Without significant damage to the tobacco infrastructure or large losses in agricultural areas after the passage of Idalia through western Cuba, Pinar del Río is preparing to start the cold season for various crops in the coming days.
According to Ortelio Rodríguez Perugorría, sub-delegate in the Provincial Delegation of Agriculture, although strong winds were recorded in some towns, the greatest incidences were caused by excess humidity caused by flooding.
He pointed out that, in a preliminary way, until last Wednesday, 100 hectares of various crops were counted with a tendency to total loss. Plantains received the greatest impact, especially those areas that were already about to be harvested in Sandino, Minas de Matahambre and San Luis. Some melon, bean and bean plantations were also affected.
However, he said that in the case of rice, the rains brought more benefit than harm, especially in the municipalities of San Juan y Martínez and San Luis, where it had not been possible to sow due to the drought.
In the case of the tobacco sector, there were no significant damages to the infrastructure and the tunnels where seedbed irrigation had already begun were protected.
Regarding the cold campaign, Rodríguez Perugorría explained that they plan to plant some 43,567 hectares, an average figure according to the current situation, since there are serious difficulties with inputs and resources.
“The technological package is guaranteed for some areas, especially for 2,000 hectares of beans and end-of-year vegetables, especially tomatoes and cabbage. Although this year it was not possible to import seeds of many crops such as onion, for example, we do have guaranteed cucumbers, beans and corn, among others, to complete the campaign.”
He emphasized that in the next few days the contracting process will begin, work is being done with biological means, it is about collecting fertilizer and supporting the farmers with fuel, since this last resource, together with grease and lubricants for machinery, are the most critical aspects to face the fight.
“For this we already plan a permanent check-up, structure by structure, since it is the only way to be able to reach all the producers, find out about their problems and support them in whatever they need and is in our hands.”
Finally, he added that this Saturday there will be an agricultural fair in the markets of the provincial capital with the indication that all the crops that are in danger of being lost can be sold to the population in the different locations.
