Hurricane Beryl causes damage to southern region agriculture

Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Agriculture has reported that 846 producers in the southern region were affected by Hurricane Beryl, resulting in moderate damage to approximately 13,815 tasks of various crops including plantain, coffee, banana, beans, corn, pigeon peas, cassava, and avocado. The impacted communities are primarily in Barahona, Bahoruco, and Pedernales, with Oviedo and Guancho suffering the most significant damage totaling 410 tasks, while Neiba experienced minor damages.

To address the aftermath, the Ministry swiftly responded by sending Fredy Fernández, head of the Cabinet, to assess the situation firsthand and coordinate relief efforts. Agricultural teams have been deployed to repair irrigation canals, distribute planting materials, and provide necessary supplies. Additional support measures include free land preparation, rehabilitation of inter-plot roads, and re-evaluation of loans with the Agricultural Bank to facilitate flexible payment terms.

Furthermore, the Ministry is purchasing fallen bananas and plantains and other produce for distribution through Inespre to support affected producers. The delegation overseeing these efforts includes regional directors and national officials focused on managing resources and processes to aid recovery in the southern, central, and southwestern zones.