Agriculture in the U.S. Virgin Islands has faced significant challenges, but recent innovations are paving the way for a more sustainable and productive future. The islands’ unique environment and infrastructure issues have necessitated creative solutions to enhance agricultural practices.

Sustainable Practices and Technological Advancements

One of the critical areas of innovation is the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices. Farmers in the USVI have increasingly turned to renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, to offset high electricity costs and reduce their dependence on outdated infrastructure. This shift not only lowers operational costs but also promotes environmental sustainability.

To address water scarcity, many farmers are implementing advanced irrigation techniques and water conservation practices. Rainwater harvesting systems, drip irrigation, and the use of cover crops are becoming more common. These methods help maximize water usage efficiency, crucial in an area with limited freshwater resources​.

Research and Education

The University of the Virgin Islands plays a significant role in advancing agricultural research and education. Through programs like the Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE), UVI collaborates with local farmers to develop and implement best practices in sustainable farming. Research efforts include studying the viability of alternative crops and grazing grasses that are more drought-tolerant and require fewer inputs​.

For instance, agronomists at UVI are exploring the use of teff and Rhodes grass as alternatives to traditional grazing grasses. These species are not only more resilient to drought but also improve soil health and productivity when used in conjunction with leguminous cover crops. Such innovations are essential for maintaining the viability of livestock farming on the islands​​.

Community and Market Development

Local food systems are thriving due to increased support for farmers’ markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) initiatives. These platforms enable farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers, ensuring fresh and locally-grown food is more accessible. This direct market approach also strengthens the local economy and fosters a sense of community.

Moreover, there has been a push to develop value-added products, such as coconut oil, hot sauces, and artisanal soaps, which provide farmers with additional revenue streams. The production of niche crops like dragon fruit is also gaining popularity, catering to both local and tourist markets

Government and Institutional Support

The Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture (VIDA) is instrumental in supporting the agricultural sector through various initiatives. VIDA provides technical assistance, land development support, and financial management services to local farmers. Efforts to enhance veterinary services and animal health regulations also play a crucial role in maintaining the livestock sector​.

Additionally, federal grants and programs like the USDA’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) are being utilized to improve post-harvest food processing and distribution. These programs aim to build a more resilient and sustainable food supply chain in the USVI.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite these advancements, agriculture in the USVI still faces significant hurdles. Land availability and cost remain pressing issues, with much of the agricultural land either government-owned or privately leased. The islands’ caliche soils, characterized by poor drainage and low fertility, also present ongoing challenges for crop production.

Future efforts will likely focus on further integrating sustainable practices, enhancing research and education initiatives, and expanding market opportunities for local farmers. By continuing to innovate and adapt, the agricultural sector in the USVI can overcome these challenges and ensure a prosperous future for the territory’s farmers.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are witnessing a transformative period in agriculture, driven by sustainability and innovation. Through the combined efforts of local farmers, educational institutions, and government support, the islands are developing a resilient and thriving agricultural landscape.

The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) inaugurated two advanced research facilities on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to sustainable agriculture and resilience. The Aquaponics Facility and the Agricultural Experiment Station Livestock Facility were officially opened during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at UVI’s Albert A. Sheen campus on St. Croix.

The event saw attendance from UVI administrators, local elected officials, and a small group of faculty, staff, students, and community members. The ceremony began at the aquaponics facility, where speakers recounted the long path to its reopening following the extensive damage caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017.

Adrienne Williams-Octalien, Director of the Office of Disaster Recovery, emphasized the significance of the project. “This project represents resiliency, food conservation, and sustainability,” she said. “These are the essential steps needed to ensure preparedness for future disasters.”

After the ribbon-cutting, Dr. Henry Awika, Interim Assistant Director and Research Assistant Professor of Horticulture and Aquaculture, led a tour of the aquaponics facility. He explained how the facility will cultivate fish in tanks, with the water being repurposed as a natural fertilizer for plants.

Dr. Awika highlighted the facility’s goals to produce research that benefits local communities. “We are working on lowering the cost of feed by exploring locally available, plant-based materials for the fish diet and reducing energy costs,” he said. He added that in anticipation of an “above-normal” hurricane season, his team is developing structures that can be quickly dismantled and rebuilt to protect farm equipment from storm damage.

The event continued with the introduction of the Small Ruminant Livestock Facility, also known as the sheep farm. Alana Jackson, a former UVI student researcher, discussed the practical applications of their research. “We aim to apply our research to the community by reaching out to farmers and providing sheep for breeding and meat,” she stated.

Local entrepreneur Vicente Cotto, who attended the event, expressed his enthusiasm for the new facilities. “Starting something new comes with many challenges, but these research facilities help smooth out those issues so that farmers like us don’t have to face the same obstacles,” he said. Mr. Cotto described UVI’s new facilities and other opportunities as “hidden gems” that more people should utilize.

The unveiling of these cutting-edge research facilities underscores UVI’s dedication to advancing agricultural research and supporting local farmers in the Virgin Islands.

Two prominent farmers from St. Croix have criticized the Virgin Islands Department of Agriculture for what they see as the slow progress in developing the agriculture sector.

Yvette and Dale Brown voiced their concerns during testimony before the Committee on Budget, Appropriations, and Finance on Tuesday. They sought the committee’s support to extend their lease on government-owned property where their farm is situated.

Yvette Brown, who runs Sejah Farm as a full-time venture, stated that “agriculture in the Virgin Islands has gained a poor reputation for income generation and lacks significant social and economic contributions.” She attributed this to the local government’s failure to regulate and support the agricultural industry effectively. Brown emphasized that the sector has been “without significant government support for over 59 years.”

The absence of support has left “farmers with no choice but to operate in survival mode,” she said. Brown called on the Department of Agriculture to actively contribute to improving the sector’s reputation, describing the change as “timely and vital.” She outlined the benefits of such a turnaround, including improved local food availability and accessibility, attracting markets, increasing farmers’ income, and developing new market opportunities. These changes, she argued, would significantly bolster the local food system and food security. A report by the Iowa State University Food Systems Team highlighted the USVI’s “overwhelmingly high food import rate” of 95 to 99 percent.

Brown warned that without regular food shipments, “we do not have the sustenance to maintain ourselves.” She advocated for promoting and supporting local agriculture to build a robust, resilient food economy that benefits everyone in the territory. She also pointed out that agriculture could create new employment opportunities for Virgin Islanders.

While Sejah Farms remains committed to revitalizing the territory’s agricultural sector, Dale Brown expressed doubt about the Department of Agriculture’s capability to meet this challenge. He cited the recent closure of the St. Croix abattoir and the lack of a “vetted veterinarian,” which he said disadvantages livestock farmers.

Lawmakers expressed agreement with the Browns’ concerns. Senator Javan James, chair of the Committee on Economic Development and Agriculture, announced plans to hold a committee meeting with the Department of Agriculture soon. The last scheduled meeting was canceled because Commissioner Louis Petersen could not attend. “They got away, but this time, they better come ready,” warned Sen. James.

Senator Donna Frett-Gregory expressed frustration with the slow implementation of Act 8716, which established the Local Food and Farm Council. “There are 11 members of that council. Six are government officials and five are appointed. Not one person has come down to the Legislature for approval.” Sympathizing with the Browns, she agreed that “there is no support for the work that they’re doing.”

Frett-Gregory highlighted the potential of St. Croix’s extensive farmland, insisting that the lack of priority given to the agriculture industry is inexcusable.