According to the Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI), Hurricane Beryl has caused devastating losses to agricultural assets in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, with up to 80-100% of certain crops being destroyed.
CARDI representatives have been actively meeting with affected farmers on the island to assess the damage. “Preliminary findings reveal between 80% and 100% destruction of crops such as bananas, plantains, coconuts, avocados, and a variety of vegetables,” stated CARDI. “Many of these crops were ready for market, leaving the livelihoods of farmers in jeopardy.”
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Despite the extensive losses, there is a silver lining. CARDI reports that root crops such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, dasheen, and cassava have largely been spared from wind and rain damage. These crops’ marketable storage organs are located underground, making them more resilient to the hurricane’s impacts. “Root crops have been identified as suitable to prepare for, cope with, and recover from climate-related disasters like hurricanes and storms,” CARDI noted.
While assessments are ongoing to determine the full scale and impact of the hurricane on the agricultural sector, it is evident that the loss and damage have been significant. “We at CARDI remain committed to assisting the impacted islands in restoring agricultural production while working with all stakeholders to build resilience,” the organization affirmed.
