JAS says island could face further shortage of some crops should drought worsen

August 11, 2026

President of the Jamaica Agricultural Society (JAS) Owen Dobson says the island could face a further shortage of some farm produce if the drought worsens.

The island has been experiencing drought conditions, with a water prohibition measure set to take effect next Monday, August 17.

Prohibited activities include: irrigation or watering of gardens, lawns, grounds and farms.

Speaking with IRIE FM News last evening, Mr. Dobson noted that while some parishes are not experiencing the drought, there is still a shortage of crops such as lettuce, cabbage and yam.

He said if the island does not receive significant rainfall soon, other crops such as plantain and banana could also be in short supply.

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Nonetheless, Mr. Dobson said the Government has promised to assist farmers affected by the drought by providing water.

He is hoping that parishes such as Westmoreland and Hanover, which are not experiencing the drought severely, will capitalise on the opportunity to produce more crops.

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