RADA Encourages Farmers to Plan for Drought During Periods of Rain

The Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) is urging farmers to maximise on periods of rainfall as part of drought management efforts.

Livestock Specialist with RADA, Maxine Brown, said that drought planning is ideal during periods of rainfall.

“I find a lot of persons plan for drought, in the drought, and we have to always remember that we need to plan for drought during the rainy period. So, when possible, catch the extra water, cut the extra forages and try to see if you can use it to make silage or use it to make hay,” she told JIS News in an interview.

She also mentioned that at that time, deworming animals and preparing them to be able to manage heat stress, are critical activities.

“With regards to heat, look at your infrastructure. Is it well ventilated? Take a look at your pastures, is there shade for the animals? Ensure you have things in place to prepare for the drought,” she said.

Where possible, persons are also being encouraged to cut up forages, store extra water and improve their conservation practices.

For help on drought management, farmers can reach out to the RADA Office in their parish.