Clive Bryan, Gleaner Writer

The Irrigation Unit of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority (RADA) is constructing six reservoirs in Johns Vale, Clarendon.

This is expected to provide a reliable source of water for some 65 farmers on 80 hectares of land. Head of the unit, Clover La Guerre says two reservoirs have been completed and the others to be done soon.

Recently, RADA has been placing emphasis on improving water access to small farmers by developing several small-scale irrigation systems in the rural areas. In so doing Ms. LaGuerre said it would reduce the farmers' dependence on rain-fed irrigation, increase yields and improve efficiency. This has proven most helpful, especially to farmers with supply contracts with hotels, supermarkets and processors.

"Because of the reliable water supply, farmers consumers have seen marked improvements in quality, appearance and consistency in supplies of produce," the head of the Irrigation Unit says.

The RADAIrrigation Unit, with the assistance of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) under its $16.28 million food security project in Jamaica, recently increased the number of farmers being served by the small-scale irrigation system in Morant, Clarendon from 40 to 51 farmers. These farmers produce mainly vegetables and orchard crops.

Because of the improved access to reliable water supply some farmers have been able to grow a wider variety of crops, as well as, increase the number harvests throughout the year.