Resumen
- INTRODUCTION Open field vegetable production in the Caribbean carries substantial challenges. To ensure optimal growth and overcome some of these challenges, high fertilizer and pesticide inputs, as well as frequent irrigation are typically employed. Most farmers throughout the Caribbean believe that more is better. However, with the rising costs of fertilizer, fuel and other inputs and food prices spiralling out of control, this mindset is beginning to change. Common environmental problems that result from vegetable production include soil erosion from water and wind and ground water contamination from nitrates and pesticides. Vegetable producers need to protect the natural resources by reducing their use of harmful inputs. It is no longer acceptable to ignore what happens beyond the fence because of the way we farm. We all carry the responsibility to maintain, even improve our environment. Research has shown that Best Management Practices (BMPs) can reduce harmful impacts yet sustain profitable production. BMPs are a set of recommended structures and practices designed to minimize negative effects of vegetable production on the environment and water resources, while maintaining safety for consumers and farm workers, and economic viability of farms. BMP considerations for vegetable production include soil conservation, water management and irrigation, pest management, pesticide use and storage, nutrient management, organic and inorganic waste management, and energy use and conservation. There is no one system for all farms. The combination of practices appropriate for your farm will depend on individual problems and opportunities. This chapter will help you understand the BMPs in cultural and managerial controls as well as the importance of using a systematic approach to change.