Children tune in to Agrofest

Frequent rain showers over the last few days made for a muddy and mushy field at Queen’s Park as Agrofest 2018 opened its gates Friday.

However, that did not stop the thousands of children who visited the expo that showcases agriculture in Barbados from enjoying the varied exhibits. Tiny tots from nursery up to secondary schoolchildren were the first to view the exhibit, which will be open to the public from Saturday and Sunday.

This year’s exhibition is the 14th and the theme is Youth Farming The Future.

There was much to learn from the displays and interactive sessions about renewable energy, aquaponics, livestock farming and plant care.

The students also got to enjoy cultural expression, cuisine, livestock exhibits, exotic birds, plants, fruits and vegetables. They got to pet rabbits and baby chickens while others stared in fascination at the sheep and cows.

Products and supplies for individuals interested in crop and livestock farming were readily available, including Sustainable Barbados Recycling Centre which had on display a variety of mulches, composts and even animal bedding. 

At the Carib Supply booth, the entire setup for an aquaponics system was on display. General manager Clyde Sobers said through the use of pump systems, people can recycle water. 

“The systems can be decorative pieces for the home, but most importantly you conserve water and grow food at the same time,” he said, while adding that the interest in the systems was growing with at least four people each month looking to purchase the systems.

Meanwhile, container farming was on display at the booth of the Ministry of Agriculture, where agricultural assistant in food crop research, Anthony Nurse, highlighted the use of pots for people with limited space at their homes. His display utilised PVC pipes to make both vertical and horizontal potting systems as well as large pots to grow crops such as radishes, Swiss chard, cabbage, kale and a variety of herbs.

Plant seedlings and potted plants were some of the more popular offerings, which children eagerly purchased.

Students of the Pommarine Hospitality Institute were on hand to give cooking demonstrations, while at the Barbados Tourism Product Authority tent they got to enjoy pedicures and learn how to make non-alcoholic cocktails.

The Diabetes Foundation of Barbados’ Mobile Unit was on hand to do the usual health checks.

Agrofest continues Saturday and Sunday. (LK)