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Home | Agriculture Ministry Invests $1.2 Billion in Bodles Agricultural Research Station Redevelopment
Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining, Hon. Floyd Green, speaking during a press briefing held at the Ministry's Hope Complex Office on January 31.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining has embarked on a groundbreaking investment of $1.2 billion in the redevelopment of the Bodles Agricultural Research Station in St Catherine. This initiative marks a significant step in the ongoing commitment to reinvigorate the agricultural industry through robust research and development efforts.
The investment has equipped Bodles with cutting-edge resources to spearhead agricultural research, with a particular emphasis on dairy farming. Among the notable achievements completed thus far are the establishment of a state-of-the-art dairy milking parlor and revamped infrastructure, including the installation of five expansive greenhouses spanning 100 square feet each. Additionally, the initiative has led to the development of 155 acres of pasture and the implementation of a sophisticated catchment system.
Upgrades to laboratories, including post-harvest and bio-control labs, tissue culture facilities, animal nutrition labs, and a milk lab, have significantly enhanced research capabilities. Moreover, the construction of vital animal infrastructure, such as a goat house and cattle barn, has further bolstered Bodles' facilities.
Modernization efforts have extended to office space and staff facilities, with enhancements made to eight offices. The acquisition of two tractors and implements, alongside vehicles, aims to improve operational efficiency. Strengthened security infrastructure acquired, comprising fencing, surveillance cameras, and access cards, ensures the safety of Bodles' assets.
The introduction of a new herd management system featuring software for record-keeping, security, and tracking, reflects the Ministry's commitment to technological advancement. Additionally, the installation of a brand-new feed pelletizer, valued over $10 million, underscores the dedication to research and development in agricultural practices at Bodles.
“The initiatives that I am most impressed with is the work that we have done at Bodles to redo their water system, to rehabilitate their wells and to put at Bodles, for the first time in its history, a comprehensive irrigation system that covers the entire Bodles property”, Minister Floyd Green stated.
The Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Mining was addressing the media and other stakeholders during a Press Briefing on Wednesday, January 31, 2024.
In addition to these advancements, the Ministry is establishing fodder banks to ensure a consistent supply of livestock feed. These banks play a crucial role in mitigating grain shortages caused by external factors, such as the ongoing conflict in Europe, while simultaneously offering small-scale farmers access to affordable feed solutions.
Furthermore, the Ministry will extend its investment to enhance other research stations across Jamaica, including the Hounslow Research Station in St. Elizabeth, Orange River in St. Mary, and Montpelier in St. James.
