Agriculture show focuses on farmers
It’s being promoted as one of the biggest national events of the year, and when the curtain goes up on the 2003 Agriculture and Trade Show in Belmopan, organizers say those who visit the fair grounds will find more than the usual attractions. According to Chief Agriculture Officer Hugh O’Brien, the focus will be squarely on those who deserve it most: the farmers.
Hugh O’Brien, Chief Agriculture Officer
“This year’s show, we’re trying to make it as agricultural as possible. And so we’ve taken on from the success of the various businesses that have processed agricultural products and we’re expanding that to have a full fledges agro-processing display. We’re also taking the rodeo, the rodeo for the first time this year is being organized by the Belize Rodeo Association, and making that bigger and better than ever. We’ve spent some time talking to the commercial farmers in Belize and so we’re having for the first time this year as well, a commercial agricultural zone.”
Rafael Cal, Chairman, N.A.T.S. Committee
“Certainly, that is the focus for this year’s event. What we are trying to make is sure is that the farmers are being highlighted. Because of the magnitude and everything else and the space, we try to put attractions into this thing as well, but the zero and the emphasis is on the farmers generally.”
Patrick Jones
“Since the last show, what has changed in agriculture?”
Hugh O’Brien
“A lot of things has changed since the last show. First of all, the agricultural sector has expanded and the level of production now is around three hundred and forty-one million dollars; it has experienced a five percent growth. And that has been symptomatic of the trends over the last five to ten years.”
In addition to the agro-processing display, crop exhibits and livestock judging, the 2003 edition of the Agriculture and Trade Show will feature a petting zoo and auction where top class bulls and heifers from the Government’s herd at Central Farm will be available for purchase. The show opens on Friday evening and runs through Sunday with the theme: Agriculture: Growing Belize.
