One Mile Agricultural Station
The One Mile Agricultural Station, located in Portsmouth, Dominica, serves as a pivotal hub for agricultural development and innovation on the island. Established through a partnership between the governments of Dominica and the People’s Republic of China, the station is home to the Dominica-China Modern Agricultural Centre, which was officially inaugurated in May 2014.
Key Features of the One Mile Agricultural Station
- Modern Facilities: The station boasts state-of-the-art infrastructure, including a smart greenhouse, a training center for farmers and extension officers, and a tissue culture laboratory. These facilities are designed to enhance agricultural productivity by introducing advanced technologies and providing comprehensive training to local farmers.
- Training and Capacity Building: In November 2024, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) conducted intensive training sessions at the One Mile Agricultural Station. Twenty-seven extension officers from across Dominica participated in workshops focusing on integrated vegetable crop management, climate-resilient farming practices, and sustainable agricultural techniques.
- Equipment and Resource Enhancement: In February 2024, the station received agricultural equipment and materials valued at $750,000 from the People’s Republic of China. The contributions included hydroponic demonstration systems, greenhouse maintenance materials, drip irrigation systems, agricultural tools, seeds, seedling trays, and machinery such as tractors. These resources aim to modernize agricultural production systems and bolster food security on the island.
- Research and Development: The station is actively involved in research initiatives, such as the propagation of new plant varieties through tissue culture. A demonstration plot has been established to observe the growth and development of these plants, contributing to the diversification and resilience of Dominica’s agricultural sector.
The One Mile Agricultural Station continues to play a crucial role in advancing Dominica’s agricultural landscape by fostering innovation, providing essential resources, and supporting the farming community through education and research.