Annual Farm Judging Competition Held in St. Kitts

Introduction

(MOA Basseterre, St. Kitts, 11 April 2025):

Several Extension Officers from the Department of Agriculture, St. Kitts, recently took to the fields to conduct on-site inspections of farms across the island as part of the department’s highly anticipated Annual Farm Judging Competition.

The Inspection Process

On Tuesday, 08, and Wednesday, 09 April 2025, Extension Officers responsible for various agricultural districts visited farms to assess and evaluate them under a number of key categories. Representing District 1 was Officer Guy Richardson; District 2 was represented by Leroy Merritt and Mark Adams; and District 3 by Dion Weekes and Myesha Daly.

Competition Categories

The competition, held annually, aims to recognize excellence in crop farming and encourages continuous improvement in farm practices across the island. Farms are evaluated in several categories, including:

Under 5 Acres
Over 5 Acres
Fruit & Tree Crop
Protected Agriculture
Most Produce to Marketing Unit

Evaluation Criteria

In addition, the Extension staff assessed farms on attributes such as cultural practices, sanitation, and plot design, all of which contribute to the final score used to determine the island’s Crop Farmer of the Year.

Several farmers expressed their enthusiasm for being a part of the judging process. Among them were Keithly Armstrong, Leon “Yello” Anthony, Valmon John Williams, Samuel “Sammy” Rose, Edison Isaac, and several others, who proudly showcased their crops and farming techniques.

Outcomes and Impact

The field agents noted the outstanding and increasing levels of local food production, highlighting the diversity of crops being cultivated across St. Kitts. The inspections reflected the hard work and dedication of local farmers, as well as the continued efforts to bolster national food security and reduce import dependence.

Award Announcement

The Crop Farmer of the Year will be selected based on the results of these inspections and announced during the World Food Day week of activities in October 2025.

Conclusion

The Annual Farm Judging Competition is an essential event that promotes excellence in crop farming and recognizes the hard work and dedication of local farmers. The competition not only encourages continuous improvement in farm practices but also contributes to the island’s food security and reduces import dependence.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Annual Farm Judging Competition?

The Annual Farm Judging Competition is an event held by the Department of Agriculture, St. Kitts, to recognize excellence in crop farming and encourage continuous improvement in farm practices.

What categories are evaluated during the competition?

Farms are evaluated in several categories, including Under 5 Acres, Over 5 Acres, Fruit & Tree Crop, Protected Agriculture, and Most Produce to Marketing Unit.

When will the Crop Farmer of the Year be announced?

The Crop Farmer of the Year will be selected based on the results of the inspections and announced during the World Food Day week of activities in October 2025.