The 2008 Agricultural Digest - Ministry of Agriculture and Rural ...

AGRICULTUREUPCLOSEMr. Damien Hinkson is a 25 year old farmer, whohas been engaged for the past eight (8) yearsin the research and development of various typesof aquaponic systems which are specific to theBarbadian environment.Q: What has attracted you to working in agriculture?A: I have always been attracted to nature, so thereforea job in agriculture was a natural progression.Q: What do you see as the future of agriculture in Barbados?A: I see a greater emphasis on the business side ofagriculture, with the sector being characterisedby small/medium-sized greenhouses, aquaponicsgrowing tilapia (fish) and a wide variety of organic fruitsand vegetables being grown.Q: What do people need to know if they want to getinto farming?A: Money continues to be a critical driving force;however, you must love agriculture in order to besuccessful in this line of work.Q: Are there any programmes or activities that you asa farmer would like to see implemented in Barbadosfor agriculture? If so what are they?A: I would like to see a programme where the averagefarmer can come up with solutions to the problemswhich have been identified by the Government,as well as being paid for their contributions.For example, the sugar industry is dying, so whynot put a large set of money up for grabs to the firstperson that builds an efficient ethanol plant, or, in thecase of the Giant African Snail, provide moneyto persons who can build a good snail trap?Q: If you were the Minister of Agriculture for the day,what would be your first mission be to improve the sector?A: The first thing I would do is to pay officials accordingto the amount of work which they do.Q: What do you think is constraining the agriculturalsector from developing in Barbados?A: Many persons, both within and outside of the industryare unwilling to take risks. Additionally, the lazinessof farmers has become a key constraint.ON THE LIGHTER SIDEQ: What do you like to do during your spare time?A: In my spare time I like to do some reading,and spend time with close ones.Q: What is your favourite meal?A: A vine ripened brandy-wine tomatoalways beats anything.Q: What has been your biggest accomplishment to date?A: My biggest accomplishment is the establishmentof the first commercial size aquaponics systemin the country.Q: Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?A: I see myself in the future teaching aquaponicsto the masses in BarbadosVolume 1Agricultural Digest | 200821