Environmental research

For decades the traditional farming method of clearing hillside forests to open up more land for the planting of crops continues to contribute to the loss of forest and ongoing soil erosion resulting in land slippage, landslides and poor water storage. This clearing along with poor agricultural practices simultaneous mining in the area has also resulted in the near loss of Red Peas, Yampie, White Yam, Ginger, Sweet Yams, Cocoes and Blue Mahoe among other important floral species. By moving from traditional open field farming methods to greenhouse production (protective agriculture), only a fraction of the land is needed to provide the same output, reducing the pressure to clear hillsides. These hillsides can then be reclaimed or left to re-establish themselves. In the past there has never been an economic incentive for the farmer to abandon hillside farming. If left unchecked, the continued erosion and slippage of cleared hillsides will continue to degrade the land and its ability to retain water in the upper watersheds as well as throughout Jamaica. As Bauxite mining moves across north Manchester and other areas of central Jamaica disrupting traditional farming communities, the need for better solutions for rehabilitating and making these lands productive is greater than ever. Extension services and education in good agricultural practices, soil conservation and the planting of fruit and lumber trees have recently been unavailable to the local small farmer due to budget cuts since the 1980 s. Resources to provide the tools, information and training needed to help modernise current farming practices have also been widely unavailable. Worsened by the effects of globalization, the small farmer is becoming increasingly marginalised, this situation continues to increase the pressure to expand inefficient, often unprofitable open field farming practices, further impacting the local environment. Main goals Lessen the negative effects of hillside open-field farming, including soil erosion; land slippage as well as species loss and habitat fragmentation. Demonstrate more productive and environmentally friendly farming practices by the application of soil-less agriculture, grow bags, ground cover, hydroponics, implementation of vertical gardens in green houses; the collection and reuse of water and fertilizers. Promote the inclusion of solar panels as a source of clean, renewable energy that simultaneously reduces the levels of greenhouse gas emissions. Facilitate the construction and use of protected agriculture technology. Establish a locally owned capacity to construct greenhouses. Tissue culture will see increase in production and productivity reducing by 30% the land required, pesticide and fertilizer usage as we produce more from the same bit of land. Incorporate organic farming into greenhouse production. Reforestation education

Jamaica