Perceptions and realities of hydroclimatic change affecting Guyanese rice farming

Abstract

This study explores small farmers' perceptions of changes in climate across Guyana’s rice-producing regions. Qualitative, primary data were collected from a random sample of 189 small farmers, supplemented with 28 key informants, from across Guyana’s five main rice-producing regions. The most prevalent perception related to precipitation among farmers is an increase in rainfall year-round (56%), while for informants, it is an increase in rainfall intensity (81%). When considering the atmospheric conditions of temperature and humidity, farmers (88%) and informants (96%) overwhelmingly perceive warmer conditions. Considering weather and climate volatility, farmers (72%) and informants (82%) most prevalently perceive an increase in excess rainfall/flooding, but secondly, farmers (58%) and informants (71%) communicated a perceived increase in drought. Secondary quantitative hydroclimate data support the perception of a wetter climate, and to some degree, increased hydroclimatic volatility. Precipitation is critical to rice cultivation, and the data sets, combined, signal a wetter Guyanese climate, which has major economic implications for small farmers, the broader rice industry, and the economy of Guyana. However, granularity in farmers’ perceptions suggests a need for more detailed hydroclimate monitoring across Guyana. Thus, strengthening the Guyanese Hydrometeorological Service to support improved spatial and temporal monitoring and collection of primary weather data would be a wise investment in short- and long-term climate mitigation efforts.