Bahamas agricultural research, training and development project; final report

DURATION: July 1, 1973-January 18, 1978. DEVELOPMENTS: Stimulus for this project grew out of the world-wide red meat shortage of the early 1970"s. Since the Bahamas imports approximately 80% of its food supply, this project was established to stimulate the agricultural sector in the hope that agricultural development will create employment and reduce the dollar exchange needed for food purchases. Specific objectives were to: (1) establish a Research and Training Center; (2) develop 16 Pilot Test Farms; (3) conduct research on the best types of grasses and legumes and conduct fruit and vegetable research; (4) study the economic and marketing aspects of livestock enterprises; (5) conduct sociological research; (6) determine the most economical means of bringing land into production; (7) find out the best pastures and feed crops for livestock production; (8) determine the best livestock breeds for the Bahamas; and (9) provide and/or make arrangements for academic training for selected Bahamian candidates. The physical objectives of the Project have all been accomplished, and over 57 research trials were conducted to meet the objectives. These trials are summarized in Appendix A with a section devoted to each major objective. Research indicates that it is possible to grow many crops successfully and that all livestock are doing well. It is difficult to make a profit under current conditions; however, several winter vegetable crops are promising. Special government assistance and some subsidy is needed to encourage family farmers to expand livestock production.