Ground Cover Distribution Begins Under UBEC Project to Boost Local Crop Production

The Ministry of Agriculture is ramping up efforts to boost crop yields and cut imports through the UBEC Project’s island-wide, free distribution of ground cover to farmers.

In a continued effort to enhance agricultural productivity and strengthen food security, the Unleashing the Blue Economy of the Caribbean (UBEC) Project, through its Contingent Emergency Response Component (CERC), has commenced the distribution of approximately 1,000 rolls of ground cover to farmers across Saint Lucia, free of charge.

The distribution activity was launched at La Caye, Dennery, targeting farmers who cultivate crops such as cucumber, pumpkin, watermelon, honeydew, cantaloupe, and pineapple. A key criterion for eligibility was the presence of drip irrigation systems on farms, ensuring that the ground cover is used efficiently and effectively.

The main objectives of providing the ground cover are to suppress weed growth and retain soil moisture—two crucial factors in the cultivation of these sensitive crops. These benefits are expected to significantly reduce the cost of production while increasing crop yields. Chief Extension Officer of the Ministry of Agriculture, Eloi Alexis, highlighted the importance of using ground cover to suppress weeds and increase yields.

“So essentially the objective of giving the farmers these ground cover is for it to suppress weed growth and also retain water in the ground. We all know That these crops are very sensitive in terms to when it comes to weeding. So if it’s just planted on the bare ground, going in and weed may interfere especially when these plants starts to flower, it may affect the flower or the fruit sets.”

Farmers receiving the ground cover expressed their satisfaction and gratitude. Many highlighted how the material will ease their weed management burden and help conserve water, especially during dry spells.

“I believe that this is a very good venture because I am one who have used the ground cover for over 25 years, and I can say that’s one of the biggest advantages is the great economic benefits that farmers will get from that. Actually, you eliminate with the use of ground cover, you eliminate One of the biggest cost to farming that is weeding. So you’re virtually eliminate weeding if it is done properly.”

The Ministry of Agriculture anticipates a marked increase in the production of these crops in the coming months. If realized, this could translate into reduced food imports and increased availability of fresh, locally grown produce on the market.

This distribution forms part of Saint Lucia’s broader push to build climate resilience and ensure food sovereignty through smart, targeted agricultural support.