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Goat and Sheep Farmers in Statia Complete Intensive Training Program

A training for goat and sheep farmers took place from June 14 to 18, 2025, organized by the Department of Agriculture and Veterinary Services of Statia in collaboration with the Dutch Caribbean Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries Alliance (DCALFA). The initiative aimed to enhance local livestock practices and improve overall herd health and productivity.

This important capacity-building effort was made possible through the support of DCALFA President Nathalie Maduro, who also serves as Director of the Department of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries in Santa Rosa, Aruba.

The training was led by Santa Rosa’s livestock consultant Edward Berben, who provided participants with hands-on instruction and practical knowledge on key areas of small ruminant care. Topics covered included animal health care such as hoof trimming, body scoring, prenatal and neonatal care, and the use of the FAMACHA system to detect anaemia caused by parasites.

Farmers also learned breeding and selection techniques aimed at improving herd genetics and adapting to environmental conditions. Feeding strategies were another major focus, with special attention given to optimizing animal nutrition and establishing fodder protein banks.

A highlight of the training was the demonstration on creating fodder banks using a hybrid elephant grass planting material, which Mr. Berben brought from Aruba specifically for this purpose.

Ten local farmers successfully completed the program and were awarded certificates of participation. This training falls under the Statia Government’s Strategic Action Plan for Sustainable Agriculture (SAPSA), marking an important step towards strengthening sustainable livestock farming on the island. Animal owners and farmers who have participated in the training will be provided assistance in penning and keeping their animals in a sustainable way. This is the basis of the government’s plan to remove roaming livestock while supporting local food security.