Official release from the Medicinal Cannabis Authority
Kingstown, St. Vincent, August 15, 2019
The Medicinal Cannabis Authority (MCA) is reminding potential cultivators of medicinal cannabis that cutting down of fruit trees on lands intended for cultivation, is against its developmental agenda.
The MCA says that persons who have already obtained approval or are awaiting approval to legally cultivate medicinal cannabis should take note of this stipulation. With cultivation of medicinal cannabis expected to commence shortly in St. Vincent and the Grenadines the Authority is urging farmers to pay careful attention to land preparation. This is necessary in order to ensure that the county maintains a viable tree crop industry and safeguard its food security and biodiversity.
To this end, the MCA is advising farmers to seek guidance from the Forestry Department’s, Extension Division or the MCA Inspectorate before removing tree crops from their property. The MCA is also encouraging farmers to adhere to guidelines including; use of cutlasses and weed trimmers to clear lands and eliminating the use of pesticides. The Authority says that slash and burn method can also be utilized but in a controlled manner.
The Authority notes that trees on a slope must also be taken into consideration for stabilization, wind breaks, wildlife and soil and water conservation. Fruit trees must be given special consideration before removal, since the industry has been impacted by pests and disease in the past. The MCA is encouraging use of good agricultural practices by making contours, planting grass barriers and constructing terraces.
The MCA is advising farmers that as far as is possible, lands must not be cleared, prior to being inspected by its Inspectors.
