50-year-old Lambert Joseph (third from left) receiving his plaque for Farmer of the Year 2010 – 2011 from BADMC CEO, Andrew Skeete (far right) at the corporation’s headquarters at Fairy Valley, Christ Church. Looking on (from left to right) is Manager of Agricultural Services, Ronnie Brathwhaite; Lambert’s wife, Esther Joseph; Chief Extension Officer (Ag), Jeffrey Nurse and Marketing Officer at the BADMC, Trevor Roberts. (A. Miller/BGIS)

Fifty-year-old Lambert Joseph has copped first prize in the Barbados Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation’s (BADMC) Farmer of the Year Award for 2010 – 2011.

He was presented with his prize yesterday by Chief Executive Officer of the BADMC, Andrew Skeete, at the corporation’s offices at Fairy Valley, Christ Church.

Mr. Skeete stressed that his department remained committed to the advancement of the agricultural sector and he called on all Barbadians to recognise the important contribution the industry made to the island’s growth and economic development.

He also offered congratulations to the Agrofest Committee who conceptualised this year’s competition and to Mr. Joseph for his sterling work and first place finish.

The Spring Hall, St. Lucy, farmer who has been working in the sector for some 16 years said he felt "good" at winning the top prize and offered some advice to persons who wished to get involved in agriculture.

He observed that too many persons adopted the wrong attitude, adding that such endeavour required commitment, diligence and perseverance.

"When it comes to farming, it is a mindset. Never leave home saying the sun is too hot or [that it is difficult] … many people become frustrated. You have to keep going," Mr. Joseph advised.

The Farmer of the Year Competition, which was restarted this year, is open to all local farmers. Extension officers visited farms throughout the island and tabulated points based on good agricultural practices.

These included water conservation, pest and disease control, post harvesting techniques, use of biological chemicals, and weed control.

In addition to receiving a plaque for his achievement, Mr. Joseph also won a dinner for two at Cobblers Cove and will receive some BDS $300 in agricultural products/chemicals from the BADMC.

The latter is part of a pilot project which will be carried out in collaboration with the 4H Movement.

askeete@barbados.gov.bb

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