

What immediate steps should farmers take after Hurricane Melissa?

Farmers should assess their losses, apply for government assistance through RADA, and prioritise protecting remaining crops and livestock.

How can crop diversification help in the long term?

Crop diversification reduces the risk of complete loss from pests, diseases, or extreme weather events, making farms more resilient overall.

What types of crops are recommended for resilience against hurricanes?

Crops such as mango and breadfruit are recommended, as they tend to recover more quickly from severe weather conditions compared to taller varieties like coconuts.