Over 3000 acres of lands will soon be available for cultivation as the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) intensifies works within the West Watooka area. The works which commenced over the last year, included the clearing and excavation of drainage and irrigation channels.
The excavation of canals which will allow for year-round access to irrigation water from a huge catchment area known as the ‘swamp’ was given the nod of approval by Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder, yesterday and will begin shortly. These issues were among several which were discussed during an extensive meeting between farmers and the Agriculture Minister who visited the west Watooka farming Community Wednesday.
The meeting was organized by APNU/AFC Member of Parliament, Mr. Audwin Rutherford and the minister was accompanied by technical officers within the Ministry of Agriculture, including CEO of the GLDA Mr. Nigel Cumberbatchm, CEO of the NDIA. Mr. Frederick Flatts, Director of ASDU George Jervis along with other technical officials of the agencies mentioned.
West Watooka is home to some 87 farms producing the majority of fruits and vegetables consumed by Lindeners. Farmers at the meeting were highly receptive of the minister and his team and were open in their references to the challenges they face.
The Agricultural lands in that area is said to be approximately eight feet above the river which serves as a drainage outlet. Irrigation water is sourced from the swamp that lies somewhat uphill from the farms however access is constrained due to clogged or silted up canals.
