Olivia Benjamin Vidal lost crops and water tanks after a bushfire destroyed 2.5 acres of farmland in Grand Savanne, Salisbury.
Dominica: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Blue and Green Economy has expressed deep concern over the bushfire that occurred on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, in Grand Savanne, Salisbury, which caused farmers to lose many of their agricultural productions and suffer damage of their farm infrastructure.
According to preliminary assessments, approximately two and a half acres of agricultural land was significantly destroyed by the bushfire. The conducted assessment reported that one female farmer, Olivia Benjamin Vidal, was among those most affected by the tragedy.
Vegetable farmer Olivia lost all of her bell pepper, watermelon, pumpkin, and eggplant crops that were grown using a drip irrigation method as well as her 2,500-gallon water storage tanks. This loss has caused major setback to her farming business, with the future remaining uncertain for her.
Following the fire incident, the Agricultural Ministry, through the Extension Division, along with the Director of Agriculture and the West Region Extension Team, visited the affected area, and engaged with the farmers, extending its sympathies for the damages suffered.
The Ministry went on to conduct a detailed assessment of the area where it voiced concern about some activities that could greatly raise the risk of uncontrolled bushfires, drawing attention to unsafe burning agricultural waste and using fire to clear land.
Addressing these risky land management practices with the farmers, it went on to encourage them to embrace safe practices for long-term sustainability.
In light of this incident, the Ministry is urging residents, farm labourers, and landowners to exercise extreme caution when disposing of vegetation and agricultural waste. Farmers are encouraged to adopt safer and more sustainable alternatives, such as composting and mulching, which contribute to improved soil fertility, moisture retention, and nutrient conservation, shared the Ministry.
The Ministry of Agriculture further reiterated its commitment to supporting the farming community, stating that it will continue to “promote safe and sustainable agricultural practices that protect livelihoods, property, and the environment.”