NAREI assisting farmers against caterpillar infestation

Following a surge in caterpillars posing a major threat to crops due to their voracious leaf-feeding habits throughout Guyana, farmers are receiving technical support from the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI).
The Crop Extension Department (CDSS) has implemented several measures in areas such as Craig, Backdam, East Berbice, and the hinterland regions.
This initiative was revealed by NAREI CEO Jagnarine Singh during an interview with Guyana Times on Monday.
According to Singh, these caterpillars are primarily targeting cassava plants.
“At Craig, we are in the fourth round of distributing pesticides. We are currently in the Region Six area. Even in some of the operated areas, we are providing substantial amounts of insecticide,” Singh stated.
He also mentioned that NAREI is incurring significant expenses to supply these resources to the farmers.

“We are giving them a lot of insecticide. Cassava, basically, is one of the crops that is being affected. We are spending thousands and thousands of dollars, maybe millions, when you add up all those expenses.”
Singh pointed out that a training video is being provided to various farmers who have been affected, demonstrating how to use the insecticides effectively. Additionally, NAREI has deployed scientists to assist farmers in the field.
“We are not just giving a blow and then leaving. When it started, we had scientists in the field helping the farmers. NAREI scientists have been out there providing support,” he added.
This comprehensive approach aims to mitigate the damage caused by the caterpillars and support the farmers in protecting their crops.
The impact of climate change on agriculture, mainly through the alteration of weather patterns, poses a significant threat to crop production and increases the prevalence of agricultural pests. Insect pests such as caterpillars from the Lepidoptera order, have shown varying responses to climate change, leading to serious economic losses in crop yields. The current situation in Guyana, where a shift from prolonged dry conditions to rainy weather has led to sporadic but severe caterpillar infestations.

Caterpillars, particularly during their larval stage, pose a major threat to crops due to their voracious leaf-feeding habits. This feeding can strip plants of their foliage quickly, severely disrupting the plants’ photosynthetic abilities and overall health, leading to reduced crop yields.
To address this, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), through its Crop Extension Department (CDSS), has implemented several measures which are as follows NAREI has provided necessary training for farmers on pest control and distributed pesticides to combat the caterpillar infestation.

Demonstration exercises
These exercises aim to equip farmers with practical knowledge and skills in pest management, enhancing their ability to control caterpillar populations effectively.
Technical assistance
Continuous support and technical advice are provided to farmers, especially in the heavily affected areas of Regions One (Barima-Waini); Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Ongoing interventions
NAREI’s Crop Extension Department maintains regular visits to affected areas, ensuring the distribution of pesticides and conducting further demonstration exercises to aid farmers in managing pest infestations.
These adaptive management strategies are crucial in mitigating the impact of climate-induced pest outbreaks on agriculture. By providing resources and education, NAREI supports farmers in maintaining crop health and productivity despite the challenges posed by climate change and its effects on pest dynamics.