THE VIRGIN ISLANDS BEGINNING FARMER TRAINING PROGRAM - ENHANCING OF THE COMPETIVENESS AND SUSTAINABILITY OF BEGINNING VIRGIN ISLANDS FARMERS

Abstract

The Virgin Islands Beginning Farmer Training Program aims to ensure that there will be a sustainable new generation of farmers in the Virgin Islands. The project seeks to improve beginning farmer's income and enhance their potential for success. The target audience is beginning crop and small livestock farmers. These farmers are provided with information, skills, and techniques needed to make informed decisions to enhance the success of their farming enterprise. This is achieved through education and training in production and farm financial management to assist them in acquiring and successfully operating their farming agribusiness. It is expected that, as a result of the project, the target audience will successfully operate their farms while attracting other beginning farmers to operate sustainable agribusiness enterprises. The program provided training to 127 beginning farmers in the Virgin Islands. Special emphasis was placed on demonstrations and hands-on activities which enabled participants to successfully perform necessary farm-related tasks. Of those involved in the training program 60% are currently farming and plan to continue farming and increase the size and efficiency of their farming enterprise. The program has attracted the attention of other persons who are interested in participating in the program and getting involved in farming. The feedback from the persons involved has been very positive.