Based on projections for an even bigger Agrofest next year, chief executive officer of the Barbados Agricultural Society James Paul says there may be a need to look at additional accommodation for livestock.
Speaking on the just concluded seventh annual Agrofest at Queen’s Park over the weekend, Paul said it surpassed all expectations this year in terms of the quality of livestock and other exhibits, as well as in attendance.
He said this year had seen a larger number of livestock being showcased and, judging from the interest generated, it may be necessary to utilize the nearby Weymouth B pasture to house animals next year.
Paul revealed that the demand was so high that the organisers ran out of children’s tickets on the final day.
“This year’s patronage was extremely exceptional,” he reported.
“It was mind-boggling to see the number of people that turned up especially on Sunday, so much so that we ran out of children’s tickets and patrons were there late into the night. It was as if they didn’t want to go home.”
According to Paul, Agrofest played a critical part in promoting the important agricultural sector.
He said the massive attendance and quality of produce for viewing and for sale again showed there was a need for Barbadians to get back to home gardening.
“The prices of the agricultural products were very affordable and it proves the point that the way to lower or control prices is not through the lowering of import duties and/or bringing in whatsoever they will, but through encouraging Barbadians to go back to the lands and grow more of what we eat,” he argued.
He said a special event would also be hosted for the Agrofest winners to properly recognise them for their efforts.
“I must stress that we were very impressed with the exhibits this year and you could definitely see the improvement and numbers in the quality of livestock,” he stated.